Allahumma arzuqna at-tawbata an-nasuh. Meaning
Arabic Text:
Transliteration:
Translation:
Word Meaning:
Meaning of the Phrase:
The phrase translates to: “O Allah, grant us sincere repentance.”
– “اللهم” (Allahumma): “O Allah” – an invocation calling upon Allah.
– “ارزقنا” (arzuqna): “Grant us” – a request for provision or blessing.
– “التوبة النصوح” (at-tawbat an-nasooh): “Sincere repentance” – a repentance that is pure, truthful, and free from hypocrisy.
Explanation of “Sincere Repentance” (التوبة النصوح):
Sincere repentance (tawbat an-nasooh) is a deep, heartfelt turning back to Allah with the following qualities:
1. Genuine Remorse: Feeling true regret for past sins.
2. Immediate Cessation: Stopping the sin completely.
3. Firm Resolution: Deciding never to return to the sin.
4. Restitution (if applicable): Making amends for wrongs done to others (e.g., returning stolen wealth, seeking forgiveness from those harmed).
5. Increased Good Deeds: Compensating with righteous actions, such as prayer, charity, and obedience to Allah.
Why Ask for “Sincere Repentance”?
– Repentance is a means of purification for the soul.
– Allah loves those who repent sincerely (Quran 2:222).
– Without sincerity, repentance may not be accepted.
– It protects a person from repeating sins and strengthens their faith.
When to Say This Dua?
– After committing a sin.
– During times of self-reflection (e.g., before sleeping, after prayers).
– In moments of seeking Allah’s mercy (e.g., during the last third of the night).
Hadith Reference:
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“The one who repents from sin is like the one who has no sin.” (Ibn Majah)
He also described sincere repentance as:
“Regretting (the sin), seeking forgiveness, and not returning to it.”
Conclusion:
This supplication is a humble request for Allah’s help in achieving true repentance—one that erases sins, reforms the heart, and brings a person closer to Allah.
When to Use:
1. Daily Supplications:
Muslims may recite this dua regularly, especially after prayers, seeking Allah’s help in attaining sincere repentance for past sins.
2. After Committing a Sin:
A person who has wronged may use this prayer to seek forgiveness, expressing remorse and a firm intention not to repeat the sin.
3. During Repentance (Tawbah):
When actively turning back to Allah, this phrase reinforces the desire for a pure, accepted repentance free from hypocrisy or relapse.
4. In Times of Distress:
Those feeling spiritually weak or burdened by guilt may recite it to seek Allah’s assistance in renewing their faith and cleansing their heart.
5. Before Sleep or at Dawn (Tahajjud):
It is often recited during late-night prayers or early morning hours, times considered blessed for sincere supplication.
6. During Ramadan or Spiritual Retreats:
Muslims frequently seek repentance in sacred months or periods of worship, making this dua particularly relevant.
7. After Quranic Recitation or Reminders:
Hearing or reading about repentance in the Quran or sermons may prompt believers to sincerely ask Allah for Tawbah Nasooh (genuine repentance).
8. For Others:
Parents, scholars, or friends may pray this for fellow Muslims, asking Allah to guide them to sincere repentance.
9. During Major Life Changes:
When seeking a fresh start—such as after addiction, dishonesty, or neglect of faith—this dua reflects a deep yearning for spiritual renewal.
10. In Congregational Duas:
Imams or groups may collectively recite it, especially during gatherings focused on forgiveness (e.g., Majlis al-Dhikr).
Note: The phrase emphasizes Nasooh (sincere, untainted repentance), distinguishing it from superficial remorse. It aligns with Quranic teachings (e.g., Surah At-Tahrim 66:8) and Hadiths stressing Allah’s love for those who repent.