اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي ذَنْبِي كُلَّهُ، دِقَّهُ وَجِلَّهُ، أَوَّلَهُ وَآخِرَهُ، عَلَانِيَتَهُ وَسِرَّهُ
O Allah, forgive me all my sins, the minor and the major, the first and the last, the apparent and the secret.
Allahumma-ghfirli dhanbi kullahu, diqqahu wa jillahu, awwalahu wa akhirahu, 'alaniyatahu wa sirrahu
When to Read
This comprehensive dua can be recited at any time, but it is particularly potent when said during the quiet hours of the night (like in Tahajjud), after obligatory prayers, or during times of sincere reflection and repentance. It's a beautiful way to start or end your day, acknowledging our constant need for Allah's mercy.
How to Read
Recite this with sincere intention and a humble heart, truly feeling your need for Allah's forgiveness. Imagine yourself standing before Allah, acknowledging your shortcomings. Raise your hands, as is customary when making dua. Focus on the meaning of each word, letting it sink into your heart. It's good practice to follow this with seeking refuge in Allah and praising Him, as the Prophet ﷺ often did.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a complete plea for forgiveness, covering every aspect of our sins. By asking for forgiveness for both the small and large, the early and late, and the open and secret sins, we are seeking Allah's comprehensive mercy. It reminds us that no sin is too small for His attention and no secret sin is hidden from Him. Seeking Allah's forgiveness is a path to drawing closer to Him and earning His pleasure. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness: 'And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.' (Al-Muzzammil 73:20).
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Hurairah: The Prophet ﷺ used to say in his prayer: 'O Allah, forgive me my sins, the minor and the major, the first and the last, the apparent and the secret.' (Sahih Muslim 771)