Du‘aa and the Two Types of Needs of Man

On one occasion, a person came to Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) and requested for du‘aa. (Together with making du‘aa for the person,) Hazrat Thaanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) mentioned the following advice to him:

There are two types of needs which man has during his life. The first type relates to those matters which a person does not have any control over, such as the need for rain. In regard to this type, it is sufficient for a person to suffice on making du‘aa (supplicating) to Allah Ta’ala to fulfil this need.

The second type (of needs) relates to those matters which are within a person’s control such as planting the crops, engaging in business and trade, etc. The effect of engaging in du‘aa for this type of need is that through making du‘aa, one will acquire barakah in one’s efforts. Hence, we understand that in regard to this type (of needs), it is necessary for one to make an effort as well (and not merely suffice on engaging in du‘aa).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/143)