أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ الَّذِي لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ
I seek forgiveness from Allah, the One besides Whom there is no god, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer, and I turn to Him in repentance.
Astaghfirullahal-ladhi la ilaha illa huwal-hayyul-qayyum wa atubu ilaih
When to Read
This powerful dua is particularly beneficial after realizing you've spent time in the company of those whose actions or words were displeasing to Allah, or when you fear that such association might have led you astray. It's a beautiful way to purify your intention and seek Allah's pardon for any slip-ups.
How to Read
Recite this sincerely, with heartfelt remorse and a firm intention not to repeat the mistake. Understanding the meaning – acknowledging Allah's unique power as the Ever-Living, the Self-Sustaining – adds depth to your seeking of forgiveness. Repeating it is encouraged, as is reflecting on the gravity of associating with unrighteousness.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a comprehensive supplication for forgiveness and repentance. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught it as a means of cleansing oneself from sins, especially after acts that might have displeased Allah. Its inclusion of 'Al-Hayyul-Qayyum' emphasizes Allah's absolute dominion and eternal existence, reminding us of who we are turning to for pardon. It's a direct path to Allah's mercy and a way to renew our commitment to righteousness.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him): I heard the Messenger of Allah ﷺ say: 'By Allah, I ask for forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day.' In another narration: 'more than a hundred times a day.' This specific phrasing, 'Astaghfirullahal-ladhi la ilaha illa huwal-hayyul-qayyum wa atubu ilaih' is taught as a specific supplication for seeking forgiveness and repentance, particularly when one feels they have faltered or been in compromising situations, as narrated in Sunan Abi Dawud.