اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِفُلَانٍ، وَارْفَعْ دَرَجَتَهُ فِي الْمَهْدِيِّينَ، وَاخْلُفْهُ فِي عَقِبِهِ فِي الْغَابِرِينَ، وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَلَهُ يَا رَبَّ الْعَالَمِينَ، وَافْسَحْ لَهُ فِي قَبْرِهِ، وَنَوِّرْ لَهُ فِيهِ
O Allah, forgive [Name of the deceased], and elevate his rank among those who are guided. And leave behind him a good legacy for those who come after him. Forgive us and him, O Lord of the worlds. And make his grave spacious for him and illuminate it for him.
Allahumma-ghfir li [Fulan], warfa' darajatahu fil-mahdiyyin, wakhlufhu fi 'aqibihi fil-ghabirin. Waghfir lana wa lahu ya Rabbal-'alamin. Wafsah lahu fi qabrihi, wa nawwir lahu fihi.
When to Read
This dua is particularly poignant for someone who may have been deeply engrossed in worldly pursuits, perhaps struggling with greed or excessive attachment to materialism. Recite it during funeral prayers, at the graveside, or any time you remember the deceased and wish to make supplication for them. It's a reminder that no matter our earthly struggles, our true success lies in Allah's mercy and forgiveness.
How to Read
When reciting, replace '[Fulan]' with the name of the deceased person. Focus your heart on seeking Allah's forgiveness and mercy for them. It is recommended to make dua with sincerity and conviction, turning to Allah alone. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that dua is a powerful act of worship, especially for a Muslim brother or sister who has passed away.
Virtues & Benefits
Making dua for the deceased is a continuous act of charity (sadaqah jariyah) that benefits them even after their passing. This specific supplication asks for Allah's forgiveness, elevation of their status, and relief in the grave. It acknowledges that while we may have seen their struggles with worldly matters, only Allah can truly judge and grant them peace. The Prophet ﷺ said: 'When a person dies, all their deeds come to an end except for three: an ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who supplicates for them.' (Sahih Muslim 1631).
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from 'Awf ibn Malik al-Ashja'i that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ led them in funeral prayer. He said: 'O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him, grant him safety and forgive his shortcomings. Honor his reception and make his grave spacious. O Allah, cleanse him with water, snow, and hail, as a white garment is cleansed of dirt. O Allah, grant him a home better than his home on earth, a family better than his family on earth, and admit him to Paradise. And protect him from the punishment of the grave and from the punishment of the Fire.' He said: 'And the Messenger of Allah ﷺ prayed for him as I have described, and added: 'O Allah, forgive him and elevate his rank among those who are guided. Leave behind him a good legacy for those who come after him. Forgive us and him, O Lord of the worlds. Make his grave spacious for him and illuminate it for him.'