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 the last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly recommended for Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged its recitation abundantly during these blessed nights.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a hopeful heart. It is best recited after fulfilling your obligatory prayers, during Tahajjud (night prayer), or at any moment you find yourself in reflection and seeking Allah's forgiveness. Raise your hands as you do with other supplications, acknowledging your need for Allah's mercy. Remember that the essence is the earnestness of the supplication, not just the mechanical recitation.
Virtues & Benefits
The primary benefit is seeking Allah's forgiveness, which is a profound act of worship. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ's instruction to the Mother of the Faithful, 'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), to recite this specific dua highlights its immense virtue. By seeking 'afw (pardon/forgiveness), we hope to have our sins erased, leading to a purer state before Allah. This focus on forgiveness aligns with the spiritual cleansing that Ramadan aims to achieve, especially in the final, most potent nights.
Source & Authentication
'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: I asked: 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know which night is Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say during it?' He replied: 'Say: Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni (O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning. You love to pardon, so pardon me.)' (Sunan Ibn Majah, graded Hasan by some scholars).