The story of Ashab-e-Kahf (Companions of the Cave) is a remarkable tale mentioned in the Holy Qur’an in Surah Al-Kahf (The Cave). The narrative highlights the story of a group of young men who sought refuge in a cave to preserve their faith from persecution. While the entire Surah offers profound lessons, there’s a specific dua (supplication) that these young men made, which is cited by believers for seeking guidance and mercy from Allah.
The Dua in Arabic:
فَقَالُوا رَبَّنَا آتِنَا مِن لَّدُنكَ رَحْمَةً وَهَيِّئْ لَنَا مِنْ أَمْرِنَا رَشَدًا
Translation in English:
“Our Lord! Grant us mercy from Yourself and guide us rightly in our affairs.”
This supplication is found in verse 10 of Surah Al-Kahf (18:10). It is a short yet powerful plea that encompasses two primary requests:
- Mercy from Allah: The young men, while showing immense determination in their faith, recognized their need for Allah’s mercy. It signifies the importance of seeking compassion and understanding, even when one is firm in their belief.
- Guidance in Affairs: The second part of the dua focuses on seeking right guidance in all affairs. It’s a holistic approach that signifies that believers should aspire not just for spiritual guidance but guidance in all matters of life.
Lessons from the Dua:
The Dua of Ashab-e-Kahf is more than just a plea; it’s a testament to the unwavering faith of the youth. Despite facing persecution, they didn’t ask for vengeance or victory over their persecutors; instead, they sought mercy and guidance.
The dua also underscores the significance of divine intervention and the importance of relying on Allah in times of distress. The Companions of the Cave were in a precarious situation, and their supplication demonstrates their complete trust in God’s plan.
For contemporary believers, reciting this dua can be a way of seeking Allah’s mercy and guidance in various aspects of life, whether it’s making crucial decisions, facing challenges, or embarking on a new venture.
In conclusion, the dua of Ashab-e-Kahf serves as a timeless reminder of the power of faith and the importance of seeking divine intervention. It emphasizes the virtues of humility, trust in God, and the significance of asking for guidance in all our endeavors.