اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ. اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْهُدَى وَالتُّقَى وَالْعَفَافَ وَالْغِنَى.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humble, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard. O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and contentment.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'. Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina.
When to Read
Recite this dua when you find yourself trapped in cycles of over-thinking, dissecting every detail, and doubting your decisions. It's particularly helpful when facing choices, reflecting on past events, or feeling overwhelmed by possibilities. Make it a habit, especially after prayers.
How to Read
Raise your hands in supplication, facing the Qiblah if possible, and recite with sincerity and a focused heart. Understand the meaning of each phrase and feel the earnestness of seeking Allah's protection and provision. It's good practice to repeat it three times for added emphasis, as the Prophet ﷺ often did.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua seeks protection from various spiritual and worldly ills. Specifically concerning over-analysis and second-guessing, it asks Allah to shield us from 'knowledge that does not benefit' – a key component of unproductive over-thinking. It also seeks 'a heart that does not feel humble,' which can lead to arrogance and an inability to accept guidance, potentially fueling indecision. The request for 'a soul that is not satisfied' guards against greed and constant wanting, which can distract us from what truly matters. By asking for guidance (huda) and piety (tuqa), we implore Allah to direct our steps wisely and strengthen our resolve, making it easier to make sound decisions without excessive doubt. The plea for contentment (ghina) helps us accept our choices and trust in Allah's plan, reducing the anxiety of 'what if'.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah ibn Mas'ud reported: The Prophet ﷺ used to supplicate: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min a'dhabil-nar wa a'udhu bika min 'adhabi al-qabr, wa a'udhu bika min fitnati ad-dajjal, wa a'udhu bika min fitnati al-mahya wal-mamat. Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min da'wa la yusma'. Allahumma inni as'alukal-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina. (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the Fire, and I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave, and I seek refuge in You from the trial of the Dajjal, and I seek refuge in You from the trials of life and death. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, and from a heart that does not feel humble, and from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard. O Allah, I ask You for guidance, and piety, and chastity, and contentment.)' Sahih Muslim recorded it in this form and also narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet ﷺ sought refuge in Allah from the punishment of the grave and the punishment of the Fire and from afflictions, the visible and the hidden, and he sought refuge in Allah from the trial of the Dajjal.