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 naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.
When to Read
This dua is particularly beneficial to recite before starting an exam, during a moment of confusion, or after realizing a mistake. It's a comprehensive supplication that asks Allah for the tools needed to succeed both in worldly matters and the hereafter, including clarity of mind and sound judgment.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus, preferably after praying Fajr or at any other time when you can make a focused supplication. Raise your hands if you are able, and have firm conviction that Allah (SWT) will respond. Visualize the knowledge becoming clear and the mistakes being rectified.
Virtues & Benefits
This beautiful hadith, narrated by Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her), covers three crucial aspects of a believer's life: beneficial knowledge ('ilman naafi'an) that leads to positive action, goodly provision (rizqan tayyiban) that is pure and lawful, and acceptable deeds ('amalan mutaqabbalan) that are pleasing to Allah. By asking for these, we are essentially seeking Allah's guidance and blessing in our endeavors, including academic pursuits. Beneficial knowledge aids in understanding concepts, avoiding errors, and making sound decisions in exams. It's a comprehensive prayer for success that extends beyond the exam hall.
Source & Authentication
Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The supplication that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to recite most frequently was: 'O Allah, O Controller of the hearts, make my heart firm in Your religion.' I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, do you fear for yourself?' He replied: 'Yes, for no one is safe from the decree of Allah except with His grace.' And he also used to say: 'O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, and provision that is pure, and deeds that are accepted.'