Prayer for protection from earthquakes

As devastating earthquakes continue to claim lives in several countries, including Venezuela, many Muslims are turning to authentic prophetic supplications (duas) seeking Allah’s protection from natural disasters, accidents, and sudden death. One such well-known prayer, taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), asks for refuge from various forms of tragic and untimely death.

The supplication is narrated in authentic hadith collections and is widely recited by Muslims during times of fear, uncertainty, and calamity. It seeks Allah’s protection from being crushed under collapsing structures, falling from heights, drowning, burning, extreme old age, and other causes of sudden death. It also asks for protection from Satan’s influence at the moment of death and from dying in a state of disgrace or while fleeing from righteous duty.

The Arabic transliteration of the dua is: "Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal hadmi, wa a'udhu bika minat-taraddi, wa a'udhu bika minal gharaqi wal haraqi wal harami, wa a'udhu bika an yatakhabbatani ash-shaytanu 'indal mawt, wa a'udhu bika an amuta fi sabilika mudbiran, wa a'udhu bika an amuta ladighan."

Holy Ashura observed across Bangladesh today

The meaning of the supplication is: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from death caused by collapsing buildings, from falling from a height, from drowning, from burning, and from the infirmities of extreme old age. I seek refuge in You from Satan's deception at the time of death. I seek refuge in You from dying while turning away in retreat from Your cause, and I seek refuge in You from dying as a result of the bite or sting of a venomous creature." Islamic scholars encourage believers to recite this dua regularly while also taking practical precautions against natural disasters and other potential dangers, as faith and preparedness go hand in hand.