اللَّهُمَّ رَادَّ الضَّالَّةِ، هَادِيَ الضَّالَّةِ، تَهْدِي مِنَ الضَّلاَلَةِ، رُدَّ عَلَيَّ ضَالَّتِي بِقُدْرَتِكَ وَسُلْطَانِكَ، فَإِنَّهَا مِنْ فَضْلِكَ وَعَطَائِكَ
O Allah, the Restorer of the lost, the Guide of the astray, You guide from misguidance. Restore to me my lost possession by Your power and Your authority, for it is from Your grace and Your giving.
Allahumma raddad-dhallaati, hadiyad-dhallaati, tahdi minad-dalalati, rudda 'alayya dhallati bi qudratika wa sultanika, fa innaha min fadlika wa 'ata'ika.
When to Read
This dua is specifically for when you have lost something and are seeking Allah's help to find it. It is particularly potent when recited during the blessed time of Tahajjud (the night prayer), as the last third of the night is a time when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and answers the supplications of those who call upon Him.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and full conviction that Allah alone can restore what is lost. Focus on the meaning of the words, acknowledging Allah's power and grace. While this specific wording is attributed to finding lost items, the act of making dua during Tahajjud itself is a profound spiritual practice. You can raise your hands, face the Qiblah, and pour your heart out to Allah.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking Allah's help for the return of a lost item is a manifestation of Tawakkul (reliance on Allah). Reciting this dua during Tahajjud amplifies the sincerity of the supplication, as this is a time of deep spiritual connection and heightened chance of acceptance. It reminds us that even seemingly small worldly problems can be presented to Allah, strengthening our relationship with Him.
Source & Authentication
A man came to the Prophet ﷺ and said: 'O Messenger of Allah, what have I missed of the night prayer?' He said: 'What have you missed of prayer?' The man said: 'I have missed the prayer because so-and-so rode my camel and it went astray.' He said: 'A matter which has happened to you is less important than what you have missed of the night prayer.' Then the Prophet ﷺ said: 'O Allah, Restorer of the lost, Guide of the astray, You guide from misguidance. Restore to me my lost camel by Your power and Your authority, for it is from Your grace and Your giving.' So his camel came to him. (Slight variation in wording and context in different narrations, but the core dua is preserved.)