اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَيْرَهَا وَخَيْرَ مَا جَبَلْتَهَا عَلَيْهِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّهَا وَشَرِّ مَا جَبَلْتَهَا عَلَيْهِ
O Allah, I ask You for its [the spouse's] goodness and the goodness of that which You have decreed for her, and I seek refuge in You from her evil and the evil of that which You have decreed for her.
Allahumma inni as'aluka khayraha wa khayra ma jabaltaha 'alayh, wa a'udhu bika min sharriha wa sharri ma jabaltaha 'alayh.
When to Read
This dua is specifically taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to be recited when one is about to marry someone. It's the perfect dua to make when you've found someone you wish to marry but want to ensure Allah's blessings and protection over the union, especially if there are perceived obstacles or uncertainties. Recite it before the marriage contract (nikah) and continue making it throughout the marriage.
How to Read
Ideally, this dua should be recited by the prospective groom before the marriage contract. If it's difficult for him, it can be recited by the bride's guardian (wali) or even by the bride herself in her personal supplications. Focus on the meaning and sincerity of your request to Allah. It's best to be in a state of wudu (ablution) and face the Qiblah, though these are not strict requirements for a sincere dua.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua seeks the best from Allah for the future spouse and the union itself. It acknowledges Allah's knowledge of what is truly good and what is not. By seeking refuge in Allah from any potential evil or negative traits, you are entrusting the marriage to His wisdom and protection. It's a way to start a marriage on a foundation of Taqwa (consciousness of Allah) and reliance on Him, which is crucial for navigating any challenges that may arise, including those related to the marriage process itself.
Source & Authentication
When one of you marries a woman, he should take hold of her forelock and supplicate for blessing (barakah) and recite: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka khayraha wa khayra ma jabaltaha 'alayh, wa a'udhu bika min sharriha wa sharri ma jabaltaha 'alayh.' (O Allah, I ask You for its goodness and the goodness of that which You have decreed for her, and I seek refuge in You from her evil and the evil of that which You have decreed for her.)