اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِيمَا رَزَقْتَنَا وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَارْحَمْنَا
O Allah, bless us in that which You have provided us, and forgive us and have mercy on us.
Allahumma barik lana fima razaqtana waghfir lana warhamna
When to Read
This dua is traditionally recited before breaking fast, especially during Ramadan. However, the supplication for blessing and mercy in provision can be extended to any meal, as seeking Allah's barakah (blessing) in our sustenance is always beneficial.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and presence of heart before you begin eating. It is recommended to have ablution before making dua, though not strictly mandatory for this specific supplication. Focus on the meaning of the words, asking Allah to purify your intentions and increase your benefit from the food.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication is a comprehensive request. 'Allahumma barik lana fima razaqtana' (O Allah, bless us in that which You have provided us) seeks divine increase and benefit from the food, making it nourish both body and soul. 'Waghfir lana' (and forgive us) acknowledges our shortcomings and seeks purification. 'Warhamna' (and have mercy on us) asks for Allah's encompassing mercy. While not directly for 'knowledge and wisdom' in an academic sense, seeking Allah's blessing in our sustenance purifies the body, which is the vessel for the mind, thus indirectly aiding in clarity and focus for seeking knowledge. It cultivates a state of gratitude and dependence on Allah for all provisions.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abdullah bin Mughaffal (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: 'There is no group of people who eat and do not mention Allah with remembrance at the beginning of it, but that the Shaitan joins them in it. And there is no group of people who finish it and do not mention Allah with remembrance at the end of it, but that the Shaitan joins them in it. If he finds him (i.e. the food) he eats with him, and if not, he becomes replete (with the food of the Muslims).' (Reported by Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah, and graded Sahih by Al-Albani). This hadith highlights the importance of mentioning Allah before and after eating, and this specific dua is a beautiful way to fulfill that command, seeking blessings and forgiveness.