اَللّٰهُمَّ اهْدِنِيْ لِاَحْسَنِ الْاَخْلَاقِ لَا يَهْدِيْ لِاَحْسَنِهَا اِلَّا اَنْتَ وَاصْرِفْ عَنِّيْ سَيِّئَهَا لَا يَصْرِفُ عَنْ سَيِّئِهَا اِلَّا اَنْتَ
O Allah, guide me to the best of character, for none can guide to the best of it except You. And turn me away from bad character, for none can turn away from bad character except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani-l-akhlaqi, la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wasrif 'anni sayyi'aha, la yasrif 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta.
When to Read
This dua is perfect to recite at any time, but especially when you are preparing to host guests or when you feel you are falling short in your hospitality. It’s a humble request to Allah to shape your character towards the ideal of kindness and generosity that Islam encourages in hosting.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Focus on the meaning as you speak, asking Allah to transform your inner disposition. It’s beneficial to say it regularly, perhaps after your obligatory prayers, to make it a consistent part of your supplication.
Virtues & Benefits
Developing a welcoming character is a beautiful reflection of faith. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us: 'Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him be generous to his guest.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6015). This dua helps cultivate the inner qualities needed for such generosity and kindness, which not only pleases Allah but also strengthens bonds within the community.
Source & Authentication
‘Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'O Allah, You have made my creation beautiful, so make my character beautiful.' (Sahih Muslim 771). While this specific hadith focuses on general character, the principle applies beautifully to the virtue of hospitality. The act of being a welcoming host, as encouraged in many ahadith, is a manifestation of good character.