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 them except You, and turn me away from evil manners, for none can turn away from evil manners except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani al-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa anta, wa-srif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa anta.
When to Read
This profound dua is for anyone seeking to embody the best of Islamic etiquette in their daily life. It's particularly relevant when you feel you're struggling with your temper, words, or interactions with others. Recite it after every prayer, or at any time you feel the need to purify your character and draw closer to the Prophet's ﷺ beautiful example.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and full conviction in Allah's power to transform your character. Imagine yourself embodying the politeness, kindness, and respect that pleased Allah and His Messenger ﷺ. Focus on the meaning as you say the words, internalizing the request for both attaining good and repelling bad characteristics. Raising your hands slightly when making this dua after Salah is also a sunnah practice.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking Allah's help to perfect one's manners is a direct path to pleasing Him. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was sent to perfect good character, and embodying adab is central to our deen. This dua asks for the highest level of character, recognizing that true change comes only from Allah. Cultivating good manners strengthens relationships, fosters peace, and reflects the beauty of Islam to others. As Allah says: 'And indeed, you are of a great moral character.' (Al-Qalam 68:4)
Source & Authentication
Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate: 'O Allah, You have made my physical build as You made it, so make my character as You did, and beautify my conduct towards people.' (The narrator Yahya said: 'He also used to supplicate: 'O Allah, guide me to the best of manners, for none can guide to the best of them except You, and turn me away from evil manners, for none can turn away from evil manners except You.')