اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْجَنَّةَ وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ النَّارِ
O Allah, I ask You for Paradise and seek refuge in You from the Fire.
Allahumma inni as'alukal Jannata wa a'udhu bikan minan-nar
When to Read
This dua is specifically recommended to be recited in the final Tashahhud of the prayer, just before the Tasleem (salutation). It's a perfect moment to turn your heart completely towards Allah and ask for His immense favors.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and focus after reciting the Tashahhud and before concluding the prayer with the Tasleem. Raise your hands slightly if you feel the need for emphasis, though it's not a strict requirement for du'as made in the prayer itself. Focus on the meaning as you say it, envisioning Paradise and seeking Allah's protection from the Hellfire.
Virtues & Benefits
This simple yet profound dua encapsulates the ultimate desires of a believer: attaining Paradise and escaping the Hellfire. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this specifically for the end of our prayers, indicating its significance and the prime opportunity it presents. By asking for Paradise, we are asking for everything good, for it is the place of eternal bliss where 'what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has ever thought of' awaits. Seeking refuge from the Fire is a plea for Allah's mercy to save us from His punishment. Making this dua at the end of our prayer is a way to seek Allah's acceptance of our worship and to maximize the benefit of our devotion.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'When any one of you has finished his prayer, he should invoke Allah for the things that he desires first, and then he should recite the Tasleem.' Another narration states: 'When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ finished his prayer, he would say: Allahumma inni as'alukal Jannata wa a'udhu bikan minan-nar (O Allah, I ask You for Paradise and seek refuge in You from the Fire).' Sahih al-Bukhari 6306. The context is the supplication before the Tasleem.