اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This beautiful dua is recited after the Fajr (dawn) prayer, but its essence is universally applicable to seeking blessings and guidance in all aspects of life, including before meals. When facing temptations related to food or feeling the urge to overindulge, bringing this supplication to mind can reorient our focus towards what is permissible and beneficial, seeking Allah's help to control our desires and be content with His provision.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely after the Fajr prayer. The intention behind it is key: to ask Allah for qualities that guide us towards good and protect us from ill. While the hadith specifies after Fajr, reflecting on its meaning and making a similar request before eating can help us approach our food with gratitude and moderation, asking Allah to bless what we consume and guide our choices.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses a profound request for three vital elements: 'ilman nafi'an' (beneficial knowledge) that guides us, 'rizqan tayyiban' (goodly provision) that is pure and lawful, and 'amalan mutaqabbalan' (acceptable deeds) that are pleasing to Allah. By asking for these, we seek Allah's assistance in making righteous choices, including our eating habits. Beneficial knowledge helps us discern right from wrong, good provision keeps us pure, and acceptable deeds ensure our efforts are valued. This indirectly helps us resist temptation and overindulgence by strengthening our overall connection with Allah and our commitment to His guidance.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to say, after finishing the Maghrib prayer: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision, and acceptable deeds.) - Sahih Muslim 7:71. While the hadith specifies after Maghrib, scholars often mention it's also recommended after Fajr, and the themes are relevant throughout the day.