Introduction
In every believer’s life, there comes a moment when the heart feels heavy, the eyes overflow with tears, and the soul desperately seeks relief. There are nights when you sit on your prayer mat after Tahajjud, whispering your deepest desires to Allah, wondering if your long-awaited dua will ever be answered.
During such times, one powerful remembrance stands out: “La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah.” This beautiful dhikr was described by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as a treasure from Jannah. It is a phrase filled with surrender, trust, and absolute reliance upon Allah.
This article explores the meaning, virtues, and a structured night worship routine centered around this powerful dhikr for those going through difficult times.
Understanding the Meaning of La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah
What Does the Phrase Mean?
The Arabic phrase:
لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللّٰهِ
Translates to:
“There is no power and no strength except with Allah.”
This statement is not just a sentence — it is a declaration of complete submission. It means:
- I have no ability to change my condition except through Allah.
- I have no strength to overcome hardship except by Allah’s help.
- I cannot achieve success unless Allah wills it.
It shifts the heart from anxiety to tawakkul (trust in Allah).
Hadith About This Dhikr: A Treasure from Jannah
Mention in Authentic Hadith
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described this dhikr as one of the treasures of Paradise in authentic narrations found in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.
He ﷺ referred to “La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah” as a treasure from the treasures of Jannah.
This shows its immense spiritual value.
Spiritual Benefits Mentioned in Hadith
Scholars explain that this dhikr:
- Removes worry and distress
- Strengthens reliance upon Allah
- Increases spiritual reward
- Brings peace to the heart
However, it is important to understand: Islam does not promise automatic miracles through specific number-based formulas. Rather, the real power lies in sincerity, halal sustenance, patience, and strong faith.
A Night Worship Routine Centered Around This Dhikr
If you are going through a difficult phase, here is a structured night routine based on voluntary worship and remembrance.
Best Time to Perform This Worship
Tahajjud: The Last Third of the Night
The last third of the night is one of the most powerful times for dua. During this time, Allah descends in a manner befitting His Majesty and asks:
“Who is calling upon Me so that I may answer him?”
This makes Tahajjud the ideal time for heartfelt supplication.
Step-by-Step Spiritual Practice
Step 1: Perform Wudu and Pray Two Rak’ah Nafl
Make proper wudu with focus and humility.
Pray two rak’ah voluntary prayer (nafl) with full concentration. Keep it simple but sincere.
Step 2: Recite 100 Times Durood Sharif
After prayer, recite any authentic form of Durood upon the Prophet ﷺ.
Sending blessings upon him:
- Increases acceptance of dua
- Brings immense reward
- Softens the heart
Step 3: Recite “La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah” 499 Times
Slowly and mindfully repeat:
La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah
Do not rush. Focus on the meaning:
- I am weak.
- Allah is All-Powerful.
- I surrender my problem to Him.
Step 4: On the 500th Time, Add “Al-Aliyyil Azeem”
On the 500th recitation, say:
La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah Al-Aliyyil Azeem
Meaning:
“There is no power and no strength except with Allah, the Most High, the Most Great.”
This emphasizes Allah’s greatness and supremacy over every difficulty.
Step 5: Recite Durood Again 100 Times
End with 100 more Durood.
Scholars mention that beginning and ending dua with Durood increases its acceptance.
Step 6: Make Personal Dua with Full Sincerity
Now raise your hands and speak to Allah.
Cry if your heart feels heavy.
Ask clearly for your need:
- Marriage
- Rizq
- Success in exams
- Health
- Peace of mind
Speak honestly. Allah understands your language, even if your words are broken.
Why This Dhikr Is Powerful During Difficult Times
It Teaches Complete Surrender
When a believer says this phrase, they acknowledge:
- I cannot fix this alone.
- Only Allah can change my situation.
This removes arrogance and builds humility.
It Reduces Anxiety
Anxiety comes from feeling in control of everything.
This dhikr reminds you:
You are not in control — Allah is.
And that realization brings peace.
It Strengthens Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)
Tawakkul means:
- You take action.
- You pray.
- You rely fully on Allah for results.
This balance is the key to spiritual strength.
Important Clarifications
No Guaranteed Instant Miracles
Islam does not teach that a specific number automatically guarantees fulfillment.
Dua is accepted in three ways:
- It is granted immediately.
- It is delayed for a better time.
- A greater harm is removed instead.
Allah always responds — but in the best way.
Halal Rizq Matters
The Prophet ﷺ taught that unlawful income can block acceptance of dua.
If you want your dua accepted:
- Ensure halal earnings.
- Avoid oppression.
- Maintain good character.
Sincerity Is the Real Secret
The real strength of this practice is:
- Focus
- Faith
- Clean heart
- Full reliance upon Allah
Without sincerity, repetition becomes empty.
When Should You Start This Practice?
You do not need a special occasion.
Start when:
- You feel lost.
- Your heart feels heavy.
- You have a long-standing dua.
- You need spiritual strength.
Even if you cannot do 500 times, start with 33 times daily. Consistency is more beloved to Allah than occasional intensity.
Final Reflection: Your Tears Are Not Wasted
Every tear you shed in sujood is recorded.
Every whisper in the darkness is heard.
Every broken moment is known by Allah.
The phrase La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah is more than words — it is surrender, healing, and hope.
If you begin tonight with sincerity, perhaps Allah will open doors you never imagined.
May Allah ease your hardships, accept your duas, and grant you peace of heart.
Allahumma Ameen.