اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَيْرَ هَذَا الأَمْرِ وَخَيْرَ مَا فِيهِ وَخَيْرَ مَا جُبِلَ عَلَيْهِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ هَذَا الأَمْرِ وَشَرِّ مَا فِيهِ وَشَرِّ مَا جُبِلَ عَلَيْهِ
O Allah, I ask You for the goodness of this matter and the goodness of what is in it and the goodness of what it is endowed with. And I seek refuge in You from the evil of this matter and the evil of what is in it and the evil of what it is endowed with.
Allahumma inni as'aluka khayra hadhal-amri wa khayra ma feehi wa khayra ma jubila 'alayhi, wa a'udhu bika min sharri hadhal-amri wa sharri ma feehi wa sharri ma jubila 'alayhi.
When to Read
This comprehensive dua is perfect for reciting when embarking on any significant new phase, including retirement. Say it when you feel the transition is imminent, or on the very first day of your retirement. It’s a way to consciously place your trust in Allah and seek His blessings as you step into this new chapter, allowing you to approach it with a heart full of hope and reliance on the Almighty.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a clear heart, facing the Qiblah if possible, though it's not a strict condition. Raise your hands as you would when making other supplications. Reflect on the words, understanding that you are entrusting all aspects of this new journey – its opportunities and its challenges – to Allah's wisdom and mercy. Ensure you understand the meaning behind each phrase to connect with it on a deeper level.
Virtues & Benefits
By reciting this dua, you are actively seeking Allah's guidance and protection as you navigate the unknown. It helps to frame your perspective, focusing on seeking the good and warding off potential harms. This can lead to a more positive and fulfilling retirement, where you are able to embrace new activities and responsibilities with confidence, knowing you have sought the best from the One who controls all affairs. It cultivates patience and reliance (tawakkul) in Allah, which are essential for contentment in any stage of life.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to teach his companions, when setting out for a purpose, to seek the good of that purpose and seek refuge from its evil. This specific wording is used when a person is undertaking a new task or endeavor. In this context, retirement is a significant undertaking, a new path that requires seeking Allah's best.