Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum Bi Rahmatika Astagheeth Meaning

Anas bin Malik said: “Whenever a matter would distress him, the Prophet (ﷺ) would say: ‘O Living, O Self-Sustaining Sustainer! In Your Mercy do I seek relief (ya hayyu ya qayyum birahmatika astaghees).’” It is also narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Be constant with: ‘O Possessor of Majesty and Honor (Ya Dhal-Jalali wal-Ikram).’”

From this hadith, we see a clear message from the Prophet (pbuh) for Muslims: anyone seeking relief—whether from work stress, relationship troubles, academic pressures, or any other distress—can turn to Allah by reciting this short dua:

Transliteration: ya hayyu ya qayyum birahmatika astaghees

Meaning: “O Living, O Self-Sustaining Sustainer! In Your Mercy do I seek relief.”

The hadith also recommends repeating the following phrase as a form of dhikr (remembrance of Allah):

Ya Dhal-Jalali wal-Ikram

Meaning: “O Possessor of Majesty and Honor.”

In Surah Baqarah Ayat 152, Allah says: “Remember Me, and I will remember you.” Like many duas, this supplication emphasizes extolling and praising Allah—by invoking Him through two of His beautiful names: Al-Hayy and Al-Qayyum.

He is the Alive, attributed with a life unlike our own—free from the combination of soul, flesh, or blood. He is undying, eternal, perfect, and immune to death or sickness.

His nature is to exist independently, with no dependence on anything or anyone. All things arise through Him; He is Ever-Living and Self-Sustaining, while everything else in existence depends on Him.

If you found this article useful or have suggestions for improvement, feel free to comment below. Jazakallah for reading—may this guide help you understand the meaning behind this powerful dua, and may it be a source of comfort when you feel overwhelmed.

It is okay to feel distressed; it is a natural part of life. We all experience such emotions—the difference lies in how we respond. Will we grow bitter, or will we use these moments to grow closer to Allah (swt) and be grateful for all He has bestowed upon us?

Whether facing good or difficult times, we should not question our fate. Instead, say Alhamdulillah and keep striving.

Remember Allah’s promise in Surah Baqarah Ayat 286: “On no soul doth Allah place a burden greater than it can bear. It gets every good that it earns, and it suffers every ill that it earns. (Pray:) ‘Our Lord! Condemn us not if we forget or fall into error; our Lord! Lay not on us a burden like that which Thou didst lay on those before us; our Lord! Lay not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Blot out our sins, and grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our Protector; Help us against those who stand against faith.’”