أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللَّهَ
I seek forgiveness from Allah
Astaghfirullah
When to Read
This practice is highly recommended in the morning, after Fajr prayer, as part of our remembrance of Allah (dhikr). It's a beautiful way to begin the day, cleansing our slate and seeking Allah's mercy before the world's demands take hold. You can also make it a habit any time you feel the need to repent and reconnect with your Creator.
How to Read
Recite 'Astaghfirullah' sincerely with the intention of seeking Allah's forgiveness. While the hadith mentions the Prophet ﷺ saying this 'one hundred times', the core is the sincere seeking of forgiveness. Focus on the meaning of the words and the humility in asking Allah for pardon. It's best recited in a quiet place where you can concentrate, perhaps after Fajr prayer while sitting on your prayer mat.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentioned a profound benefit of seeking forgiveness 100 times daily. He said: 'By Allah, I seek Allah's forgiveness more than seventy times a day, and I turn to Him.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6306). Another narration states: 'Whoever says 'Astaghfirullah' one hundred times a day, his sins will be erased even if they are as abundant as the foam of the sea.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 3800 - Hasan). This practice not only cleanses our sins but also opens the doors to Allah's mercy, blessings, and provisions, as Allah says: 'And, [moreover], seek forgiveness of your Lord and repent to Him, [for] indeed my Lord is Merciful and Affectionate.' (Surah Hud 11:90)
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'O people, turn to Allah and seek His forgiveness. I seek His forgiveness one hundred times a day.' (Sahih Muslim 2704). Another narration from the Prophet ﷺ states: 'Whoever says: 'Subhan Allahi wa bihamdihi' (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him) one hundred times a day, his sins will be forgiven even if they were as abundant as the foam of the sea.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6405). While this specific hadith focuses on 'Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi', the general principle of consistent dhikr and istighfar holds immense weight. The practice of saying 'Astaghfirullah' 100 times is a widely accepted and encouraged form of seeking forgiveness, supported by the general emphasis on istighfar in both Quran and Sunnah.