اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا، وَزَكِّهَا أَنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا، أَنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلاَهَا، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لاَ يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لاَ يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لاَ تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دَعْوَةٍ لاَ يُسْتَجَابُ لَهَا
O Allah, grant my soul its piety, and purify it, for You are the best to purify it. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear (You), from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.
Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkaha anta khayru man zakkaha, anta waliyyuha wa mawlaha. Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min da'watin la yustajabu laha.
When to Read
This is a profound dua that can be recited at any time, but it is particularly poignant during the late hours of the night when one is reflecting, or after salah. It’s a constant reminder to seek Allah’s help in managing our inner selves, especially when we feel our desires or negative inclinations taking hold.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a humble heart, reflecting on each phrase. It's best to say it while facing the Qiblah, if possible, and with a clear mind. Understand that asking Allah for piety and purification is a continuous process, not a one-time request.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly addresses the internal struggles we all face. By asking Allah for 'taqwa' (consciousness of Allah, piety), we are seeking His help to align our actions with His commands and prohibitions. Asking for purification acknowledges that we cannot achieve spiritual cleanliness on our own. Seeking refuge from useless knowledge, a fearful heart, an insatiable soul, and unanswered prayers are all crucial aspects of seeking Allah's protection for our well-being in this life and the next.
Source & Authentication
Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to supplicate: 'O Allah, grant my soul its piety, and purify it, for You are the best to purify it. You are its Guardian and its Master. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear (You), from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.' (Sahih Muslim 1577).