اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْهُدَى وَالتُّقَى وَالْعَفَافَ وَالْغِنَى.
O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and self-sufficiency (or richness).
Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina.
When to Read
This is a comprehensive dua that can be recited at any time, but it's particularly potent when seeking balance in your life. You might find yourself drawn to it during times of financial uncertainty, or when you feel overwhelmed by worldly possessions and the responsibilities they bring. It's a prayer for inner peace and contentment, regardless of your external circumstances.
How to Read
This dua is best recited with sincere intention and a humble heart. Raise your hands as you would for other supplications, facing the Qiblah if possible. Utter the words clearly, reflecting on each request: guidance to the right path, piety to fear Allah, chastity to remain pure in character and action, and self-sufficiency to be content with what Allah has provided, whether little or much. It's a prayer that can be repeated throughout the day, especially after obligatory prayers.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua encompasses a request for the best of both worlds. 'Guidance' (al-huda) means being shown the truth and acting upon it. 'Piety' (at-tuqa) means cultivating the fear of Allah, which prevents one from falling into sin. 'Chastity' (al-'afaf) refers to abstaining from what is unlawful, both in terms of sustenance and behavior. 'Self-sufficiency' or 'richness' (al-ghina) is not just about material wealth, but about being content and not needing to beg from creation, which is a form of true spiritual wealth. By asking for these, the Prophet ﷺ showed us how to seek a balanced life, protected from the destructive extremes of both severe poverty and excessive, heedless wealth. This comprehensive request aims to safeguard our faith and our peace of mind.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah bin Masud: The Prophet ﷺ used to supplicate: Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina. (Allahumma inni as'aluka al-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina). Translation: O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and self-sufficiency.