Dua, or supplication, represents one of the most direct and personal forms of worship in Islam, establishing a powerful connection between a person and their Creator. This act of calling upon God is a fundamental expression of faith, where a believer acknowledges their dependence on the Almighty. In times of distress, such as when experiencing sickness, turning to supplication becomes an act of worship (Ibadah) that demonstrates complete trust in divine mercy and power. Dua is a spiritual tool for seeking comfort, strength, and healing, reinforcing the belief that God is the ultimate source of all relief.
Core Supplications for Personal Illness
A person experiencing sickness is encouraged to recite specific, authentic supplications taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for their own healing. One encompassing Dua involves placing the right hand on the area of pain and reciting: “Allāhumma Rabb an-nās, adhhib al-baʾs, ishfi anta ash-Shāfī, lā shifāʾa illā shifāʾuk, shifāʾan lā yughadiru saqaman.”. This translates to, “O Allah, Lord of mankind, remove the illness and cure, for You are the Healer; there is no healing but Your healing, a healing that leaves no disease.”. This prayer acknowledges that true recovery comes only from God.
Another powerful supplication involves reciting a sequence of words directly over the painful area. The sick person should first say “Bismillah” (In the Name of Allah) three times, and then repeat a longer supplication seven times. This recitation is: “A’udhu bi’izzatillahi wa qudratihi min sharri ma ajidu wa ‘uhadhiru.”. The meaning of this phrase is, “I seek refuge with Allah and with His Power from the evil that afflicts me and that which I apprehend.”. The physical action combined with the verbal supplication focuses the intention toward seeking refuge and cure through divine power.
Supplications for Visiting and Healing Others
Visiting a sick person is a communal obligation in Islam, known as ’Iyadah, and carries great spiritual reward. When making this visit, it is recommended to offer a simple, comforting phrase, such as “Lā baʾsa ṭahūrun in shāʾ Allāh.”. This statement translates to, “Do not worry, it will be a purification (of sins), if Allah wills,” providing a positive, spiritual perspective on the illness. This reassurance shifts the patient’s focus from suffering to a spiritual benefit.
The visitor is also specifically advised to make a powerful supplication for the patient’s recovery, reciting it seven times in total. The Dua is: “As’alullāha ‘l-`Aẓīma Rabba ‘l-`Arshil-`Aẓīmi an yashfiyak.”. This means, “I ask Allah who is the Lofty, Lord of the Mighty Throne, to cure you.”. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that if this supplication is recited seven times for a sick person who is not near death, God will certainly heal them from that sickness.
The Proper Manner of Making Supplication
The effectiveness of a supplication is often enhanced by observing certain recommended practices, known as the Adab (etiquette) of Dua. While supplication can be made at any time and in any state, adopting a state of ritual purity by performing ablution (Wudu) is encouraged. Facing the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca (Qibla) is also a praiseworthy practice, though not mandatory, that helps to focus the heart and mind during the act of worship.
It is customary to begin the Dua by praising God (Hamd) and invoking blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) (Salawat). The Prophet advised starting with this glorification before presenting the request. Raising one’s hands is a physical Sunnah that signifies humility and a gesture of asking from the Divine. Approaching the Dua with sincerity, humility, and a firm conviction (yaqīn) that God will answer is considered foundational for sincere prayer.
Understanding Illness in Islamic Context
In the Islamic worldview, experiencing illness is not seen as mere misfortune but as an experience with spiritual significance. Illness is viewed as a form of divine testing (Ibtila) that allows a believer to demonstrate their patience and reliance on God. This trial is intended to strengthen one’s faith and draw the individual closer to their Creator.
One comforting theological concept is that sickness serves as an expiation of sins (Kaffarah). Every discomfort, even the simple prick of a thorn, is believed to remove some of the believer’s misdeeds. The spiritual reward for enduring this hardship with patience (Sabr) is substantial. This perspective encourages the sick to maintain hope and patience alongside their prayers and medical treatment.