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 piety and purify it, for You are the best of those who purify it. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that is not humbled, 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 dua is particularly beneficial when looking at yourself, perhaps in a mirror or during moments of introspection, and reflecting on your spiritual state. It's a powerful prayer to ask Allah for inner strength, guidance, and protection against detrimental internal states, especially when contemplating life's challenges and striving to maintain faith in His plan.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and contemplation. Focus on the meaning of each phrase and the deep requests you are making to Allah. Ensure you are in a state of purity if possible, and face the Qiblah while making the dua. Let your heart be present, connecting with Allah as you utter these profound words.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua encompasses seeking Allah's help in achieving piety and inner purification, which are foundational to a strong faith. It asks for protection against useless knowledge, a hardened heart, insatiable desires, and unanswered prayers – all states that can weaken one's reliance on Allah's plan. By reciting this, you are actively seeking Allah's hand in guiding your inner self, which is crucial when facing trials and needing to trust His decree.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to say: '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.' (Sahih Muslim 1548)