اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا، وَزَكِّهَا أَنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا، أَنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلَاهَا، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ.
O Allah, grant my soul its piety and purify it, for You are the best of those who purify it. You are its Guardian and Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear (You), from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard.
Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkiha anta khayru man zakkaha, anta waliyyuha wa mawlaha. Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'ain la yusma'.
When to Read
This dua is particularly poignant when you catch yourself in the mirror and recognize a habit you wish to change. It's a moment of self-reflection, ideal for seeking Allah's direct assistance in rectifying aspects of your character or actions that displease Him. Recite it as soon as you identify such a habit or feeling of dissatisfaction with your state.
How to Read
Stand before the mirror, look at your reflection, and consciously acknowledge both the good and the aspects you wish to improve. With sincere intention and humility, recite this comprehensive dua, asking Allah for spiritual purification, contentment, and beneficial knowledge. Focus on the meaning of each phrase as you utter it, internalizing the plea for divine help.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a profound request for spiritual well-being. It asks Allah to instill piety (taqwa), which is the core of faith and good deeds. Purifying the soul (tazkiyah) leads to inner peace and a stronger connection with Allah. Seeking refuge from useless knowledge, a heedless heart, an unquenchable soul (greed/dissatisfaction), and unanswered prayers addresses fundamental challenges to spiritual growth and acceptance. By reciting this, one actively engages in self-improvement and seeks Allah's ultimate support in becoming a better Muslim.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to teach this supplication to his Companions, saying: 'Indeed, Allah's Messenger ﷺ used to teach them this supplication in the same way as he taught them the Quran, saying: 'O Allah, grant my soul its piety and purify it, for You are the best of those who purify it. You are its Guardian and Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear (You), from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard.'