What do I say when I see someone suffering?
When you see someone afflicted, the sunnah is to say quietly: "Alhamdu lillahil-ladhi 'afani mimmab-talaka bihi, wa faddalani 'ala kathirin mimman khalaqa tafdila." It thanks Allah for sparing you. Say it to yourself, not to the person, and then do what you can to help.
The dua and its meaning
"Praise be to Allah who has spared me from what He has tested you with, and has favoured me over many of those He created."
The Prophet ﷺ said that whoever sees someone afflicted and says this will be protected from that affliction (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3432, graded hasan by al-Albani, though some scholars grade it weak). Scholars point out that it should be said silently, so the person doesn't hear it and feel judged or hurt. Its purpose is gratitude, not comparison.
Gratitude, not superiority
This dua isn't about thinking you're better. Every blessing you have is a gift, and it can be taken away at any time. The person in front of you may be closer to Allah through their patience than you are through your comfort. Seeing them is a reminder to be humble, thankful and kind.
Words to say to the person
When you speak to someone who is sick, grieving or struggling, choose words that comfort:
- "May Allah make it easy for you" or "May Allah heal you."
- For illness, the Prophet ﷺ used to say "La ba's, tahurun in sha' Allah": "No worry, it is a purification, if Allah wills." See What dua do I say when visiting someone who is sick?
- For non-Muslims, a sincere "I'm so sorry, I'm here for you" and a dua for their guidance and wellbeing are both fine.
You can also make dua for them in private. See Can I make dua for someone without telling them?
Then help
A dua is not the end of your duty. The Prophet ﷺ described the believers as one body: when one part hurts, the whole body feels it (Sahih Muslim 2586). He also said Allah helps a servant as long as the servant helps his brother (Sahih Muslim 2699).
Help can be a meal, a lift to the hospital, a few coins, or simply sitting with someone. See Can I give money to a homeless person who might buy alcohol?
- Silently say "Alhamdu lillahil-ladhi 'afani..." when you see someone afflicted.
- Never say it in a way that hurts or shames the person.
- Offer kind words and dua for them, Muslim or not.
- Follow your dua with practical help where you can.
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