Juz 19: Al-Furqān 21 to An-Naml 55
Section 5 of 19 · Tafsir of the Qur’an · Mufti Abdul Rahman Mangera
5. The Magical Du'a for Marriage and Family | Verses: Al-Furqan 25:74
Among the beautiful pearls of wisdom in Surat Al-Furqan is a supplication that has been described as "magical" due to its profound impact on family life. This du'a appears in verse 74, which forms part of the comprehensive description of the servants of the Most Merciful (Ibad ar-Rahman). After detailing various noble qualities of these righteous servants, Allah (swt) reveals their heartfelt supplication regarding their families:
وَالَّذِينَ يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوَاجِنَا وَذُرِّيَّاتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعْيُنٍ وَاجْعَلْنَا لِلْمُتَّقِينَ إِمَامًا
“And those who say, 'Our Lord, grant us from our spouses and our offspring comfort of eyes, and make us heads of the God-fearing.'”
This profound du'a encompasses the believers' earnest desires for their family life and spiritual leadership. The righteous servants of Allah seek two essential blessings in this supplication: first, that their spouses and children become a source of comfort and joy to them; and second, that they themselves become exemplary leaders among the righteous.
The phrase "qurrata a'yun" (comfort of eyes) carries deep significance. It represents the ultimate joy, satisfaction, and tranquility that comes when one's spouse and children follow the path of righteousness and obedience to Allah (swt). The greatest comfort for a believer is to see their family members standing firm on the deen of Allah, adhering to His commands, and embodying Islamic virtues.
This supplication has been termed "magical" because of its transformative effect on marital and family relationships. When recited regularly with sincerity and conviction, it serves as a powerful means to resolve household difficulties. Islamic scholars advise that those experiencing discord with their spouses or challenges with their children should persistently make this du'a, as it has remarkable efficacy in either eliminating problems or reducing them to a manageable level.
Beyond merely addressing problems, this du'a is preventative in nature. By regularly supplicating for our families to be sources of joy through their righteousness, we are actively seeking Allah's intervention in guiding them. It reflects the believer's acknowledgment that guidance ultimately comes from Allah (swt).
The second part of the du'a, "make us heads of the God-fearing," reveals the believer's aspiration for spiritual leadership. This request is not motivated by a desire for status or authority, but rather stems from genuine concern for establishing righteousness. The sincere believer wishes to lead by example, inspiring others toward taqwa (God-consciousness).
For those involved in community service, committees, or leadership positions, this du'a carries particular relevance. It entreats Allah (swt) to make us forces for good rather than corruption—leaders who guide others toward righteousness rather than away from it.
The comprehensive nature of this supplication extends beyond our immediate family to our entire progeny. We ask not only for our current children but for all our descendants to be righteous, creating a legacy of faith that extends through generations.
This du'a should become part of our daily supplications, especially for those experiencing familial difficulties. It acknowledges that while we strive to create harmony in our homes through our own efforts, ultimate guidance and reconciliation come from Allah (swt) alone. By combining practical efforts to improve family relationships with sincere supplication, we adopt the balanced approach of tawakkul (reliance on Allah) that characterized the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) life.