اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي وَسَدِّدْنِي وَاذْكُرْ بِالْهُدَى هِدَايَتَكَ الطَّرِيقَ، وَالسَّدَادِ سَدَادَ السَّهْمِ
O Allah, guide me and make me firm (in my guidance), and mention by way of guidance, Your guidance for the path, and by way of firmness, the firmness of an arrow.
Allahumma ihdini wa saddidni, wadhkur bilhuda hidayatak at-tareeq, was-sadadi sadad as-sahm.
When to Read
This beautiful dua is recommended to be recited in the supererogatory (nafl) prayers, particularly after the Tashahhud and before the Tasleem. It's a prayer for profound guidance and steadfastness that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself made a habit of reciting. Imagine yourself in the stillness of prayer, reaching out to Allah for the clarity to navigate life's complexities and the strength to stay on the right path. This is the perfect moment to seek that divine assistance.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus after completing the Tashahhud in your voluntary prayers. Raise your hands slightly, as one would do when making dua after Tashahhud but before the final Tasleem. Feel the meaning of the words: asking Allah to illuminate your path and to grant you the unwavering resolve of a perfectly balanced arrow. Let your heart be present as you utter each word, connecting with the significance of seeking Allah's guidance and firmness.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates two fundamental aspects of a believer's life: guidance (hidayah) and steadfastness (sadad). Seeking Allah's guidance is crucial for making the right choices, understanding His commands, and living a life pleasing to Him. Steadfastness ensures we can implement that guidance, remaining firm against distractions and challenges. The Prophet's ﷺ constant reliance on this dua highlights its immense importance in seeking Allah's help to stay on the straight path, a path that leads to success in this life and the hereafter. It’s a comprehensive request for spiritual direction and the strength to follow it.
Source & Authentication
The narration states: 'The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate after the Tashahhud (and before the Tasleem) thus: 'Allahumma ihdini wa saddidni, wadhkur bilhuda hidayatak at-tareeq, was-sadadi sadad as-sahm.'' (Sunan Abu Dawood 764). This indicates that the Prophet ﷺ was diligent in seeking these qualities of guidance and firmness in his supplications during prayer.