اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَاهْدِنِي وَعَافِنِي وَارْزُقْنِي
O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, grant me well-being, and provide for me.
Allahumma-ghfirli wa-rhmni wa-hdini wa-'afini wa-rzqni
When to Read
This comprehensive dua is recommended when you find yourself in a situation where backbiting (ghibah) or slander (buhtan) is occurring. Instead of engaging or letting anger build, take a moment, even internally, to recite this supplication. It's about seeking Allah's help to control your immediate emotional reaction and to purify your intention in that moment.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, focusing on each word and its meaning. While there's no prescribed number, repeating it mentally or softly when confronted with such speech can be incredibly effective. The core idea is to divert your focus from the negativity of the conversation to the positive remembrance of Allah and seeking His aid. Aim for a state of humility and reliance on Allah.
Virtues & Benefits
This simple yet profound dua, often taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to a companion asking for a comprehensive prayer, helps in several ways when facing difficult situations like hearing backbiting. Firstly, it seeks forgiveness and mercy, which are essential for purifying the heart from the resentment that anger can breed. Secondly, it asks for guidance and well-being ('afiyah), equipping you with the inner strength to navigate the situation wisely, rather than reacting impulsively. Finally, asking for provision reminds us that Allah is our ultimate sustainer, shifting our focus from worldly negativity to spiritual reliance. By internalizing this dua, we aim to respond to ghibah not with anger, but with a prayer for ourselves and an aversion to the sin being committed.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Tariq bin Ashyam that a man said to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: 'Teach me a comprehensive prayer.' He said: 'Say: Allahumma-ghfirli wa-rhmni wa-'afini wa-hdini wa-rzqni (O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, grant me well-being, guide me and provide for me).' He said: 'There is a good matter in what you said.' (Sahih Muslim 2697)