أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ
I seek forgiveness from Allah and I turn to Him in repentance.
Astaghfirullah wa atubu ilaih
When to Read
This dua is particularly poignant after finding yourself in company that led you astray, or where unrighteousness was prevalent. It's a powerful way to immediately cleanse your spiritual slate after such an experience, whether that company was brief or extended. Recite it as soon as you realize the negative impact of the association.
How to Read
Recite this simple yet profound dua with sincerity and genuine regret for any slip-ups. It’s best recited aloud, but can be done silently as well. Focus on the meaning: acknowledging your shortcomings, seeking Allah's pardon, and resolving to turn back to Him.
Virtues & Benefits
This is the fundamental dua for seeking forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this phrase as a cornerstone of our relationship with Allah. It's a direct supplication for pardon and a sign of returning to the right path. In a broader sense, any act of sincere repentance, like making this dua after a negative encounter, is a means of purifying our record and drawing closer to Allah. Allah (SWT) says, 'And whoever does evil or wrongs himself, then seeks forgiveness from Allah, will find Allah Forgiving and Merciful.' (Surah An-Nisa 4:110).
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him): I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say: 'By Allah! I ask for forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6306 - although the specific wording here is slightly different, the essence of 'seeking forgiveness and turning to Allah' is central). The practice of the Prophet ﷺ, even when he was sinless, to constantly seek forgiveness, highlights its immense importance for us. This particular phrasing, 'Astaghfirullah wa atubu ilaih,' is a direct expression of that repentance. The Sunan Abi Dawud reference is specifically for the general recommendation of seeking forgiveness.