In Islam, dua holds a special place as a direct way to connect with Allah. It’s like having a personal conversation with the Creator who listens to every worry, big or small. When someone is sick, turning to dua for curing sickness becomes even more meaningful. Illness is a test, and during such times, heartfelt supplications bring hope and comfort.
Al-Quran
Arabic:
وَإِذَا مَرِضۡتُ فَهُوَ يَشۡفِينِ“Wa iza maridtu fahuwa yashfeen.”
English Translation:
“And when I am ill, it is He who cures me.”Urdu Translation:
اور جب میں بیمار ہوتا ہوں تو وہی مجھے شفا دیتا ہے۔
Reference: Surah Ash-Shu’ara (26:80)
This verse highlights that illnesses are part of human life, and healing is from Allah alone.
These words, spoken by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), reassure us that ultimate healing comes only from Allah. No matter how advanced medicine is, it works only by His will.
AL-Hadith
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
Arabic:
مَا يُصِيبُ الْمُؤْمِنَ مِنْ نَصَبٍ وَلَا وَصَبٍ وَلَا هَمٍّ وَلَا حَزَنٍ وَلَا أَذًى وَلَا غَمٍّ، حَتَّى الشَّوْكَةِ يُشَاكُهَا، إِلَّا كَفَّرَ اللَّهُ بِهَا مِنْ خَطَايَاهُ“Ma yusibu al-mu’mina min nasabin wa la wasabin wa la hammin wa la hazanin wa la adhan wa la ghammin hatta ash-shawkatu yushaakuha illa kaffara Allahu biha min khatayah.”
English Translation:
“No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a believer, even a thorn that pricks him, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for it.”Urdu Translation:
مومن کو جو بھی تکلیف پہنچتی ہے، خواہ تھکاوٹ ہو، بیماری ہو، غم ہو، یا کوئی اور دکھ، یہاں تک کہ کانٹا بھی چبھے، اس سے اللہ اس کے گناہوں کو معاف کرتا ہے۔
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5641; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2573
Many people often forget how dua can be a healing tool alongside medicine. Medicine treats the body, but dua touches the soul. When I had a loved one in the hospital, I realized how important it was to combine both. While doctors worked hard, I prayed consistently, asking Allah for ease and recovery. That balance between spiritual effort and medical care gave me peace, no matter what the outcome was.
Seeking Allah’s help during sickness reminds us that He is the ultimate healer. The Quran refers to Allah as Al-Shafi, the One who cures. Reciting duas like “O Allah, the Lord of mankind, remove the harm and heal, You are the Healer” instills hope and calms the heart. It’s not just about saying the words; it’s about believing in Allah’s mercy and wisdom.
Illness can feel isolating, but dua turns loneliness into connection. It’s like having a lifeline to the One who understands pain better than anyone else. For children and adults alike, making dua teaches patience and trust. For example, when my younger sibling fell ill, we would sit together and recite simple duas. It was a gentle way to introduce the idea that Allah is always there for us, ready to listen.
It’s important to remember that dua is a process, not a magic spell. Sometimes, answers come quickly, and other times, they require patience. But no dua is ever wasted. If healing doesn’t come immediately, Allah might be easing pain in ways we don’t see or understand. I’ve learned this firsthand when praying for a long time about a recurring health issue. While the illness didn’t vanish, I found unexpected strength to cope, which was its own form of healing.
In times of sickness, dua brings light to dark moments. It combines beautifully with medicine to provide holistic care for the body and soul. Making dua is not just about asking for healing but also building a deeper connection with Allah, which remains a source of strength forever.
Key Dua for Curing Sickness
In Islam, dua is a beautiful way to seek Allah’s help, especially during sickness. The Quran and Hadith provide us with special prayers that bring healing and peace. These duas are not just words but a source of comfort for the heart and soul.
1- Prophet Muhammad’s Dua for Shifa
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made the following supplication for the sick:
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ النَّاسِ، أَذْهِبِ الْبَأْسَ، اشْفِ أَنْتَ الشَّافِي، لاَ شِفَاءَ إِلاَّ شِفَاؤُكَ، شِفَاءً لاَ يُغَادِرُ سَقَمًا“Allahumma Rabban-nas, adhhibil-ba’sa, ishfi Antash-Shafi, la shifa’a illa shifa’uk, shifa’an la yughadiru saqaman.”
English Translation:
“O Allah, Lord of the people, remove the harm and heal. You are the Healer; there is no healing but Yours, a healing that leaves no trace of sickness.”Urdu Translation:
اے اللہ! لوگوں کے رب، تکلیف دور فرما اور شفا عطا فرما۔ تو ہی شفا دینے والا ہے، تیرے علاوہ کوئی شفا نہیں۔ ایسی شفا عطا فرما جو بیماری کو ختم کر دے۔
This dua is a complete prayer asking Allah for complete and lasting recovery. It reminds us that true healing comes only from Allah.
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5742; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2191
2- Sunnah Practice of Ruqyah
Abu Anzar narrated from Abu Saeed (may Allah be pleased with him) that Gabriel (peace be upon him) came to the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) and said: O Muhammad (peace be upon him) have you fallen ill? The Holy Prophet said: Yes. Gabriel (peace be upon him) said:
Arabic:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَرْقِيكَ، مِنْ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ يُؤْذِيكَ، مِنْ شَرِّ كُلِّ نَفْسٍ أَوْ عَيْنٍ حَاسِدٍ، اللَّهُ يَشْفِيكَ، بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَرْقِيكَBismillahi arqeek, min kulli shay’in yu’dheek, min sharri kulli nafsin aw ‘aynin hasid, Allahu yashfeek, Bismillahi arqeek.
English Translation:
“In the name of Allah, I recite over you to ward off everything that harms you, from the evil of every soul or envious eye. May Allah heal you. In the name of Allah, I recite over you.”Urdu Translation:
اللہ کے نام سے، میں تم پر دم کرتا ہوں تاکہ ہر وہ چیز جو تمہیں نقصان دے، دور ہو جائے۔ ہر نفس یا حسد کرنے والی آنکھ کے شر سے۔ اللہ تمہیں شفا دے۔ اللہ کے نام سے، میں تم پر دم کرتا ہوں۔
Reference: Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2186
3- Dua for Pain Relief
Arabic:
أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ وَقُدْرَتِهِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا أَجِدُ وَأُحَاذِرُA’udhu billahi wa qudratihi min sharri ma ajidu wa uhadhiru.
English Translation:
“I seek refuge in Allah and in His Power from the evil of what I feel and fear.”Urdu Translation:
میں اللہ اور اس کی قدرت سے پناہ مانگتا ہوں اس برائی سے جو میں محسوس کرتا ہوں اور جس سے ڈرتا ہوں
Reference: Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2202
4- Dua for Illness
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِ عَبْدَكَ يَنْكَأْ لَكَ عَدُوًّا، أَوْ يَمْشِي لَكَ إِلَى صَلَاةٍAllahumma ishfi ‘abdaka yanka’ laka ‘aduwwan, aw yamshi laka ila salat.
English Translation:
“O Allah, heal Your servant so that he may overcome an enemy or walk for Your sake to prayer.”Urdu Translation:
اے اللہ! اپنے بندے کو شفا عطا فرما تاکہ وہ تیرے دشمن پر غالب آ سکے یا تیری خاطر نماز کے لیے چل سکے
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5659
Reciting duas like these is not just about asking for health; it’s also about building a connection with Allah.
For young readers, these duas are easy to learn and practice. Children can start by memorizing small portions with their parents’ help. Saying these duas regularly builds a habit of turning to Allah in every situation, big or small.
The significance of these duas lies in their meanings. They remind us that Allah is Al-Shafi, the Ultimate Healer, and that every illness comes with His wisdom.
By reciting these prayers sincerely, we show our reliance on Allah and gain spiritual strength even in challenging times. It’s not just about recovery but also about feeling closer to the One who knows us best.
Stories of Healing Through Dua
There are countless stories from Islamic history and teachings that inspire us to turn to Allah during difficult times. These stories show how dua not only brings healing but also strengthens faith and patience.
1- Prophet Ayyub (Job) and His Illness
Prophet Ayyub (AS) was one of the most patient and steadfast prophets. Allah blessed him with immense wealth, a large family, and good health. However, as a test of his faith, he was afflicted with severe illness, which left him bedridden for years. He also lost his wealth and children. Despite this, Ayyub (AS) never complained and remained grateful to Allah.
When his trial had fulfilled its purpose, Prophet Ayyub (AS) prayed to Allah:
Arabic:
رَبِّ إِنِّي مَسَّنِيَ ٱلضُّرُّ وَأَنتَ أَرۡحَمُ ٱلرَّٲحِمِينَRabbi inni massaniya ad-durru wa anta arhamur-raahimeen.
English Translation:
“Indeed, adversity has touched me, and You are the Most Merciful of the merciful.”
(Surah Al-Anbiya: 21:83)Urdu Translation:
“اے میرے رب! مجھے تکلیف پہنچی ہے اور تو سب رحم کرنے والوں سے زیادہ رحم کرنے والا ہے۔”
In response, Allah commanded him to strike the ground with his foot. Water gushed forth, and Allah instructed him to bathe and drink from it. This miraculously restored his health and wealth.
Reference: Surah Sad (38:41-44)
This story teaches patience, gratitude, and unwavering trust in Allah during trials. Healing comes only from Allah, often after perseverance and prayer.
2- Healing of Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (RA)
Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (RA), one of the prominent Companions, fell gravely ill during the Farewell Pilgrimage. Fearing that he might die in Makkah, Sa’d expressed his concern to the Prophet (PBUH).
The Prophet (PBUH) visited him, placed his hand on Sa’d’s chest, and made the following dua:
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِ سَعْدًا، اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِ سَعْدًا، اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِ سَعْدًاAllahumma ishfi Sa’dan, Allahumma ishfi Sa’dan, Allahumma ishfi Sa’dan.
English Translation:
“O Allah, heal Sa’d. O Allah, heal Sa’d. O Allah, heal Sa’d.”Sa’d (RA) recovered fully and went on to live a long and productive life.
Urdu Translation:
“اے اللہ! سعد کو شفا دے، اے اللہ! سعد کو شفا دے، اے اللہ! سعد کو شفا دے۔”
Reference: Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1628
3- Healing of a Companion with an Eye Injury
During the Battle of Khaybar, a Companion named Qatadah ibn al-Nu’man (RA) suffered a severe injury where his eye was dislodged. He came to the Prophet (PBUH) seeking help.
The Prophet (PBUH) placed Qatadah’s eye back in its socket and prayed for its healing:
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِهِAllahumma ishfih.
English Translation:
“O Allah, heal him.”Urdu Translation:
“اے اللہ! اسے شفا عطا فرما۔”
His eye healed immediately and became even better than it had been before.
Reference: Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4078
4- Healing of a Young Boy with Epilepsy
A woman came to the Prophet (PBUH) with her son, who suffered from seizures. She asked for the Prophet’s intercession.
The Prophet (PBUH) made dua for ill boy and passed his blessed hands over him.
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِهِ وَعَافِهِAllahumma ishfih wa ‘afih.
English Translation:
“O Allah, heal him and grant him well-being.”Urdu Translation:
“اے اللہ! اسے شفا عطا فرما اور اسے عافیت نصیب فرما۔”
The boy was cured, and the woman was immensely grateful.
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5741
5- Healing of Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA)
During the Battle of Khaybar, Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) was suffering from a severe eye infection, which caused him great pain. The Prophet (PBUH) heard about this and called him forward.
The Prophet (PBUH) applied his saliva to Ali’s eyes and prayed:
Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ اشْفِهِ وَقَوِّهِAllahumma ishfih wa qawwih.
English Translation:
“O Allah, heal him and strengthen him.”Urdu Translation:
“اے اللہ! اسے شفا عطا فرما اور اسے قوت عطا فرما۔”
Ali’s eyes were healed instantly, and he went on to lead the Muslim army to victory.
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3701; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2406
6- Healing through Ruqyah by a Companion
Once, a group of Companions came across a tribal leader who had been bitten by a scorpion. The leader’s people asked the Companions if they knew any cure. A Companion recited most powrful dua for shifa Surah Al-Fatihah over the leader, and he was healed.
When they informed the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about this, he approved the act and said:
“How did you know that Surah Al-Fatihah is a Ruqyah?”
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5736
This incident shows the spiritual power of Quranic recitation for healing, as well as the Prophet’s affirmation of using specific verses for curing illnesses.
The Quran is full of reminders about Allah’s power to heal. One verse says:
“And when I am ill, it is He who cures me.” (Surah Ash-Shu’ara, 26:80)
These stories and examples highlight that making dua during sickness is not just about seeking physical recovery. It’s also a way to grow closer to Allah, strengthen your faith, and find peace in His plans. Whether it’s the patience of Prophet Ayyub, the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, and their companions, they all point to Allah’s unmatched power and mercy in granting healing to those who sincerely ask for it.
Prayers for Others and Community Support
In Islam, making dua for others is a beautiful act of kindness and a way to bring blessings into everyone’s life. When someone is sick, praying for their recovery shows love, care, and trust in Allah’s mercy.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to make dua for others, teaching us that angels pray for the same blessings for the person who makes the dua. This act of selflessness connects us not only with Allah but also with the people around us.
One of the best ways to support someone who is unwell is to visit them and offer comfort. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “When a Muslim visits his sick brother, he remains in the garden of Paradise until he returns.” (Sahih Muslim) Visiting the sick is not just a duty but a way to bring peace to their heart. Even a simple smile or a kind word can lift their spirits and remind them that they are not alone in their struggle.
1- Dua for Visiting Sick
Arabic:
لَا بَأْسَ طَهُورٌ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُLa ba’sa tahoorun in shaa’ Allah.
English Translation:
“No harm; it will be a purification, Insha’Allah.”Urdu Translation:
کوئی حرج نہیں، یہ ان شاء اللہ پاکیزگی کا ذریعہ ہوگا۔
Reference: Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5656; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2218
2- Dua for Someone’s Health
Arabic:
أَسْأَلُ اللَّهَ الْعَظِيمَ رَبَّ الْعَرْشِ الْعَظِيمِ أَنْ يَشْفِيَكَ (سَبْعَ مَرَّاتٍ)As’alu Allahal-‘Azim, Rabbal-‘Arshil-‘Azim, an yashfiyaka (sab’a marrat).
English Translation:
“I ask Allah the Great, Lord of the Mighty Throne, to heal you.” (Recite seven times)Urdu Translation:
میں عظیم اللہ سے، عظیم عرش کے رب سے دعا کرتا ہوں کہ وہ آپ کو شفا عطا فرمائے۔ (سات مرتبہ پڑھیں)
Reference: Abu Dawood, Hadith 3106; Jami’ at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2083
The rewards for praying for others are immense. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us that when we make dua for someone in their absence, angels say, “Ameen, and for you the same.” This shows how Allah blesses both the one praying and the one being prayed for. It’s a reminder that acts of kindness, like dua and visiting the sick, bring rewards that go beyond what we can see.
5. Complementing Dua with Actions
In Islam, dua is a powerful way to seek help from Allah during sickness, but it’s also important to pair it with actions that align with His wisdom. Allah has provided us with knowledge and resources to care for our health, and using them shows our trust in His guidance.
Seeking medical treatment is a part of Allah’s plan for healing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged people to find cures for illnesses, reminding us that Allah has created a remedy for every disease. Visiting a doctor, taking prescribed medicines, or following a treatment plan are not separate from faith—they are ways of acting upon Allah’s guidance.
In addition to medical care, Islam teaches us about Sunnah practices that promote health and healing. Honey, mentioned in the Quran, is known for its healing properties. A spoonful of pure honey not only strengthens the body but also reminds us of Allah’s blessings in nature. Black seed, described by the Prophet (peace be upon him) as a cure for everything except death, is another amazing remedy. Adding it to your diet can support your health in many ways.
Zamzam water is another special gift from Allah. It has been described as a source of healing and is cherished by Muslims worldwide. Drinking Zamzam water while making dua for recovery can be a beautiful way to combine spiritual and physical healing.
Alongside dua and these remedies, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. Eating nutritious food, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest are ways to honor the body Allah has given us. Regular exercise also helps keep the body strong, making it easier to recover when we do fall sick. I’ve seen how simple habits, like eating fruits daily or taking a short walk, can make a big difference in overall health.
Taking care of mental health is equally important. Stress and anxiety can weaken the body, so practicing patience and gratitude through dua can keep the heart at ease.
By combining dua with action, we acknowledge that Allah’s help comes in many forms—through prayers, people, and resources. This balanced approach strengthens our faith and supports our recovery, making the journey through sickness a meaningful and spiritually uplifting experience.
Etiquettes of Making Dua for Sickness
When we make dua for curing sickness, it’s important to follow certain etiquettes that make our prayers more meaningful and effective. These etiquettes remind us of our relationship with Allah and help us stay connected to Him during times of difficulty.
The first step is to purify your intention. When making dua, focus on sincerely asking for Allah’s help, not just for yourself but also for those around you. Remember that dua is a way to strengthen your faith, so trust in Allah’s mercy fully. The Quran reminds us that Allah is Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) and Ar-Rahim (The Most Compassionate), always ready to respond to those who call upon Him. I’ve seen this trust work wonders during my own struggles, as it gave me peace even before seeing results.
Consistency is another important aspect of dua. It’s not about making a quick prayer once and forgetting it but staying committed. Repeat your dua daily, even if healing takes time. Pairing dua with good deeds, like giving charity or helping someone in need, can make your prayer even more special. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us that acts of kindness bring blessings, and combining them with dua shows sincerity in our efforts.
Gratitude and patience are essential when making dua during sickness. Being thankful to Allah, even when facing difficulties, helps us see the blessings we still have.
Patience is equally important. Healing doesn’t always come immediately, but that doesn’t mean your dua isn’t being answered. Sometimes, Allah delays healing to give us something better or to teach us valuable lessons.
Another beautiful etiquette of dua is to pray not only for yourself but for others who are sick. This act of selflessness brings extra blessings.
Finally, have faith that Allah knows what is best for you. Making dua with hope, gratitude, and trust makes the process itself a form of healing. It’s a reminder that while medicine heals the body, dua nourishes the heart and soul, creating a sense of peace that carries you through even the hardest times.
Final Thoughts
In times of illness, dua serves as a powerful means of seeking both physical and spiritual healing, reinforcing our faith in Allah’s mercy and wisdom. The Quran and Hadith remind us that every hardship is an opportunity to grow closer to Allah, and sincere supplications bring not only recovery but also inner peace.
Whether reciting prophetic duas, practicing ruqyah, or drawing inspiration from stories of healing, the essence of dua lies in trust and patience.
By combining medical treatment with heartfelt prayers, we embrace a holistic approach to healing, knowing that ultimate shifa (cure) comes only from Al-Shafi, the Supreme Healer.
Daily Life Duas/Prayer
