اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
O Allah, You are the Pardoner, and You love to pardon, so pardon me.
Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni
When to Read
This powerful dua is specifically recommended for Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree), the most blessed night of the year. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged its recitation during this night, particularly when Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) asked him what she should say if she knew which night was Laylatul Qadr. It's a beautiful expression of seeking Allah's forgiveness at a time when supplications are greatly valued.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a humble heart. It is often repeated multiple times, especially during the night vigils of Laylatul Qadr. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's pardon and acknowledge His attribute of being the Pardoner, Who loves to forgive. Raising your hands in supplication is also a sunnah practice during dua.
Virtues & Benefits
The primary benefit of this dua is seeking Allah's immense forgiveness. Laylatul Qadr is a night of immense blessings where acts of worship are better than a thousand months. By reciting this dua, we are directly asking the One who loves to pardon to forgive our sins, which is the greatest achievement for a believer. The Hadith itself highlights the importance of this dua in the context of seeking Allah's pardon.
Source & Authentication
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated: I asked, 'O Messenger of Allah, what if I knew which night Laylatul Qadr was? What should I say during it?' He ﷺ replied: 'Say: Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni (O Allah, You are the Pardoner, and You love to pardon, so pardon me).' — Sunan Ibn Majah 3850, Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3513. At-Tirmidhi mentioned it is Hasan Sahih.