اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَيْرَهَا وَخَيْرَ أَهْلِهَا وَخَيْرَ مَا فِيهَا، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّهَا وَشَرِّ أَهْلِهَا وَشَرِّ مَا فِيهَا
O Allah, I ask You for its goodness, the goodness of its inhabitants, and the goodness of what it contains, and I seek refuge in You from its evil, the evil of its inhabitants, and the evil of what it contains.
Allahumma inni as'aluka khairaha wa khaira ahliha wa khaira ma fiha, wa a'udhu bika min sharriha wa sharri ahliha wa sharri ma fiha
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant when you are stepping into a new phase of life, moving to a new place, starting a new job, or facing any situation where the outcome is unknown. It's about acknowledging that while we plan and prepare, the ultimate control and knowledge lie with Allah. Reciting this before embarking on a journey or entering a new environment helps set a positive intention and entrust your affairs to the Almighty.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a heart full of trust in Allah (tawakkul). Raise your hands if appropriate for the situation, similar to how one might make dua when starting a journey. Focus on the meaning of the words, asking Allah for the best outcomes and protection from harm. It's a plea for divine guidance and blessing in whatever lies ahead.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a profound reliance on Allah. By asking for the 'goodness' of a situation and seeking refuge from its 'evil,' we are acknowledging Allah's complete dominion. It shifts our focus from the anxiety of the unknown to the certainty of Allah's wisdom and power. This practice helps cultivate peace of mind, knowing that even in uncertainty, we have sought the best from the One who knows all.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Ibn 'Abbas: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'Whoever wishes to return (from a journey), should recite: 'A-ibuna, ta'ibuna, 'a-biduna, li-Rabbina hamidun.' (We are returning, repenting, worshipping, praising our Lord). And whoever enters a town or a city, should say, 'Allahumma inni as'aluka khairaha wa khaira ahliha wa khaira ma fiha, wa a'udhu bika min sharriha wa sharri ahliha wa sharri ma fiha (O Allah, I ask You for its goodness, the goodness of its inhabitants, and the goodness of what it contains, and I seek refuge in You from its evil, the evil of its inhabitants, and the evil of what it contains).'