اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي ذَنْبِي كُلَّهُ، دِقَّهُ وَجِلَّهُ، أَوَّلَهُ وَآخِرَهُ، عَلانِيَتَهُ وَسِرَّهُ
O Allah, forgive me my sins, all of them, the small and the great, the first and the last, the apparent and the hidden.
Allahumma-ghfirli dhanbi kullahu, diqqahu wa jillahu, awwalahu wa akhirahu, 'alaniyatahu wa sirrahu
When to Read
This comprehensive prayer for forgiveness is particularly poignant when uttered during the prostration (sujood) of your prayer. It's a moment of deep humility and closeness to Allah. Reciting it when feeling regret over missed prayers or any shortcomings in your salah is highly recommended. Make it a habit during the times of du'a that are accepted, such as between the Adhan and Iqamah, or in the last third of the night.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere remorse and a heartfelt intention to improve. Lower yourself in prostration, seeking Allah's mercy. Raise your hands (if not in prayer) or simply make the dua in your heart with full concentration. Visualize Allah's boundless forgiveness and believe that He will accept your plea. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us many specific duas for forgiveness, and this one encapsulates a comprehensive request for pardon, covering all aspects of our sins.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a direct plea to Allah for encompassing forgiveness. By asking for pardon for 'all' sins, 'small and great,' 'first and last,' and 'apparent and hidden,' we are leaving no stone unturned in seeking His mercy. For those who feel they have neglected prayer, this serves as a powerful way to acknowledge that neglect as a sin and actively seek Allah's pardon. It fosters a sense of humility and dependence on Allah, recognizing that true forgiveness comes only from Him.
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to recite in Ruku' (bowing) and Sujud (prostration): 'Subhanakallahumma wa bihamdika, Allahumma-ghfirli.' (Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You. O Allah, forgive me.) In another narration: 'Subbuhun Quddusun Rabbul mala'ikati war-ruh.' (Glorious, Holy, Lord of the angels and the Spirit.) And in another narration: 'Allahumma-ghfirli dhanbi kullahu, diqqahu wa jillahu, awwalahu wa akhirahu, 'alaniyatahu wa sirrahu.' (O Allah, forgive me my sins, all of them, the small and the great, the first and the last, the apparent and the hidden.)