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 dua is excellent to recite before starting any important task, including an exam. Recite it just before you enter the exam hall, or right before the examiner begins evaluating your work or interview. It’s a way of seeking Allah's blessing and guidance in the entire process.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction, raising your hands if appropriate. Focus on the meaning and truly ask Allah for His assistance. It's also good practice to ensure you've done your best in preparation, as Allah helps those who help themselves. Following this with a dua specifically for the examiner's fairness, like 'Rabbi yassir wa la tu'assir, Rabbi tammim bil khayr' (My Lord, make it easy and do not make it difficult, My Lord, complete it with goodness), can also be beneficial.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua encapsulates seeking Allah's support in three crucial areas of life: knowledge, sustenance, and deeds. Beneficial knowledge empowers you in this life and the next. Goodly provision ensures you are sustained lawfully. Acceptable deeds mean your efforts are recognized and rewarded by Allah. When seeking fair judgment, asking for beneficial knowledge helps you recall what you've learned accurately, and asking for acceptable deeds implies your work is sincere and deserving of a fair assessment.
Source & Authentication
‘Umar bin Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) said: ‘The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say when he sought knowledge: 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.)’