اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنَا وَاهْدِ بِنَا وَاجْعَلْنَا سَبَبًا لِمَنْ اهْتَدَى، رَبِّ هَبْ لِي مِنَ الصَّالِحِينَ
O Allah, guide us and guide through us, and make us a cause for those who are guided. My Lord, grant me from among the righteous.
Allahumma ihdina wa-hdina bina waj'alna sababan liman ihtada. Rabbi hab li minas-salihin.
When to Read
This dua is particularly powerful when you feel concern for brothers and sisters who have strayed from the path of Islam, whether through disbelief, major sins, or simply a lack of adherence to religious practice. Recite it during the blessed times, such as the last third of the night, between Dhuhr and Asr on a Friday, or after any obligatory prayer. Keep it as a constant plea in your heart and on your tongue, especially during times of hardship and when witnessing societal challenges that lead people away from faith.
How to Read
Begin with sincerity and conviction, remembering that guidance is solely in the hands of Allah. Raise your hands in supplication, a gesture of humility and reliance on your Creator. Recite the dua with a clear intention for the well-being and return of your brothers and sisters in faith. Understand that the first part of the dua asks Allah to guide *us* and to make *us* a means of guidance for others, reflecting our own responsibility. The second part, from Surah As-Saffat, is the prophetic supplication of Ibrahim (peace be upon him) for righteous offspring, which can be extended to seeking righteousness for the entire Ummah. Make the dua with a hopeful heart, knowing Allah hears every sincere plea.
Virtues & Benefits
The primary benefit is fulfilling our Islamic duty to care for our fellow Muslims and striving for the betterment of the Ummah. By asking Allah to make us a means of guidance, we open ourselves to being used by Him to positively influence others. This dua reflects the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood emphasized in Islam, where the well-being of one is tied to the well-being of all. It also teaches us humility by acknowledging that guidance is a gift from Allah, and that we too need to be guided and to remain steadfast. Asking for righteous offspring or righteous members of the community is a beautiful reflection of seeking blessings for future generations.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from 'Abdullah bin 'Amr that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'The best of supplication is 'La ilaha illallah, wa al-hamdu lillah, wa subhanallah, wa Allahu Akbar' (There is no god but Allah, and praise be to Allah, and glory be to Allah, and Allah is the Greatest), and the best of remembrance is (saying these words). And the best of supplication is 'Allahumma ihdina wa-hdina bina waj'alna sababan liman ihtada' (O Allah, guide us and guide through us, and make us a cause for those who are guided).