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 and character, for none can guide to the best of them except You. And turn me away from bad manners and character, for none can turn away from bad them except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani al-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wasrif anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu anni sayyi'aha illa anta
When to Read
This is a profound supplication that can be made at any time, but it is particularly potent after the obligatory prayers. It's also beneficial to recite it in the morning upon waking, to set the intention for the day, and in the evening before sleep, to reflect and seek improvement.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Imagine the beautiful character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and ask Allah to grant you the ability to embody those noble traits in your interactions, your speech, and your actions throughout the day. It's a request for divine assistance in refining your inner self and outward conduct, recognizing that all good comes from Allah alone.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking Allah's guidance to attain the best character is crucial for a Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself was the living embodiment of the Quran and the pinnacle of good manners. By making this dua, we actively strive to follow his example, which is a central theme in our faith. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best among you are those who have the best character.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 3556). Emulating his character leads to Allah's love: 'Say, [O Muhammad], 'If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.' (Quran 3:31). This also leads to a heavier weight on the scales on the Day of Judgment, as the Prophet (ﷺ) stated: 'There is nothing heavier in the believer's scale than good character.' (Sahih Muslim 2370).
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'O Allah, guide me to the best of manners and character, for none can guide to the best of them except You. And turn me away from bad manners and character, for none can turn away from bad them except You.' (Sahih Muslim 771)