Dua for Healing (Shifa): Powerful Prayers for the Sick in Islam

Open Quran with prayer beads in mosque light representing dua for healing and spiritual comfort

The Power of Dua for Healing

In Islam, illness is understood as a test and a means of purification. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick of a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that." (Bukhari)

While we seek medical treatment (as the Prophet encouraged), we also turn to Allah with dua — asking for healing, patience, and mercy.

Duas from the Quran

Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening)

The entire Surah Al-Fatiha is a cure. The Prophet (peace be upon him) confirmed that Al-Fatiha is a ruqyah (spiritual healing). Recite it over the sick person.

Ayatul Kursi (Quran 2:255)

"Allahu la ilaha illa Huwa, Al-Hayyul-Qayyum..."

Reciting Ayatul Kursi is a powerful form of protection and healing.

The Last Three Surahs (Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, An-Nas)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) would recite these three surahs, blow into his hands, and wipe them over his body when he was ill. (Bukhari)

Quran 26:80

"And when I am ill, it is He who cures me."

Duas from the Sunnah

When Visiting the Sick

"La ba'sa, tahoorun in shaa Allah"

"No worry, it is a purification, if Allah wills." (Bukhari)

The Prophet's Dua for Healing

"Allahumma Rabban-nas, adhhibil-ba'sa, washfi antash-Shafi, la shifa'a illa shifa'uka, shifa'an la yughadiru saqama"

"O Allah, Lord of mankind, remove the difficulty and bring about healing as You are the Healer. There is no healing except Your healing, a healing that leaves no illness behind." (Bukhari & Muslim)

When Placing Your Hand on the Pain

"Bismillah (3 times). A'udhu billahi wa qudratihi min sharri ma ajidu wa uhadhiru (7 times)"

"In the name of Allah (3 times). I seek refuge in Allah and His power from the evil of what I find and fear (7 times)." (Muslim)

Etiquette of Visiting the Sick

  • Make dua for the person's recovery
  • Keep the visit short and uplifting
  • Ask them to make dua for you (their prayers are accepted)
  • Bring food or practical help if possible

Supporting the Sick in Crisis Zones

Millions of people in Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, and Lebanon are sick without access to medicine or healthcare. Your donation to Umma Foundation helps provide medical supplies, food for recovery, and essential care to those who need healing most.

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