Supplication (Dua) in Islam is considered a true form of worship, where the servant calls upon Allah for care and assistance, expressing need and humility before Him. It is used to fulfill needs and relieve distress, forming an essential part of a Muslim’s life, much like remembrance (dhikr) is to the heart as water is to fish.

The Virtue of Dua in the Qur’an and Sunnah

Allah commands His servants to make supplication, saying:

{“And your Lord says, ‘Call upon Me; I will respond to you.’”} [Ghafir: 60]

And:

{“And when My servants ask you concerning Me—indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.”} [Al-Baqarah: 186]

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Dua is worship.”

Allah loves supplication, as the Prophet ﷺ stated: “Nothing is more honored by Allah than dua.” Supplication can even reverse decreed matters, as in: “No decree is repelled except by dua.” Its benefits are guaranteed: either immediate in this world, or preservation for the Hereafter, or the removal of affliction. It prevents calamities before or after their occurrence, uplifts the heart, strengthens for victory, and serves as a refuge for the oppressed.

The Psychological Impact of Dua

Regular supplication calms the mind and heart, alleviating anxiety and stress, as one pours out worries and feels accompanied. It builds self-confidence and trust in Allah’s plan, bringing hope and optimism. Recitation of the Qur’an alongside dua reduces worry and instills tranquility, especially when combined with reflection.

{“Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.”} [Ar-Ra’d: 28]

Dua illuminates the heart, removes grief and sorrow, and brings joy and happiness. It also contributes to mental health, both preventive and therapeutic.

How to Keep Faith While Waiting for Allah’s Answer

Selected Supplications from the Qur’an and Sunnah

1. Dua of Yunus (Jonah), peace be upon him

“There is no deity except You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers.” [Al-Anbiya: 87]

This supplication is attributed to Prophet Yunus in the belly of the whale, where Allah relieved his distress. It is recited in times of severe distress or oppression, particularly when feeling trapped or overwhelmed. It reminds one of Tawheed and Divine perfection, bringing relief and psychological comfort.

2. Dua of Nuh (Noah), peace be upon him

“My Lord, indeed I am overpowered, so help.” [Al-Qamar: 10]

Chosen for its relevance to oppression, this dua is used when feeling defeated or facing hardships, such as injustice or trials. It strengthens the heart, increases steadfastness, and reinforces trust in Allah for victory.

3. Dua for Anxiety and Sorrow from the Sunnah

“O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and grief, from incapacity and laziness.”

Reported from the Prophet ﷺ, this supplication covers psychological ailments. It is recited daily, especially after prayers or during worries, protecting against weakness and restoring spiritual energy and peace of mind.

Other Qur’anic Supplications for Psychological Comfort

• {“My Lord, expand for me my chest *and ease for me my task.”} [Ta-Ha: 25-26]

• {“My Lord, indeed I have wronged myself, so forgive me.”} [Al-Qasas: 16]

• {“Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”} [Al-Baqarah: 201]

• {“Sufficient for me is Allah; there is no deity except Him. On Him I rely.”} [At-Tawbah: 129]

These supplications cultivate tranquility and help overcome stress.

Dua in Prayer and Recommended Times

During prayer, much dua is made in prostration, as the Prophet ﷺ said: “The closest a servant is to his Lord is during prostration, so increase your supplication.” After Tashahhud, one seeks protection from Hellfire and the grave. In Qunoot, one prays: “O Allah, guide me among those You have guided.”

Supplication is most accepted during the last third of the night, in prostration, and between the Adhan and Iqamah, recited persistently without repeating the pre-Islamic idle talk.

How to Maintain Regular Dua

Dedicate a daily time after prayers, with sincerity and focus. Reflect on the meanings of supplications to deepen spirituality. Continue without haste, knowing dua changes destiny. Invoke Allah in both ease and difficulty, always with gratitude.

Dua enhances relationships and work performance, making one calmer and more centered.

Conclusion

Dua is a spiritual link connecting the heart with Allah, bringing inner peace and relief from distress, drawn from the Qur’an and Sunnah. Regular practice fosters psychological healing and tranquility, making it a believer’s weapon in all circumstances. Let it be our constant companion for spiritual comfort.