Which is better for frequent recitation: seeking forgiveness (Istighfar) or "Subhan Allah wa bihamdih" (Glory and praise be to Allah), given that both are among the causes for the forgiveness of sins and an increase in provision?

The virtue of remembrance (dhikr) is immense, for Allah remembers those who remember Him. Ibn al-Qayyim mentioned that it has more than a hundred benefits, and it is prescribed for the one who remembers Allah to combine different forms of remembrance.

"Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him) is the prayer of all things, and by it, creation is provided for. It is among the words most beloved to Allah. The statement of the one who says, "A servant is deprived of provision due to sin, and seeking forgiveness erases sins, and therefore it is a cause for provision," is correct. Seeking forgiveness is a cause for erasing sins, and when they are erased, their negative effects cease, and provision and relief are obtained. However, the hadith "Indeed, a man is deprived of provision by a sin that he commits" was declared weak by Al-Albani.

"Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him) said a hundred times, erases sins even if they are like the foam of the sea. However, it does not take the place of seeking forgiveness. Seeking forgiveness is better in the context of repentance and seeking pardon. Glorification (tasbih) does not suffice in place of seeking forgiveness. Therefore, the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to combine them by saying: "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi astaghfirullaha wa atubu ilayh" (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him; I seek Allah's forgiveness and repent to Him).

Combining glorification and seeking forgiveness is desirable, and one chooses what the situation necessitates. A servant cannot do without seeking forgiveness or glorification and praise.