اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي وَسَدِّدْنِي وَاذْكُرْ بِعَافِيَتِكَ سُوءَ مَا جِدْتُ بِهِ
O Allah, guide me and set me aright and remember by Your well-being the evil of that which I have encountered.
Allahumma ihdini wa saddidni wadhkur bi'afiyatika su'a ma jidtu bihi
When to Read
This is a powerful dua to recite whenever you feel you have strayed, whether through a specific sin or a general sense of distance from Allah. It's especially poignant when you're seeking direction and strength to turn back towards Him after a period of neglect or wrongdoing. Recite it after prayers, during the night, or any time your heart feels the need for Allah's guidance.
How to Read
Make this dua with sincere intention and a yearning heart. Raise your hands as you do so, embodying the humble posture of a servant seeking their Lord. Reflect on the meaning of the words, acknowledging your need for Allah's guidance and His ability to rectify your state. Believe in the answer, for Allah (SWT) is Al-Mujeeb, the One Who Responds.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses a profound request for comprehensive guidance. 'Ihdini' (guide me) is a plea for direction in all aspects of life. 'Saddidni' (set me aright) asks for correctness and straightness in actions and intentions. 'Wadhkur bi'afiyatika su'a ma jidtu bihi' is a beautiful plea where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ asks Allah to 'remember,' or perhaps 'overcome' or 'rectify,' the ill effects of whatever he might have encountered, with Allah's perfect well-being and protection. It signifies a return to Allah's favor and a seeking of His cleansing grace after sin or error.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'O Allah, guide me and set me aright and remember by Your well-being the evil of that which I have encountered.' (Sahih Muslim 2721)