اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي، وَارْحَمْنِي، وَاهْدِنِي، وَاجْبُرْنِي، وَعَافِنِي، وَارْزُقْنِي، وَارْفَعْنِي
O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, support me, protect me, provide for me, and elevate me.
Allahumma-ghfir li, war-hamni, wah-dini, wajburni, wa 'afini, warzuqni, warfa'ni
When to Read
This comprehensive supplication can be recited during the optional prayers (nafl) and is particularly poignant for the elderly. As one's strength wanes and reliance on Allah increases, seeking His forgiveness, mercy, guidance, sufficiency, well-being, provision, and elevation becomes even more crucial. It's a beautiful prayer to utter after the obligatory prayers (fard) as well, encapsulating a profound need for Allah's continuous support throughout life's later stages.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Raise your hands in supplication, as is the sunnah when making dua. Focus on the meaning of each request, internalizing your need for Allah's mercy and support. It is recommended to repeat the phrases, particularly 'Allahumma-ghfir li' (O Allah, forgive me) and 'war-hamni' (and have mercy on me), as the Prophet ﷺ often repeated supplications for emphasis.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua covers key aspects of a Muslim's life, encompassing spiritual, physical, and worldly well-being. Seeking forgiveness and mercy is paramount, especially in old age when one reflects more on their deeds. Guidance ensures one stays on the straight path, while seeking support ('ajburni') is vital for overcoming difficulties and ailments often faced by the elderly. Asking for protection ('afini') and provision ('arzuqni') addresses fundamental human needs. The request for elevation ('arfa'ni') can refer to elevation in status in this life and the next. This single, beautiful supplication encapsulates the essence of total reliance on Allah.
Source & Authentication
The hadith from Sahih Muslim (2697) where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught this comprehensive dua is as follows: Narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet ﷺ used to say in his supplication: اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي، وَارْحَمْنِي، وَاهْدِنِي، وَاجْبُرْنِي، وَعَافِنِي، وَارْزُقْنِي، وَارْفَعْنِي 'O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, support me, protect me, provide for me, and elevate me.'