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 manners, for none can guide to the best of them except You. And turn away from me the evil of them, for none can turn away the evil of them except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsanil-akhlaq, la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, w-asrif 'anni sayyi'aha, la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta
When to Read
This powerful supplication is a cornerstone for anyone seeking to embody the noble character that Islam champions. It's perfect to recite daily, perhaps after your obligatory prayers, or whenever you feel a conscious need to refine your interactions and intentions. Cultivating kindness and generosity isn't a one-time act; it's a continuous journey, and this dua is your compass.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Raise your hands as you would during supplication. Focus on the meaning of the words, asking Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala to actively shape your character, making you a source of good and a mirror of His mercy in your dealings with others. Imagine yourself embodying these virtues as you utter each word.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly seeks Allah's guidance towards 'ahsan al-akhlaq' – the best of manners. This encompasses all virtuous traits, including kindness, generosity, patience, humility, and truthfulness. By asking Allah to turn away the evil manners, we acknowledge our own limitations and His absolute power. It's a comprehensive request for a character that pleases Him and benefits His creation. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself made such comprehensive duas, showing us the importance of asking Allah for both spiritual and character development.
Source & Authentication
ʿĀʾishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to supplicate: 'O Allah, guide me to the best of manners, for none can guide to the best of them except You. And turn away from me the evil of them, for none can turn away the evil of them except You.'