اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلاً مُتَقَبَّلاً
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and deeds that are accepted.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.
When to Read
This dua is perfect to recite at the beginning of your workday, especially if you are involved in trade or any business dealings. It's a beautiful way to seek Allah's guidance and blessing in your efforts, asking Him to steer you away from anything impure or deceptive.
How to Read
Recite this sincerely with your hands raised, seeking Allah's help. It's best recited after the obligatory prayers or at any moment you feel the need to reaffirm your reliance on Allah for success and protection in your livelihood.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication is incredibly comprehensive. By asking for 'beneficial knowledge,' you seek wisdom and understanding in your trade, enabling you to make sound decisions and avoid pitfalls. Asking for 'pure sustenance' is a direct request to be protected from unlawful or deceptive earnings, ensuring your income is blessed. Finally, seeking 'accepted deeds' means your work, done with good intention and adherence to Islamic ethics, will be pleasing to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught this dua, indicating its profound importance in ensuring one's worldly efforts are both successful and pleasing to the Creator.
Source & Authentication
The hadith narrative connected to this dua is that when the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was asked what the best dua was, he said: 'O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and deeds that are accepted.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 925, graded Hasan by some scholars). Although the context of the question was about the best dua in general, its relevance to earning a livelihood is clear, as it encompasses the key elements for a blessed and ethical business life.