اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, teach me what is beneficial for me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma infa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman
When to Read
This dua is specifically recommended to be recited immediately after completing your obligatory prayers (Fardh). It's a powerful moment when you're focused and have just connected with Allah (SWT). You can make this dua before you even get up from your prayer mat, or after reciting your regular Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) post-Salah. It's particularly apt when you are preparing for exams, embarking on new studies, or facing any task that requires knowledge and understanding.
How to Read
After finishing your Salah, and ideally after reciting the standard Dhikr such as 'SubhanAllah' 33 times, 'Alhamdulillah' 33 times, and 'Allahu Akbar' 33 times, raise your hands in supplication. Recite this beautiful dua with sincerity and focus, truly internalizing its meaning. Imagine Allah (SWT) hearing you and granting you the knowledge you seek. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us the importance of asking Allah directly for what we need, and this dua is a perfect way to do just that regarding your studies.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a holistic approach to seeking knowledge. Firstly, it asks Allah (SWT) to make the knowledge we already possess beneficial, meaning it should lead to positive actions and deeper understanding, not just be for show. Secondly, it requests knowledge that will actually be useful in this life and the Hereafter. Finally, it's a direct plea for an increase in knowledge itself. This reflects the Islamic emphasis on continuous learning and applying that learning for the sake of Allah. Seeking knowledge is considered a highly virtuous act in Islam, and asking Allah for success in it is a sign of reliance on Him while putting in the effort.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Ibn 'Abbas that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Ask Allah for forgiveness and health, for indeed, the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) do not ask for anything in the world or the hereafter except that they are given forgiveness and health. And when you pray, ask for the two, i.e., forgiveness and health, and the Hadith continues: Allahumma infa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman (O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, teach me what is beneficial for me, and increase me in knowledge).