اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِ لِقَلْبِ طِفْلِي الرَّحْمَةَ وَالشَّفَقَةَ عَلَى خَلْقِكَ، وَاجْعَلْهُ سَبَبًا لِلْخَيْرِ وَالرِّفْقِ بِهِمْ.
O Allah, guide my child's heart with mercy and compassion towards Your creation, and make them a means of goodness and gentleness towards them.
Allahumma ihdi li qalbi tiflī ar-rahmata wash-shafaqata 'alā khalqika, waj'alhu sababan lil-khairi war-rifqi bihim.
When to Read
Recite this dua for your children at any time, especially after Fajr or Dhuhr prayers, or when observing your child interacting with animals. You can also say it as part of your general supplications for their character development.
How to Read
Recite with sincere intention, focusing on the meaning and asking Allah to instill these qualities in your child. You can place your hand on your child's forehead or shoulder while reciting it for them, or say it to them directly and encourage them to make it their own dua.
Virtues & Benefits
Instilling mercy and compassion in children is a noble deed that aligns with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Our beloved Prophet ﷺ emphasized kindness to all creatures. For instance, he taught us about the woman who was forgiven for her sins because she gave water to a thirsty dog: 'A prostitute was forgiven by Allah, because, passing by a dog tethered to a rope near a well and dying of thirst, she had tied it (with the rope) and then set it free. For this (act of kindness), Allah forgave her.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 3441). Another hadith states: 'Whoever is not merciful to people, Allah will not be merciful to him.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 7376). By praying for this quality, we are seeking for our children to embody Allah's attributes and the Prophet's example, earning His pleasure and cultivating good character.