اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْهُ الْحِكْمَةَ وَفَهِّمْهُ التَّأْوِيلَ، وَزِدْهُ عِلْمًا وَفِقْهًا وَإِيمَانًا وَعَمَلًا صَالِحًا.
O Allah, teach him wisdom and understanding of interpretation, and increase him in knowledge, understanding, faith, and righteous deeds.
Allahumma 'allimhu al-hikmata wa fahhimhu at-ta'weela, wa zidhu 'ilman wa fiqhan wa imanan wa 'amalan salihan.
When to Read
This dua can be recited for a child at any time, especially when you observe them showing an interest in arts, drawing, writing, or any creative pursuit. It's particularly meaningful to make this supplication during times of personal prayer (like after salah) or when making dua for your children in general. You can also recite it while the child is sleeping or at the beginning of a new educational endeavor.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction, directing your supplication towards Allah (SWT). Raise your hands as you would during prayer. It's beneficial to reflect on the meaning of the words as you recite them, envisioning your child developing these noble qualities. You can place your hand on the child's head while making the dua, as this is a gesture of compassion and blessing. Ensure you pronounce the Arabic clearly, or if you are not fluent, you can say the translation with the same intention.
Virtues & Benefits
This beautiful dua, found in Sahih al-Bukhari, is attributed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ concerning Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him). While it specifically asks for wisdom, understanding, knowledge, jurisprudence, faith, and righteous deeds, the essence of seeking 'wisdom' and 'knowledge' directly benefits the development of talents and creativity. Wisdom allows for the judicious application of skills, and knowledge provides the foundation for innovative expression. By asking Allah to 'increase him,' we are seeking continuous growth in these areas. The emphasis on 'righteous deeds' also guides the creative expression towards positive and beneficial outcomes, ensuring that any talent developed is used for good.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) embraced me and said, 'O Allah, teach him wisdom.' Ibn 'Abbas added: 'And teach him the interpretation (of the Quran).' This hadith is a supplication made by the Prophet ﷺ for Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him). The phrase 'teach him wisdom' (Allahumma 'allimhu al-hikmata) is a comprehensive request that encompasses the ability to understand things in their proper place, to think clearly, and to act in the best manner. This very quality is what fuels creativity and the development of talents, allowing one to innovate and express oneself meaningfully. The additional request to 'teach him the interpretation' (wa fahhimhu at-ta'weela) speaks to a deeper understanding, which can be applied to understanding the nuances of art and creative expression as well. The further plea for 'knowledge, understanding, faith, and righteous deeds' ensures that the child's growth is well-rounded, with creativity being a tool for good and a reflection of their faith.