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 righteousness, 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 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 da'watin la yustajabu laha.
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant when looking in the mirror, as it's a moment where one might reflect on their appearance and worldly attributes. It's an excellent practice to recite it upon seeing oneself, asking Allah to safeguard against the subtle dangers of vanity and self-admiration, which can lead to arrogance and self-deception. It can be a regular part of your morning routine or whenever you happen to check your reflection.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and earnestness, focusing on the meaning of each phrase. Imagine your reflection as a reminder of Allah's blessings and a potential pitfall for the heart. While there isn't a specific physical posture prescribed for this dua, it's best recited standing or sitting, with a humble heart directed towards Allah.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful supplication addresses several critical spiritual dangers. Seeking refuge from knowledge that doesn't benefit protects us from accumulating information without acting upon it or letting it foster arrogance. A humble heart (one that feels Allah's presence and majesty) is a cornerstone of faith. A soul that is never satisfied can lead to constant striving for more in a way that displeasures Allah or breeds discontent. Finally, seeking refuge from unanswered prayers is a plea for Allah's acceptance and guidance, ensuring our supplications are aligned with His wisdom. By reciting this, we actively seek Allah's help in maintaining humility, genuine piety, and a balanced perspective, especially when confronted with our own image.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah bin Mas'ud: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to supplicate: 'Allahumma, grant my soul its piety, and purify it, for You are the best to purify it. You are its Guardian and its Lord. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that is of no benefit, from a heart that is not humble, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.' (Sahih Muslim 6119)