اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الهُدَى وَالتُّقَى وَالعَفَافَ وَالغِنَى
O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and richness (contentment).
Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina
When to Read
This comprehensive dua is perfect to recite at any time, but particularly beneficial when you feel your tongue might be tempted towards falsehood, gossip, or harmful speech. It's excellent to say in the morning to set the intention for the day, or before engaging in conversations where honesty is crucial.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus, reflecting on each word. Understand that 'guidance' (huda) includes being guided to speak the truth, 'piety' (tuqa) means having taqwa of Allah in your speech, 'chastity' ('afaf) encompasses guarding your tongue from impure and dishonest talk, and 'richness' (ghina) implies being content with what Allah has provided, thus reducing the need for deceit to gain worldly advantage. Raise your hands as you make the dua, as was the practice of the Prophet ﷺ.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful supplication, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to a man who asked for the best dua, encompasses the very essence of good character. By asking for guidance and piety, we seek Allah's help to align our speech with truth and righteousness. Asking for chastity safeguards us from the sins of the tongue, including lying and deceit, which can have devastating consequences in this life and the next. Contentment (ghina) frees us from the desperate need to lie or cheat for personal gain. This dua is a holistic prayer for moral uprightness, starting with our most expressive organ – the tongue.
Source & Authentication
Ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to supplicate: 'Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina.' (O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and richness). And Muslim narrated: 'Abdullah ibn Mas'ud reported: The Prophet ﷺ supplicated: 'Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda, wat-tuqa, wal-'afafa, wal-ghina.' (O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and contentment).