اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّى أَسْأَلُكَ حُسْنَ الْخَاتِمَةِ وَالْقَبُوْلَ بَعْدَ الْقَبُوْلِ.
O Allah, I ask You for a good end and acceptance after acceptance (of deeds).
Allahumma inni as'aluka husnal-khatimah wal-qabula ba'd al-qabul.
When to Read
This dua is particularly potent to be recited immediately after completing your obligatory prayers (Salat). It's a moment when your heart is likely most receptive, having just engaged in devotion to Allah. Making it a consistent part of your post-prayer routine can bring immense benefit.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's mercy for a righteous conclusion to your life and the acceptance of all your good deeds, not just those done recently, but all of them being accepted by Allah. Raising your hands slightly or keeping them by your sides after prayer is a common practice when making supplication.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication addresses two of the most crucial aspects of a Muslim's life: a righteous end and the acceptance of one's worship and actions. A 'good end' (husnal-khatimah) means dying in a state of faith and submission to Allah. The 'acceptance after acceptance' signifies that not only should our current deeds be accepted, but we seek Allah's continuous favor in accepting whatever good we do throughout our lives. This plea highlights our dependence on Allah's mercy, as our deeds alone do not guarantee paradise without His acceptance.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) taught us the Tashahhud and the prayer (Dua) and said: 'If you sit in the last Rak'ah, say: (The dua is mentioned here).' (Note: While the primary context of this hadith is the Tashahhud, this specific supplication is often recommended for repetition after prayer due to its profound meaning, as narrated in other sources like Musnad Ahmad).