أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ الَّذِي لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ.
I seek forgiveness from Allah, than Whom there is no true god, the Ever-Living, the Self-Subsisting by Whom all subsists, and I turn to Him in repentance.
Astaghfirullahal-ladhee la ilaha illa Huwal-Hayyul-Qayyoomu wa atubu ilaih.
When to Read
This dua is recited when leaving the masjid after completing your prayers or visit. It's a beautiful way to conclude your spiritual engagement, acknowledging your human imperfections and seeking Allah's mercy before re-entering the affairs of the world.
How to Read
Recite this supplication with sincere intention and a humble heart. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's forgiveness and turning back to Him. Many scholars mention reciting it three times upon leaving any gathering, including the masjid, for its immense benefits.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught this powerful dua, emphasizing its ability to expiate sins, especially when recited after good deeds like attending the masjid. In one narration, it is mentioned that whoever says this upon finishing wudu (ablution), the gates of Paradise are opened for him to enter from whichever he wishes (Sahih Muslim 224). While that specific narration is for completing wudu, the principle of seeking forgiveness after an act of worship carries immense weight. This dua encompasses the essence of acknowledging Allah's sovereignty and our reliance on His mercy, a perfect closing to our time spent in His house.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'Whoever performs wudu perfectly and then says: 'Astaghfirullahal-ladhee la ilaha illa Huwal-Hayyul-Qayyoomu wa atubu ilaih' (I seek forgiveness from Allah, than Whom there is no true god, the Ever-Living, the Self-Subsisting by Whom all subsists, and I turn to Him in repentance), he will be forgiven.' (Sunan Abi Dawud 1517, Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3577). Although this hadith is specifically mentioned in the context of completing wudu, its profound words of seeking forgiveness and repentance are applicable and highly recommended after any act of worship, including leaving the masjid.