Al-Dua al-thamin ashar min al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya

Al-Dua al-thamin ashar min al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, often referred to as the “Fifteenth Supplication,” embodies a profound confluence of spiritual guidance and ethical exhortation. Rooted in the illustrious legacy of Imam Zain al-Abidin, this invocation transcends mere recitation; it invites the adherent into a contemplative dialogue with the Divine. The folly of the human condition, ensnared in the transience of worldly affairs, is juxtaposed against the eternal Kingdom of God, illuminating a path toward introspection, humility, and understanding.

This supplication serves as a lotus, blossoming amidst the muddy waters of daily existence, and offers adherents the opportunity to engage in a contemplative exploration of their innermost thoughts. Its rhythmic prose resonates deeply within the soul, akin to a soothing melody that alleviates anxiety and restores serenity. Within the framework of Al-Dua al-thamin ashar, not only is there a plea for guidance, but also a rich tapestry of metaphors that enrich the linguistic and philosophical depth of the invocation.

The thematic structure of this supplication accentuates several pivotal doctrines in Shia thought. At its core, Al-Dua al-thamin ashar elucidates the significance of divine mercy and forgiveness. The sometimes tumultuous journey of life is portrayed as a maze where the believer, akin to a wanderer lost amid serpentine paths, craves the illuminating light of divine compassion to navigate through uncertainties. Each supplicatory verse reinforces the idea that, despite human shortcomings, God’s mercy is unfathomable, inscribed in the very fabric of creation.

Moreover, the supplication draws upon the imagery of the ocean to symbolize the boundless nature of divine attributes. The believer, represented as one adrift on a vessel, beseeches the divine amidst tempestuous waves of tribulation and the very vicissitudes of life. The metaphor of the ocean emphasizes not only the vastness of God’s mercy but also the believer’s dependency on divine assistance. Herein lies a crucial lesson: true strength emerges from acknowledging one’s vulnerabilities, surrendering the ego to the omnipotence of the Creator.