لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَانَكَ إِنِّي كُنتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِينَ
There is no god but You; glory to You! Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers.
La ilaha illa anta, subhanaka, inni kuntu minadh-dhalimin
When to Read
Recite this dua when you're struggling to recall information during an exam, or anytime you feel overwhelmed by a difficult situation. It's particularly potent when facing a mental block and need Allah's help to access knowledge.
How to Read
Recite it with sincerity and a humble heart, acknowledging your need for Allah's assistance. Picture Prophet Yunus (peace be upon him) in the belly of the whale, turning to Allah in his moment of extreme distress. Focus on the meaning of the words, seeking forgiveness and acknowledging Allah's absolute power. It can be recited once, or repeated several times with focus and conviction.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua, known as the dua of Prophet Yunus (peace be upon him), has a unique benefit mentioned in a hadith: 'No servant supplicates in this dua except that Allah answers him.' (Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3505). While its primary context was extreme distress, its meaning encompasses seeking Allah's help in all matters. By acknowledging our shortcomings and seeking Allah's glory, we open ourselves to His immense mercy and aid, which can include unlocking forgotten knowledge.
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'The supplication of Dhul-Nun (Prophet Yunus) when he called to his Lord from the belly of the whale was: La ilaha illa anta, subhanaka, inni kuntu minadh-dhalimin (There is no god but You; glory to You! Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers). Verily, no man supplicates in this wording, except that Allah grants him his supplication.' — Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3505. The hadith is graded Hasan by scholars.