Rabbi Inni Massaniya'd-Durr — The Dua of Ayyub (peace be upon him)

Ayyub (peace be upon him) is the symbol of patience in Islam. Although he lost his wealth, his children and his health, he never rebelled; he took refuge in his Lord with patience. After a severe illness that lasted for years, he made this dua. It is striking that Ayyub did not complain; he merely stated his condition and took refuge in Allah's mercy. He said "harm has touched me," but he did not say "protect me" or "save me." For he left it to Allah to determine what His mercy required.

Allah the Exalted said: "So We answered his dua and removed the affliction that was upon him. And We gave him back his family, and the like of them along with them, as a mercy from Us and a reminder for those who worship" (al-Anbiya 84). Ayyub was given back twice what he had lost.

This is a powerful dua that is recommended to be read in times of illness and hardship. Our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The most acceptable dua is the dua of one in distress." The courtesy and delicacy of Ayyub's dua teaches that even in a moment of hardship one should take refuge in Allah's mercy alone, without complaining.