Every human experiences hardships. And there are those days, which are heavier than others, and there are periods in life when everything seems overwhelming. But as Muslims, we have been given a beautiful substitute to cope with hardship – making dua. The power of calling on Allah during our worst times cannot be emphasized.
Powerful Duas for Difficult Times
1. Dua of Prophet Yunus (AS)
Arabic:
لَا إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَانَكَ إِنِّي كُنتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِينَ
ترجمہ:
“تیرے سوا کوئی معبود نہیں، تُو پاک ہے، بے شک میں ہی ظالموں میں سے ہوں۔
Translation:
“La ilaha illa anta, Subhanaka inni kuntu minaz-zalimeen.”
English Translation:
“There is no god but You, Glory be to You! I have certainly been among the wrongdoers.” — (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:87)
This is the dua Prophet Yunus (AS) recited in the belly of the whale. It’s a powerful dua when you feel trapped or hopeless.
2. Dua for Patience and Strength
Arabic:
رَبِّ اشْرَحْ لِي صَدْرِي
ترجمہ:
“اے میرے رب! میرے لیے میرا سینہ کھول دے (میرا دل مطمئن کر دے)
Translation:
“Rabbi ishrah li sadri.”
English Translation:
“My Lord, expand for me my chest (with calmness).” — (Surah Taha 20:25)
This short yet beautiful dua was made by Prophet Musa (AS). It’s perfect when you feel anxious, stressed, or uncertain about the future.
3. Dua for Relief from Worry
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ
ترجمہ:
“اے اللہ! میں تجھ سے فکرمندی اور غم سے پناہ مانگتا ہوں۔
Translation:
“Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazan.”
English Translation:
“O Allah, I seek refuge in You from worry and grief.”
This dua from the Hadith shows how the Prophet ﷺ turned to Allah to protect himself from negative emotions. It’s a great daily dua for those struggling emotionally.
Why We Face Difficult Times
Difficult times are part of life. Allah puts us to the test to clean our hearts, to make our faith stronger, and to make us turn to Him. Allah says in the Quran:
“Do the people think that they will be left to say, ‘We believe,’ and they will not be tested?” — (Surah Al-Ankabut 29:2)
The shape of the tests can be different – health problems, financial issues, family stress, emotional pain, or even loss. When this happens, our hearts are most likely shattered, but when we offer ourselves to Allah through sincere prayer, our relationship with him is strengthened.
The Power of Dua in Tough Times
Dua is more than just a request. It is a worship and a sign of faith. When we bless during a difficult situation, we are showing our faith that only Allah can remove our misery and ease our burden.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Dua is the essence of worship.”
— (Tirmidhi)
Even when the answer doesn’t come immediately, dua brings comfort and peace to the heart. It reminds us that Allah is always listening.
What to Do Besides Making Dua
Although dua is our spiritual breath, Islam does not discourage action either. The following are a few steps that you can use to get through the bad times:
1. Pray with Focus
Make your five prayers a day sincerely. Speak to Allah in sujood (prostration) – that is as near as you can get to him.
2. Read the Quran Daily
Even a few verses a day bring light and healing. Allah says:
“Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”
— (Surah Ar-Ra’d 13:28)
3. Give Charity (Sadaqah)
When you give to the needy, your heart is filled with peace, and calamities are eliminated. It can be any little gesture.
4. Be Patient and Positive
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Amazing is the affair of the believer, for everything is good for him…”
— (Muslim)
Conclusion:
Having difficulties is a part of this life, yet it is also true that Allah is merciful. Whenever you want to quit, just remember that even the prophets had their great test, and they turned to Allah with dua.
Never think that your problems are too big. The one who knows you knows what you are experiencing. Raise your hands in prayer, soften your heart, and strengthen your faith.
