اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْهُدَى وَالتُّقَى وَالْعَفَافَ وَالْغِنَى
O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and 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, particularly during the times when supplication is readily answered, such as after prayers, during the last third of the night, or when breaking your fast. It's especially poignant to recite when you feel a need for divine guidance or are facing a situation where relying solely on your own capabilities might lead to error or distress.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Raise your hands as you would during other supplications. Believe that Allah (SWT) is the one who grants guidance, protection, and contentment. It is recommended to repeat it, especially at the end of your obligatory prayers. Ensure you understand the meaning of each word – seeking guidance (huda), consciousness of Allah (taqwa), purity and self-restraint ('afaf), and contentment/sufficiency (ghina).
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua encompasses seeking the best for oneself in this life and the hereafter. Asking for guidance (huda) protects us from straying from the right path. Seeking piety (tuqa) ensures we remain conscious of Allah in all our dealings. Asking for chastity ('afaf) protects us from falling into forbidden acts and secures our dignity. Finally, asking for richness or contentment (ghina) means asking Allah to make us independent of need from creation and satisfied with what He has provided, thus protecting us from the distress of relying solely on our own limited resources or intellect, which could lead us astray. This comprehensive request safeguards us from being left to our own devices, which can be a profound form of deprivation.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah bin Mas'ud: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to supplicate: 'Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina.' (O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and richness.) — Sahih Muslim 2721. In another narration, it is mentioned that this dua was recited by the Prophet (peace be upon him) when he was supplicating to his Lord.