اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَلِوَالِدَيَّ وَارْحَمْهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِي صَغِيرًا
O Allah, forgive me and my parents, and have mercy on them as they had mercy on me when I was young.
Allahummaghfir li wa liwalidayya, warhamhuma kama rabbayani saghira
When to Read
This dua is particularly poignant during the final days of a parent's life, as they may be experiencing weakness or illness. It's a beautiful supplication to make continuously for them, asking Allah to envelop them in His mercy and ease their transition. It can also be recited at any time to honor and seek blessings for your parents.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Face the Qiblah if possible, raise your hands, and focus on the meaning. Make it a regular part of your supplications, especially after prayers or during moments of reflection. Remember to also be present with your parents, offer them comfort, and fulfil their needs as much as you are able.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua embodies the profound Islamic obligation to honor one's parents, even after their passing or during their final moments. By asking for Allah's forgiveness and mercy for them, we are fulfilling a continuous act of kindness and obedience. The Quran itself emphasizes the importance of this: "And lower upon them the wing of humility out of compassion, and say, 'My Lord, have mercy on them, as they had mercy on me, [when I covered] the small child.'" (Al-Isra 17:24). This dua is a direct reflection of that divine instruction, acknowledging their sacrifices and seeking Allah’s ultimate reward for them.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: 'When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: an ongoing charity, knowledge that is benefited from, or a righteous child who prays for him.' (Sunan Abi Dawud 1514). While this specific dua is not the direct wording of the hadith about ongoing charity, the spirit of a righteous child praying for their parents is captured. The verse from Surah Al-Isra (17:24) further supports the sentiment of asking Allah to have mercy on parents as they had mercy on us.