اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear (You), from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsil la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'.
When to Read
This powerful supplication is recommended to be recited after finishing the obligatory prayers (fardh salah). It's a beautiful way to conclude your prayer by turning to Allah for protection from various forms of spiritual and intellectual deficiencies, particularly those that can lead to misguidance.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and full presence of heart. Focus on the meaning of each phrase as you utter it. Imagine seeking Allah's protection from these negative states. It's best recited while still seated in the place of your prayer, after the initial tasleem (saying 'Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah' on both sides).
Virtues & Benefits
This dua shields us from the dangers of acquiring knowledge that has no practical or spiritual benefit, or worse, leads us astray. It protects against a hardened heart that doesn't feel the awe of Allah. It seeks refuge from an insatiable soul, which can lead to constant dissatisfaction and pursuit of worldly desires. Finally, it asks for our duas to be accepted, implying that these other states might hinder their acceptance.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah bin ‘Amr bin Al-‘As (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) used to supplicate: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, and from a heart that does not fear (You), and from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered." (Sahih Muslim 2722)