As we commemorate both the new Hijri year and Ashura this Muharram, Prophet Musa’s (A) life provides some of the best inspiration we need to begin the new year on the right note. Though it is neglected, du’a is one of the most beloved forms of worship to Allah. Here are five Quranic du’as from the Prophet Musa to memorize now and recite all year-round.

1 – Forgiveness:

As imperfect human beings, there are sure to be things we’ve done in the past year that Allah warned us against and have been harmful for us. Now is the time to ask for forgiveness.

رَبِّ إِنِّى ظَلَمْتُ نَفْسِى فَٱغْفِرْ لِى

“My Lord! I have definitely wronged my soul, so forgive me.” [Al-Qasas: 16]

2 – Safety:

Allah warns us about destructive forces in our surroundings, including ill-intentioned people. When you are feeling unsafe, recite this du’a of Prophet Musa:

رَبِّ نَجِّنِى مِنَ ٱلْقَوْمِ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ

“My Lord! Deliver me from the wrongdoing people.” [Al-Qasas: 21]

3 – Rizq/Provision 

Looking for a new job, marriage, or simply any form of goodness in the coming year? This du’a made by Prophet Musa in his most desperate state, gave him all these things in one day. 

رَبِّ إِنِّى لِمَآ أَنزَلْتَ إِلَىَّ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ فَقِيرٌۭ

“My Lord! I am truly in ˹desperate˺ need of whatever provision You may have in store for me.” [Al-Qasas: 24]

4 – Confidence/Eloquence

A classic du’a you are probably familiar with, but a powerful weapon nonetheless for when you want a confidence boost from Allah to take on a difficult task or conversation.

رَبِّ ٱشْرَحْ لِى صَدْرِى وَيَسِّرْ لِىٓ أَمْرِى وَٱحْلُلْ عُقْدَةًۭ مِّن لِّسَانِى يَفْقَهُوا۟ قَوْلِى 

“My Lord! Uplift my heart for me, and make my task easy, and remove the impediment from my tongue so people may understand my speech…” [Taha: 25-28]

5 – Allah’s Mercy 

No matter what, at the end of the day, Allah’s mercy is what we need to get through all aspects of life and attain success in the hereafter. Ask for it often.

رَبِّ ٱغْفِرْ لِى وَلِأَخِى وَأَدْخِلْنَا فِى رَحْمَتِكَ ۖ وَأَنتَ أَرْحَمُ ٱلرَّٰحِمِينَ

“My Lord! Forgive me and my brother! And admit us into Your mercy. You are the Most Merciful of the merciful.” [Al A’raf: 151]