اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِلْمُسْلِمِينَ وَالْمُسْلِمَاتِ، وَالْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ، الأَحْيَاءِ مِنْهُمْ وَالأَمْوَاتِ، إِنَّكَ سَمِيعٌ قَرِيبٌ مُجِيبُ الدَّعَوَاتِ.
O Allah, forgive the Muslim men and Muslim women, and the believing men and believing women, those who are alive among them and those who have died. Indeed, You are All-Hearing, Ever-Near, and the Responder of prayers.
Allahummaghfir lil muslimina wal muslimati, wal mu'minina wal mu'minati, al-ahya'i minhum wal amwati, innaka samiu'un qaribun mujibul da'awat.
When to Read
This is a general supplication for forgiveness and mercy, particularly beneficial to recite during times when one feels the weight of loss or loneliness, or after prayers. It's a beautiful way for elderly individuals, especially those who have lost a spouse, to connect with the broader community of believers and seek Allah's encompassing mercy for themselves and for all.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, focusing on the meaning of seeking Allah's forgiveness and mercy. Imagine Allah hearing your plea and responding. Raising your hands during dua is a sunnah, and it is often recommended to face the Qiblah. Ensure you are in a state of Wudu if possible, though it is not strictly a condition for this type of supplication.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses a profound request for Allah's forgiveness for all Muslims, living and deceased. For an elderly widow or widower, it offers immense comfort by reminding them that they are not alone in their supplications; they are calling upon Allah alongside a vast community. It affirms Allah's attributes as the All-Hearing, All-Near, and the One who answers prayers, fostering hope and reliance on Him. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this very comprehensive supplication, indicating its immense value and the breadth of its benefit.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever seeks forgiveness for believing men and women, Allah will write for him a good deed for each believing man and woman.' [Sahih Muslim 1015]. Another narration states: 'Indeed, Allah has appointed an angel who is present at the time of every prayer. That angel, at the end of the prayer, calls out: 'O Allah, forgive those who pray!' And Allah the Almighty says: 'I have done it.' And when the slave says: 'O Allah, forgive the believing men and women,' Allah says: 'I have done it.'