سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ، أَسْتَغْفِرُكَ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْكَ
Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You. There is no god but You. I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You in repentance.
Subhanakallahumma wa bihamdik, la ilaha illa ant, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk
When to Read
This beautiful dua is recited at the end of gatherings, but it is particularly poignant when observing the night sky. As you gaze upon the vast expanse, the distant stars, and the familiar constellations, let your heart overflow with awe at the Creator's perfect artistry. This is a moment to pause, reflect on the immense power and wisdom behind the celestial bodies, and turn to Allah with gratitude and remembrance.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and contemplation. As you speak the words, picture the limitless sky above you and the intricate beauty of Allah's creation. Feel the weight of your sins and the sincere desire to turn back to your Lord. The practice of reflecting on creation is a key aspect of deepening faith, and this dua serves as a perfect way to articulate that reflection.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught this dua as a means of expiating any shortcomings or inadvertent wrongdoings during a gathering. By reciting it after observing the constellations, you are acknowledging Allah's perfection and your own need for His forgiveness. It reinforces the understanding that even in moments of awe and wonder at His creation, our focus should remain on seeking His pleasure and acknowledging His dominion.
Source & Authentication
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ never used to sit while passing through anything or staying in it, except that he would say: 'Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You. I bear witness that there is no god but You. I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You in repentance.' When he was asked: 'O Messenger of Allah, what is this supplication?' He said: 'These are the words of expiation for what occurs in a gathering.' (Sunan Abi Dawud 3917, graded Hasan by Al-Albani)