اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning. You love to pardon, so pardon me.
Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni
When to Read
This is the most recommended dua to recite during Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree. It is particularly poignant to say this repeatedly during the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially when performing optional night prayers (qiyam al-layl) or during sujood (prostration). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught this dua to his wife Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) when she asked him what to say on Laylatul Qadr.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a heartfelt desire for Allah's forgiveness. Understand the meaning deeply: acknowledge Allah's attribute of being Al-'Afuww (The Pardoner) and His love for pardoning. Raise your hands if you are in a private space or position yourself with humility. Repeat it often, especially in the last ten nights of Ramadan, seeking Allah's mercy and absolution.
Virtues & Benefits
The primary benefit is seeking and receiving Allah's forgiveness for sins. Laylatul Qadr is a night of immense blessings, where worship is better than a thousand months. By sincerely reciting this dua, one hopes to have their sins wiped away and to gain the immense reward associated with this blessed night. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that if she knew which night Laylatul Qadr was, she would not ask for anything other than this dua. This highlights its unparalleled significance for this specific night.
Source & Authentication
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: O Messenger of Allah, what do you think I should say in Laylatul Qadr? He said: Say: Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni. (O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning. You love to pardon, so pardon me). — Sunan Ibn Majah 3850