اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, sustenance that is pure, and deeds that are accepted.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This beautiful dua is recommended to be recited after the Asr prayer, specifically after finishing the prescribed Fard (obligatory) prayer and before engaging in other activities. Asr prayer marks the end of the day's formal worship, making it a potent time for reflection, supplication, and seeking Allah's continued guidance and acceptance.
How to Read
After completing your Asr prayer, settle yourself in your prayer place. Face the Qiblah or remain in your current position. With sincere intention and heartfelt concentration, recite the Arabic words clearly and with understanding of their meaning. Many scholars recommend raising your hands slightly while making this dua, though it is not a strict requirement for all supplications after prayer.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates three profound requests crucial for a Muslim's life: beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and accepted deeds. Seeking beneficial knowledge ( 'ilman nafi'an ) is a means of drawing closer to Allah and acting upon His commands. Pure sustenance ( rizqan tayyiban ) ensures that what we consume and possess is lawful and blessed, free from unlawful earnings. Finally, asking for accepted deeds ( 'amalan mutaqabbalan ) is the ultimate goal, as our worship and good actions are only valuable if they are accepted by our Creator. This supplication, made at a time when the day's efforts are concluding, is a humble request for Allah's continued favor and approval.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say, when he said the Tashahhud: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave, and the punishment of Hellfire, and from the trials of life and death, and from the evil of the trial of the Dajjal.' He would say: 'Allahumma inni audhu bika min 'adhab al-qabr, wa 'adhab an-nar, wa fitnat al-mahya wal-ma't, wa shar fitnat al-dajjal.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 833, Sahih Muslim 589). Another narration of a similar type: Narrated Aisha: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to invoke Allah much, saying: 'Subhan Allahi wa bihamdihi, la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah' (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him, there is no might nor power except with Allah). I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, I hear you often saying: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and accepted deeds). He said: 'O Aisha, indeed, no prayer is complete without it.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 925).