اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي لِأَحْسَنِ الْأَخْلَاقِ لَا يَهْدِي لِأَحْسَنِهَا إِلَّا أَنْتَ، وَاصْرِفْ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا لَا يَصْرِفُ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا إِلَّا أَنْتَ
O Allah, guide me to the best of character, for none can guide to the best of it except You. And turn me away from bad character, for none can turn away bad character from me except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani-l-akhlaqi, la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha, la yasrif 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta.
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant on Friday, a blessed day. It can be recited at any time, but making it a habit during the blessed hours of Friday, perhaps after the obligatory prayers or during the time when supplications are readily accepted, can be especially beneficial.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus, understanding that character is a profound aspect of our faith. Raise your hands in supplication as is the Sunnah when making dua. Believe in Allah's ability to shape your heart and actions. Make it a consistent practice, not just a one-time plea.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking Allah's guidance for good character is a sign of a discerning Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that the best among believers are those with the best character (Sahih al-Bukhari 6035). Good character is heavy on the scales of deeds on the Day of Judgment (Sahih al-Tirmidhi 2003). This dua directly asks Allah to bestow the highest morals and remove undesirable traits, making it a powerful tool for self-improvement.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah ibn Mas'ud: The Prophet ﷺ used to supplicate: Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani-l-akhlaqi, la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha, la yasrif 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta. (O Allah, guide me to the best of character, for none can guide to the best of it except You. And turn me away from bad character, for none can turn away bad character from me except You.)