Travelling is an integral part of life, whether it’s for work, leisure, or religious purposes. In Islam, travel is not only a journey from one place to another, but is also an opportunity to reflect, seek protection, and maintain a deep spiritual connection with Allah.
The concept of ‘Safar Dua’ includes the prayers and supplications we are recommended to recite during travel to ensure safety, guidance, and blessings. This article delves into the significance of the Safar Dua, its various forms, and the Islamic etiquette associated with travel.
Importance of The Safar Dua
The Safar Dua, or travel prayer as it’s better known, is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. They include several different prayers which invoke Allah’s protection to make the journey safe and peaceful.
These duas are derived from the Quran and Hadith, and in particular, they encourage the need to seek divine guidance and assistance during travel. Reciting these supplications not only provides spiritual comfort, but also helps travelers stay mindful of their faith and duties towards Allah.
Key Duas for Travel
Before Starting the Journey
Before the start of any journey, we are encouraged to recite specific duas. One of the most commonly recited prayers is:
“Bismillah, tawakkaltu ‘ala Allah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah”
(In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah, and there is no might nor power except with Allah.)
This dua highlights the need to place your trust in Allah for a safe journey by acknowledging His supreme power.
During the Journey
Throughout the journey, several supplications can be recited. When mounting a vehicle, the following dua from the Quran (Surah Az-Zukhruf, 43:13-14) is recommended:
“Subhanal-ladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinin. Wa inna ila Rabbina lamunqalibun.”
(Glory to Him who has subjected this to us, and we could never have it by our efforts. And verily, to our Lord we are returning.)
This prayer reminds travellers of Allah’s blessings in providing means of transport and the ultimate return to Him.
Entering a New Place
Upon entering a new city or place, it’s recommended to seek Allah’s protection from all potential harm, including from the harm of people who may have a bad intention towards you.
The dua is as follows:
“Allahumma inni a’udhu bika min sharri hadha al-balad wa min sharri ahlihi wa min sharri ma feehi.”
(O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of this place and the evil of its people and the evil of what is in it.)
This dua highlights the importance of seeking Allah’s protection in unfamiliar territories.
Returning Home
When returning home, it is sunnah to recite the following dua:
“A’ibuna, ta’ibuna, ‘abiduna, li-Rabbina hamiduna.”
(We return, repentant, worshipping our Lord, and praising Him.)
This prayer reflects gratitude towards Allah for a safe return and acknowledges His mercy and protection throughout the entire journey.
Islamic Etiquettes During Travel
Our Islamic teachings provide comprehensive guidelines on travel etiquette to ensure that the journey is conducted in a manner pleasing to Allah. It’s important to remember that travel doesn’t just mean when you are travelling far from home.
Travel includes EVERY kind of travel including travelling to and from work, going shopping or going anywhere within the same town. We recite safar duas because as Muslims, we understand that we aren’t in control over the future. Any calamity can happen even as you step outside of your home.
This is why it’s important to place your trust in Allah SWT so He can guide and protect you every step of the way.
Preparation and Planning
Before setting out on a long journey such as visiting a new Country or leaving your city for more than a few days, it is advised to make thorough preparations. This includes ensuring that debts are paid, seeking forgiveness from those wronged, and securing sufficient lawful provisions for the journey. Performing Istikharah (prayer for guidance) is also recommended to seek Allah’s blessing in the travel decisions.
Companionship
Travelling alone isn’t really encouraged because anything can happen when you are travelling. Undertaking any journey in a group is highly encouraged in Islam, as it provides support and safety. The Prophet Muhammad SAW advised having a leader for group travels to maintain order and ensure collective well-being.
Behavior and Conduct
During travel, maintaining purity, praying on time, and exhibiting patience and good manners are essential. It is also important to avoid unnecessary arguments and maintain a positive attitude, reflecting the moral conduct of a true Muslim.
When leaving your city, you are allowed to shorten and combine your prayers as was the custom of the Prophet SAW and the sahabah. In fact, this is a gift from Allah SWT specifically for the traveller and makes it easier for you to perform your prayers without missing them.
Protection from Harm
A common concern for travellers is the safety of their journey. Islam offers specific safar duas to protect travellers from harm. One such dua is:
“Allahumma anta as-sahibu fissafari wal-khalifatu fil-ahli.”
(O Allah, You are the Companion on the journey and the Guardian of the family.)
This prayer seeks Allah’s companionship and protection both for the traveller and the family left behind.
The Safar Dua plays an important role in ensuring a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey. These duas are complete because they take into consideration the travel itself, protection from harm and safety when entering a new place. These beautiful duas even ask Allah SWT for the safety of your family for when you return.
By reciting these duas and adhering to Islamic travel etiquettes, you can seek Allah’s protection, guidance, and blessings. Whether going on a short or a long journey, reciting these supplications will keep you connected to your faith, staying mindful of placing your complete reliance on Allah SWT.
As you prepare for your next journey, remember to include these essential prayers and etiquettes, ensuring that your travel is not only safe, but also spiritually fulfilling insha’Allah.