Are the supplications and remembrance mentioned in specific numbers after prayers for the relief of distress part of the Sunnah or are they innovations?
These remembrances (adhkar) and supplications (du'as) are legislated, and it is permissible for a Muslim to recall them in times of distress and worry, and at all times. The legality of reciting: "Allah, Allah is my Lord, I do not associate anything with Him," and "There is no god but You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers," and "Allah is sufficient for us, and [He is] the best Disposer of affairs," has been reported. This is in addition to supplications for seeking refuge from worry, sorrow, overwhelming debt, the subjugation of men, helplessness, laziness, cowardice, stinginess, old age, and the torment of the grave; and seeking refuge from knowledge that does not benefit, a heart that does not humble itself, a soul that is never satisfied, and a supplication that is not answered. However, restricting these remembrances to a specific number or a fixed time to alleviate distress has no evidence. For desirability (istihbab) is a legal ruling that can only be established by legal proof. The principle concerning remembrances and acts of worship is tawqif (strict adherence to what is legislated), meaning that Allah should not be worshipped except in the manner He has prescribed. It is not permissible to commit to a specific method, time, or number for which there is no legal text.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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