اللَّهُمَّ بِكَ أَصْبَحْنَا وَبِكَ أَمْسَيْنَا، وَبِكَ نَحْيَا وَبِكَ نَمُوتُ، وَإِلَيْكَ المَصِيرُ.
O Allah, by You we enter the morning, and by You we enter the evening. By You we live, and by You we die, and to You is our return.
Allahumma bika asbahna, wa bika amsayna, wa bika nahya, wa bika namoot, wa ilaykal-maseer.
When to Read
This powerful dua is recited when dusk settles and the day draws to a close, marking the transition from the daytime to the evening. It's a beautiful way to acknowledge Allah's control over our existence, from our waking moments to our slumber, and ultimately, our return to Him.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and heartfelt reflection as the sun sets. It’s an affirmation of our dependence on Allah for every moment of our lives, including the transition from day to night. It's best recited while standing or sitting, facing the direction of prayer if possible, with a humble and attentive heart.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive supplication encapsulates our reliance on Allah for our very existence. By acknowledging that we live and die by His will, we foster humility and strengthen our trust in Him (Tawakkul). It serves as a constant reminder of our ultimate return to our Creator, encouraging us to live each day in a way that pleases Him. The phrase 'wa ilaykal-maseer' directly echoes the Quranic concept of accountability, reminding us of the Day of Judgment.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to say upon entering the evening: 'Allahumma bika asbahna, wa bika amsayna, wa bika nahya, wa bika namoot, wa ilaykal-maseer.' (O Allah, by You we enter the morning, and by You we enter the evening. By You we live, and by You we die, and to You is our return.) And when the morning came, he would say: 'Allahumma bika asbahna, wa bika amsayna, wa bika nahya, wa bika namoot, wa ilaykan-nushoor.' (O Allah, by You we enter the morning, and by You we enter the evening. By You we live, and by You we die, and to You is the resurrection.) (Reported in Sunan Abu Dawud and Jami at-Tirmidhi, who graded it Hasan).