Allahumma aj’alna min al-mutawadhi’een li-‘ibadik Meaning
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**Explanation of “اللهم ارزقنا توبة قبل الموت” (O Allah, grant us repentance before death):**
This supplication is a humble request to Allah for the blessing of sincere repentance (*tawbah*) before death arrives. It reflects a deep awareness of human weakness, the consequences of sin, and the necessity of returning to Allah with remorse and correction.
**1. Meaning of Repentance (Tawbah):**
Repentance in Islam is not merely feeling regret but involves:
- **Acknowledging the sin** (without justification).
- **Feeling sincere remorse** for disobeying Allah.
- **Stopping the sin immediately.**
- **Firm resolve not to return to it.**
- **Making amends** (if the sin involved others’ rights).
**2. Why Before Death?**
- Death is unpredictable; delaying repentance risks dying in a state of disobedience.
- Allah warns in the Quran:
*”But repentance is not [accepted] of those who [continue to] do evil deeds up until, when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘Indeed, I have repented now…’”* (Quran 4:18)
- True believers constantly seek purification, knowing sins burden the soul.
**3. Spiritual Benefits of This Dua:**
- **Protection from a bad ending** (su’ al-khatimah).
- **Divine acceptance**—Allah loves those who repent (Quran 2:222).
- **Erasure of sins** and elevation in rank (Quran 25:70).
**4. Practical Steps Alongside the Dua:**
- **Regular self-accountability** (muhasabah).
- **Seeking forgiveness often** (e.g., saying *Astaghfirullah*).
- **Performing good deeds** to replace past wrongs.
**Conclusion:**
This prayer embodies a believer’s urgency to reconcile with Allah, purify the heart, and secure a hopeful return to Him. It is both a plea for mercy and a commitment to spiritual growth.
**May Allah grant us all sincere repentance and a righteous end.** آمين.
When to Use:
1. **Daily Supplications (Dua):**
Muslims may recite this prayer regularly, especially during personal supplications, seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness before their time of death arrives.
2. **Repentance (Tawbah):**
Used when seeking sincere repentance for sins, as a reminder to turn to Allah before it’s too late.
3. **Moments of Reflection:**
Recited during self-assessment, such as after Salah (prayer), at night (Tahajjud), or when contemplating life’s purpose.
4. **Times of Distress or Guilt:**
Uttered when feeling regret over past mistakes, asking Allah for a chance to rectify one’s deeds.
5. **Before Sleep or Facing Uncertainty:**
Said as a precautionary plea, acknowledging life’s unpredictability and the need for a purified heart.
6. **Islamic Gatherings or Sermons:**
Mentioned in religious lectures to emphasize the importance of repentance and preparing for the afterlife.
7. **During Illness or Old Age:**
Recited when facing mortality, seeking Allah’s acceptance of repentance before death.
8. **After Committing a Sin:**
Used as an immediate response to wrongdoing, reaffirming reliance on Allah’s forgiveness.
9. **In Times of Spiritual Weakness:**
A reminder to renew faith and seek Allah’s help in staying steadfast.
10. **Funerals or Remembering Death (Dhikr al-Mawt):**
Encouraged when reflecting on the transient nature of life and the urgency of repentance.
This dua reflects humility, dependence on Allah, and the Islamic teaching that sincere repentance is always possible until the final moment of life.