اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِفُلانٍ، وَارْفَعْ دَرَجَتَهُ فِي المَهْدِيِّينَ، وَاخْلُفْهُ فِي عَقِبِهِ فِي الغَابِرِينَ، وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَلَهُ يَا رَبَّ العَالَمِينَ، وَافْسَحْ لَهُ فِي قَبْرِهِ، وَنَوِّرْ لَهُ فِيهِ
O Allah, forgive [name of deceased], and raise his rank among those who are guided. Grant him a successor from among those who remain. Forgive us and him, O Lord of the worlds. Make his grave spacious for him, and illuminate it for him.
Allahummaghfir li [name of deceased], warfa' darajatahu fil-mahdiyyeen, wakhlafhu fi 'aqibihi fil-ghabireen, waghfir lana wa lahu ya Rabb al-'alameen, wafsaha lahu fi qabrihi, wa nawwir lahu feehi.
When to Read
This dua is especially poignant when recited for someone who you know was deeply engaged with worldly matters, perhaps to the point of neglecting spiritual duties. Recite it during funeral prayers (Salat al-Janazah), at the grave site, or anytime you remember the deceased. It's a powerful way to send continuous mercy and supplication for their journey in the hereafter.
How to Read
When reciting this dua, it's recommended to be in a state of purity if possible, though not strictly required. Face the direction of the Qiblah, place the name of the deceased where indicated by '[name of deceased]', and recite with sincerity and a humble heart, focusing on the mercy of Allah and the accountability of the hereafter. Imagine Allah's vastness and His infinite capacity for forgiveness. The act of making dua for others is a beautiful manifestation of brotherhood and sisterhood in Islam.
Virtues & Benefits
Making dua for the deceased is one of the most beneficial acts for them after their passing. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'When a person dies, all their deeds end except for three: a continuous charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.' (Sahih Muslim 1631). This dua specifically asks for Allah's forgiveness and mercy, easing the burden of any worldly preoccupations that may have weighed them down. It also seeks comfort and light for their grave, acknowledging the transition from this life to the next.
Source & Authentication
The Hadith pertains to the general supplication for the deceased. The specific wording of this dua is a well-established supplication recited by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions for the departed. The context is the prayer for the deceased, where specific supplications are taught to ask for Allah's mercy and forgiveness for the one who has passed on, recognizing their transition and need for Allah's grace.