اللَّهُمَّ أَعِنِّي عَلَى ذِكْرِكَ وَشُكْرِكَ وَحُسْنِ عِبَادَتِكَ
O Allah, help me to remember You, to give thanks to You, and to worship You in the best manner.
Allahumma a'inni 'ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni 'ibadatika
When to Read
This dua is especially potent during the blessed time of Suhoor in Ramadan. As you prepare your meal before dawn, a moment often filled with a mix of fatigue and anticipation, reciting this can set a tone of mindfulness and gratitude for the opportunity to fast and worship. It's a beautiful way to begin the day's fast, focusing your intention on seeking Allah's assistance for spiritual diligence.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a focused heart. Make a conscious effort to understand its meaning as you say it. Ideally, say it before you begin eating your Suhoor meal, or at any point during it when you feel your focus drifting. The act of reciting it is an acknowledgment of our own limitations and a sincere plea for divine support.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to a man who was struggling with his prayers, is a comprehensive request for spiritual well-being. By asking for help in remembrance (dhikr), gratitude (shukr), and excellent worship (husn 'ibadah), we are essentially seeking Allah's aid in fulfilling our purpose as His servants. During Suhoor, this translates to asking for the energy and clarity to remain aware of Allah throughout the fast, to be thankful for the provision of Suhoor and the blessing of fasting, and to perform our prayers and other acts of worship with devotion and excellence, even when tired.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ saw a man (who was praying) hitting his knees while praying. He said: 'O Abu Razin, do you pray like this? Pray as if you are saying farewell to the world.' He then said: 'O Allah, help me to remember You, and to give thanks to You, and to worship You in the best manner.' He said: 'This is for you and for whoever hears it.' (Sunan Abi Dawud 1522, graded Hasan by Al-Albani)