اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning, You love to pardon, so pardon me.
Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni
When to Read
This is the quintessential dua for Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ specifically advised his wife 'Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) to recite this when she asked him what to say during this blessed night. It is most fitting to recite it frequently during the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially in the odd-numbered nights, as we strive to catch Laylat al-Qadr.
How to Read
This dua is beautifully concise and profoundly meaningful. Recite it with sincere intention, focusing on your need for Allah's forgiveness. Raising your hands is a sunnah during supplication. Believe in Allah's mercy and His love for granting pardon. Repeat it multiple times, letting the words sink into your heart, especially during the times when Allah descends to the lowest heaven. Reflect on your actions throughout the year and seek Allah's cleansing grace.
Virtues & Benefits
Laylat al-Qadr is a night described in the Quran as being 'better than a thousand months' (Al-Qadr 97:3). The primary benefit of dedicating this night to worship, including this dua, is the immense reward associated with it. 'Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet ﷺ said: 'Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and seeking reward, he will be forgiven for all his previous sins.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 1901, Sahih Muslim 760). This specific dua, 'Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni', directly seeks the pardon (Afw) of Allah, which is a central theme of Laylat al-Qadr. By asking for 'Afw', we are asking Allah to cover our sins and overlook our faults, granting us purity and a fresh start.
Source & Authentication
I asked: 'O Messenger of Allah, what should I say if I find Laylat al-Qadr?' He said: 'Say: O Allah, You are Pardoning, and You love pardoning, so pardon me.' (Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni). — Sunan Ibn Majah 3850, graded Hasan by scholars.