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 دَعْوَةٍ لَا يُسْتَجَابُ لَهَا.
O Allah, grant my soul its taqwa (consciousness of You), and purify it, for You are the Best Purifier. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humble, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.
Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkiha anta khairu 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 da'watin la yustajabu laha.
When to Read
This beautiful dua is particularly fitting when you look in the mirror. While you might not find a specific dua for *just* looking in the mirror, this supplication beautifully captures the essence of seeking inner purification and light, which is what one should aspire to when observing oneself. It's a moment to reflect not just on outward appearance, but on the state of our hearts and souls. Reciting it after your obligatory prayers, or at any time you feel the need for spiritual renewal, is also highly beneficial.
How to Read
As you gaze at your reflection, pause for a moment. Take a deep breath and sincerely recite this dua, focusing on the meaning behind each phrase. Visualize Allah's light and guidance entering your heart and mind, purifying your intentions and actions. It’s about connecting with your Creator and seeking His help in becoming the best version of yourself, both inwardly and outwardly.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a profound seeking of spiritual well-being. By asking Allah for taqwa, we're requesting His help in becoming constantly mindful of Him, which is the foundation of all goodness. The purification of the soul (tazkiyah) is a lifelong pursuit for a believer, leading to inner peace and contentment. Seeking refuge from useless knowledge, a hard heart, an unsatisfied soul, and unanswered prayers protects us from spiritual ailments and pitfalls, guiding us towards a life pleasing to Allah.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to supplicate with these words: 'Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkiha anta khairu 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 da'watin la yustajabu laha.' (O Allah, grant my soul its taqwa, and purify it, for You are the Best Purifier. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humble, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.) - Sahih Muslim 6907