اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي لِأَحْسَنِ الْأَخْلَاقِ لَا يَهْدِي لِأَحْسَنِهَا إِلَّا أَنْتَ وَاصْرِفْ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا لَا يَصْرِفُ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا إِلَّا أَنْتَ
O Allah, guide me to the best of manners, for none can guide to the best of them but You. And turn away from me the evil of them, for none can turn away the evil of them but You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani al-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa Anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa Anta
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant during the congregational prayer, especially before the tasleem (the final salutations to end the prayer). It can also be recited during the Tashahhud, as it's a moment of intense focus and supplication before the prayer concludes. Many scholars also recommend reciting it at other times when seeking self-improvement in character, such as during the night, in the final third of the night, or after obligatory prayers.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a heartfelt plea to Allah. Understand the meaning of each word and reflect on your own character. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would often repeat supplications and ask Allah for guidance, demonstrating the importance of consistent and earnest dua. As this dua is about seeking the 'best of manners,' it implies that even good actions can be improved, and bad habits can be overcome with Allah's help.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking Allah's guidance to the best of manners is crucial because our conduct, both in worship and in daily life, is a reflection of our faith. Good manners are a cornerstone of Islamic character, pleasing to Allah and beneficial to ourselves and others. This dua directly asks the One who has the power to bestow these qualities. It acknowledges our dependence on Him and His absolute ability to shape our character for the better, leading to a more complete and accepted prayer, and a more virtuous life.
Source & Authentication
Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to say: 'Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani al-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa Anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa Anta.' ('O Allah, guide me to the best of manners, for none can guide to the best of them but You. And turn away from me the evil of them, for none can turn away the evil of them but You.')