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 manners except You. And turn me away from bad manners, for none can turn away bad manners except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsanil-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta
When to Read
Recite this dua regularly, especially after your obligatory prayers. Make it a habit whenever you reflect on your interactions and relationships, consciously seeking to embody the traits of a trustworthy friend.
How to Read
Recite with sincerity and a firm intention to act upon the qualities you are asking for. Focus on the meaning and the reliance on Allah for this significant character development. You can make this personal dua, or include it as part of your regular supplications.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua encompasses the aspiration for excellent character, which is a cornerstone of strong, reliable friendships. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasized the importance of good character in other ways: 'The best among you are those who have the best character (who are the best in fulfilling what they ordained to their wives and in their homes).' (Sahih al-Bukhari 3755). Developing such character naturally attracts and nurtures trustworthy friendships.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate: 'Allahumma ihdini li-ahsanil-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta' (O Allah, guide me to the best of manners, for none can guide to the best of manners except You. And turn me away from bad manners, for none can turn away bad manners except You). Sahih Muslim 771. The context here is a general supplication for character refinement, directly applicable to becoming a better friend.