اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ حُسْنَ الْخَاتِمَةِ وَتَوَفَّنِي مَعَ الأَبْرَارِ
O Allah, I ask You for a good end and to let me die among the righteous.
Allahumma inni as'aluka husnal-khatimah wa tawaffani ma'al-abrar
When to Read
This is a profound dua that can be recited at any time, but it is especially poignant to remember when reflecting on life, its purpose, and our ultimate return to Allah. Many find it beneficial to make this a regular part of their supplications after prayers, or during times of quiet contemplation. It's a constant reminder of our need for Allah's mercy at the very end.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a sincere heart. Focus on the meaning of the words, truly asking Allah to grant you a noble end. It's recommended to raise your hands as you make dua, a practice of the Prophet ﷺ, and to face the Qiblah if possible, while maintaining a state of purity.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly asks Allah for two incredibly significant blessings: 'husnal-khatimah' (a good end) and to be gathered with the 'abrar' (the righteous). A good end is the ultimate success in Islam; it means dying in a state of faith, having fulfilled our obligations to Allah and His creation. Dying among the righteous ensures companionship with the best of people in the afterlife, those who have earned Allah's pleasure. The reliability of the chain for this hadith, even if classified as Hasan, underscores its importance as a supplication taught and utilized by those close to the Prophet ﷺ.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Thawban (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'When a man's limbs weaken and his years grow old, and his time is near, then Satan comes to him, eager and hopeful, saying: 'O old man! O old man! What do you have for me?' And he will say: 'What do I have for you?' And Satan will say: 'I have knowledge that I have learned and memorized, and I have left it with my children and my family.' And Thawban said: 'I think he said: And he said: And I have left it with my children and my family.' Then Satan will say: 'I have wealth that I have gathered and I have left it for my children and my family.' Then Satan will say: 'There is nothing with you.' Then he will say: 'O Allah, I ask You for a good end and to let me die among the righteous.' (Musnad Ahmad 22762). This narration highlights the crucial moments before death, when Shaytan's temptation is strongest. The Prophet's ﷺ teaching of this specific dua is a profound guidance for believers to seek Allah's protection and mercy when most vulnerable.