What is the meaning of “O Allah, I do not ask You to turn back the decree”?

Question : What is the meaning of the phrase “O Allah, I do not ask You to turn back the decree, but I ask You for gentleness in it”?

Answer : This phrase is not permissible at all. Because the one making du'a' (supplication) must be decisive in his supplication. And it has come in the hadith: So how do you say to your Lord, “I do not ask You to turn back the decree, but I ask You for gentleness in it”? It is as if you are challenging Him and saying, “I do not care, but be gentle with me.” This is not proper conduct. Proper conduct is to ask Allah the Exalted for the good you desire and to ask Him to turn back the evil you do not desire, without saying, “I ask You for gentleness.” This word is reprehensible. A person should abandon it and advise anyone he hears saying it. Yes.