ุฑูุจูู ุฅููููู ุธูููู ูุชู ููููุณูู ูู ุงุบูููุฑู ููู
My Lord, indeed I have wronged myself, so forgive me.
Rabbi inni zalamtu nafsi faghfir li
When to Read
This powerful dua is uttered by Prophet Musa (Moses) (peace be upon him) when he inadvertently killed a man from the Coptic people. It's a profound expression of acknowledging one's mistakes, sin, and the immediate need for Allah's forgiveness. We can recite this dua whenever we realize we've fallen short, made a mistake, or committed a sin, big or small. It's a sincere plea for mercy and a recognition of our own shortcomings before our Creator. The beauty of this dua lies in its directness and its embodiment of tawbah (repentance).
How to Read
Recite this dua with a sincere heart, acknowledging your wrongdoings without making excuses. Understand that the act of asking for forgiveness is itself a form of worship and a means of drawing closer to Allah. It's not just the words, but the feeling of regret and the intention to amend your ways that hold significance. Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) uttered this in a moment of distress and immediate realization of error. We can adopt a similar humble and contrite attitude when reciting it.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a direct supplication from the Quran, made by one of Allah's greatest prophets. Its primary benefit is seeking and obtaining Allah's forgiveness (maghfirah). By acknowledging our sins ('zalamtu nafsi' - I have wronged myself), we open the door to Allah's boundless mercy. It reminds us that no one is perfect and that turning back to Allah is always an option. It fosters humility and dependence on Allah, cultivating a constant state of repentance and remembrance.