Among the many powerful supplications revealed in the Qur’an, one that stands out for its depth, urgency, and timeless relevance is the duā’ beginning with “Rabbana la tajalna fitnatan…” — found in Surah Yunus, verses 85–86. This heartfelt prayer, uttered by the believing followers of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him), carries a universal message of faith, reliance on the Divine, and protection from trials and oppression.
A Prayer of Protection and Reliance
The dua reads:
Arabic Text: رَبَّنَا لَا تَجْعَلْنَا فِتْنَةً لِّلْقَوْمِ ٱلظَّٰلِمِينَ وَنَجِّنَا بِرَحْمَتِكَ مِنَ ٱلْقَوْمِ ٱلْكَٰفِرِينَ
Transliteration: Rabbana la tajalna fitnatan lil-qaumi z-zalimin, wa najjina birahmatika minal-qaumi l-kafirin.
English Translation (general meaning): “Our Lord, do not make us a trial for the people who are unjust, and save us, by Your mercy, from the disbelieving people.”
Context and Background
These verses were revealed at a pivotal moment. The Children of Israel, under the leadership of Prophet Musa (AS), had declared their faith in Allah and their commitment to follow His path. Yet, they were surrounded by fear — the oppressive rule of Pharaoh loomed large, and the power of the tyrant instilled dread in their hearts.
In the preceding verses, Prophet Musa (AS) reminds them: true strength lies not in armies or empires, but in unwavering trust in Allah. He calls upon them to place their reliance solely on the Divine, reassuring them that Allah is sufficient as a Protector and Guide. It is in this moment of spiritual resolve — between faith and fear — that the believers turn to Allah with this profound supplication.
Layers of Meaning
This dua is both simple in wording and profound in meaning. It carries multiple dimensions of protection and guidance:
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Seeking Refuge from Being a “Fitnah” (Trial or Temptation): The phrase “la tajalna fitnatan” — “do not make us a trial” — carries deep significance. It is a plea not to be placed in a position where their faith becomes a source of temptation for others, or where their struggle is exploited to test the weak-hearted. It also means: do not allow the unjust to triumph over us in a way that undermines faith or misleads others.
2.
Protection from the Oppressors: The second part — “wa najjina birahmatika minal-qaumi l-kafirin” — is a direct appeal for salvation from those who reject truth and perpetrate injustice. It acknowledges human vulnerability while affirming complete dependence on divine mercy.
3.
Two Kinds of Trials Addressed:
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The first is the external threat: those who spread falsehood and seek to silence the truth.
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The second is the internal struggle: believers who fear standing firm due to societal or political pressure.
4.
The dua asks Allah to shield the believers from both — to strengthen their resolve and preserve their faith, so they are neither crushed by oppression nor weakened by fear.
A Timeless Supplication for Every Believer
Though revealed in a specific historical context, this prayer transcends time and place. It speaks to every soul facing adversity, every heart trembling in the face of injustice, and every believer striving to remain firm on the path of truth.
In times of personal hardship, social pressure, or spiritual doubt, this duā’ serves as a source of strength. It teaches us to turn to Allah with honesty and humility, recognizing that true safety lies not in power or position, but in divine protection and mercy.
Why We Should Recite It
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To strengthen our reliance (tawakkul) on Allah alone.
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To seek protection from trials that weaken faith.
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To ask for deliverance from oppressive circumstances — whether personal, social, or spiritual.
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To cultivate courage in upholding truth, even when it is unpopular.
Conclusion
The duā’ of “Rabbana la tajalna fitnatan…” is more than a prayer — it is a declaration of faith, a shield of protection, and a beacon of hope. It reminds us that no matter how powerful the forces of oppression may seem, the ultimate authority belongs to Allah. By turning to Him with sincerity, we find strength, clarity, and salvation.
Let us carry this supplication in our hearts, especially in moments of difficulty. May it strengthen our iman, guard us from trials, and keep us firmly anchored in the light of faith — now and always.
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