We often gather with friends and family for various reasons—meetings, celebrations, or simple discussions. But as we come together, it’s important to remember that we should end such gatherings on a note of gratitude and seeking forgiveness from Allah. This is where the beautiful Dua at the End of a Gathering comes in. It’s a simple yet profound dua that allows us to seek Allah’s forgiveness for anything wrong we might have said or done during the meeting.
The Dua
Here’s the full Arabic version of the Dua at the End of a Gathering along with its transliteration and Urdu translation:
سُبْحـانَكَ اللّهُـمَّ وَبِحَمدِك، أَشْهَـدُ أَنْ لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ أَسْتَغْفِرُكَ وَأَتوبُ إِلَـيْك
Transliteration: Subhaanaka Allaahumma wa bihamdika, ‘ash-hadu ‘an laa ‘ilaaha ‘illaa ‘Anta, ‘astaghfiruka wa ‘atoobu ‘ilayka
Translation:
“Glory is to You, O Allah, and praise is to You. I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship but You. I seek Your forgiveness and repent to You.”
Urdu Translation:
“پاک ہے تو اے اللہ! اور تیری ہی تعریف ہے، میں گواہی دیتا ہوں کہ تیرے سوا کوئی معبود نہیں، میں تجھ سے معافی مانگتا ہوں اور تیری طرف رجوع کرتا ہوں۔”
When to Recite This Dua
This dua is to be recited at the end of every gathering. Whether the gathering was for a religious purpose, a work meeting, or a casual get-together, this dua allows you to close the session on a note of repentance and humility. It is said that gatherings often have moments of forgetfulness, and this dua helps in seeking Allah’s forgiveness for any unintentional wrongdoings, inappropriate words, or negligence.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended this dua for its simplicity and for the powerful meaning behind it. If recited, it serves as an atonement for any sins or mistakes made during the gathering, as mentioned in Abu Dawud: 4859.
The Importance of Reciting This Dua
Reciting this dua serves multiple purposes. It reminds us that:
Humility is Key
We may sometimes say things that are unnecessary or even hurtful without realizing it. Ending a gathering by asking for forgiveness fosters humility.
Acknowledgement of Allah’s Glory
We begin and end our day by praising Allah, and this dua continues that habit of gratitude and worship.
Sealing a Gathering with Repentance
Repentance purifies us. By seeking forgiveness, we leave the gathering with a clean slate, ready to move forward in our spiritual journey.
Benefits of Reciting Dua at the End of a Gathering
Spiritual Cleanliness
This dua cleanses the heart by asking for Allah’s forgiveness after every gathering.
Increased Awareness
Regular recitation encourages mindfulness during gatherings, reducing the chances of saying or doing something wrong.
Reward
Seeking forgiveness and praising Allah are acts of worship, ensuring rewards from Allah even after a casual meeting.
FAQs about the Dua at the End of a Gathering
Q: Can I recite this dua even if I wasn’t leading the gathering?
A: Yes, this dua is meant for anyone who participated in the gathering, not just the host or the leader.
Q: What if I forget to recite this dua at the end of the gathering?
A: You can recite it afterward, even if the gathering has ended. The point is to remember to seek forgiveness and praise Allah for His blessings.
Q: Is this dua specific to religious gatherings?
A: No, you can recite this dua after any type of gathering, whether it’s formal, informal, or religious.