اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي مَا قَدَّمْتُ وَمَا أَخَّرْتُ وَمَا أَسْرَرْتُ وَمَا أَعْلَنْتُ، أَنْتَ الْمُقَدِّمُ وَأَنْتَ الْمُؤَخِّرُ، لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ
O Allah, forgive me for what I have committed in the past and what I will do in the future, what I have done in secret and what I have done openly. You are the One Who brings forth and the One Who delays; there is no god but You.
Allahummaghfirli ma qaddamtu wama akhkhartu wama asrartu wama a'lantu, Antal-Muqaddimu wal-Mu'akhkhir, la ilaha illa Anta.
When to Read
This comprehensive supplication for forgiveness is particularly potent when one realizes they have engaged in backbiting (ghibah) or slander. It should be recited with sincere remorse immediately after recognizing the sin. It's also a beautiful general supplication to make daily, perhaps after each prayer, to seek Allah's encompassing forgiveness for all our shortcomings, known and unknown.
How to Read
Recite this dua with a sincere heart and a clear intention to turn back to Allah. Focus on the meaning of the words, acknowledging Allah's absolute power over all affairs and His encompassing mercy. Raising your hands is not specified for this particular dua, but humility and sincerity in your heart are paramount. Make it a habit to reflect on your actions before making this dua.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a powerful means to seek Allah's forgiveness for all sins, both those committed intentionally and unintentionally, openly and secretly. It acknowledges Allah's unique divine attributes as the One who controls the timing of all things, highlighting His sovereignty. By making this supplication, a believer actively seeks to cleanse their record and earn Allah's pleasure, especially after falling into the grievous sins of backbiting and slander, which harm both the individual and the community.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to say at the end of his prayer: 'O Allah, forgive me for what I have committed in the past and what I will do in the future, what I have done in secret and what I have done openly. You are the One Who brings forth and the One Who delays; there is no god but You.'