اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا، وَزَكِّهَا أَنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا، أَنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلَاهَا، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دَعْوَةٍ لَا يُسْتَجَابُ لَهَا.
O Allah, grant my soul its piety and purify it, for You are the best of those who purify it. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humbled, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.
Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkiha anta khayru man zakkaha, anta waliyyuha wa mawlaha. Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min da'watin la yustajabu laha.
When to Read
This dua is comprehensive, encompassing a request for piety, purification of the soul, protection from useless knowledge, hardened hearts, insatiable souls, and unanswered prayers. It's particularly relevant when feeling overwhelmed, struggling with desires, or seeking a deeper sense of peace and reliance on Allah. Recite it in the morning or evening, or at any time you feel a need for spiritual grounding and contentment.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and focus, reflecting on each phrase. Understand that true contentment and peace come from Allah alone. Raise your hands as you would during supplication, or place your hands on your chest while reciting. Ensure you are in a state of purity if possible, facing the Qiblah.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication directly addresses the roots of restlessness and dissatisfaction. By asking Allah for piety (taqwa), we seek the best foundation for a contented life, as taqwa guides us to do what pleases Him and avoid what displects Him. Seeking refuge from a soul that is 'not satisfied' (la tashba') is a direct plea against greed and excessive desire, which are major impediments to inner peace. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this profound dua, showing its importance in seeking Allah's help for our inner well-being.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate: 'O Allah, grant my soul its piety and purify it, for You are the best of those who purify it. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humbled, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.' (Sahih Muslim 1513)