رَبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَهَبْ لِي مُلْكًا لَّا يَنبَغِي لِأَحَدٍ مِّن بَعْدِي ۖ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ الْوَهَّابُ
My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not be attained by anyone after me. Indeed, You are the Bestower.
Rabbighfir li wa hab li mulkal laa yanbaghi li ahadim mim ba'di, innaka antal Wahhab.
When to Read
This powerful dua was made by Prophet Dawud (peace be upon him) when he was tested. While the exact wording is from the Quran for this specific request of a unique kingdom, the underlying themes of seeking forgiveness, divine endowment, and acknowledging Allah's absolute power are relevant for anyone seeking strength, wisdom, and a just dominion over their affairs, whether it be in leadership, family, or personal endeavors. We can draw inspiration from it when asking Allah for the ability to manage responsibilities with justice and integrity.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, understanding its profound meaning. Focus on the concepts of seeking forgiveness for any shortcomings, asking Allah to bestow upon you the capacity and authority to fulfill your duties justly, and recognizing that all power and ability ultimately come from Him, the Supreme Bestower. It is best recited during times of reflection, perhaps after prayers, or when embarking on a significant responsibility that requires divine guidance and strength.
Virtues & Benefits
This ayah highlights the humility of a prophet of Allah, seeking forgiveness even in the midst of divine favor. It demonstrates the proper way to make dua, acknowledging Allah's absolute sovereignty and boundless generosity ('Al-Wahhab'). By asking for a kingdom 'such as will not be attained by anyone after me,' Prophet Dawud (peace be upon him) was not seeking personal glory but rather a unique mandate to establish justice and uphold Allah's law, free from the complications of succession or conflicting rule. This teaches us to seek abilities and capacities that are specifically suited to fulfilling Allah's commands in our own contexts, with the ultimate aim of pleasing Him.