اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْنِي الْكِتَابَ وَالْحِسَابَ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, teach me the Book (the Quran) and the reckoning (understanding). O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and accepted deeds.
Allahumma 'allimni al-kitaba wal-hisab. Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.
When to Read
This dua is particularly useful when preparing for an exam, especially if you are facing a test that requires memorization and deep understanding. Recite it before you start studying, during your study sessions, and especially just before entering the examination hall. It can also be recited when you find yourself struggling to recall specific information you have previously learned.
How to Read
Make this dua with sincerity and focus. Raise your hands as you would for any supplication. Begin by praising Allah and sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Utter the words clearly, reflecting on their meaning. It is recommended to recite it after the obligatory prayers as well, as supplications made at those times are more likely to be answered. Visualize Allah granting you the ability to recall the knowledge you need.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to his beloved companion Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him), encompasses a holistic request for well-being in this life and the next. The request for 'beneficial knowledge' ('ilman nafi'an) directly addresses the need to recall information accurately and apply it. It's not just about passing exams, but about gaining knowledge that benefits us in our lives and our hereafter. The request for 'pure sustenance' and 'accepted deeds' rounds out a perfect supplication for a balanced life, pleasing to Allah.
Source & Authentication
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to teach us in our prayers saying: 'Allahumma 'allimni al-kitaba wal-hisab' (O Allah, teach me the Book and the reckoning). And he would mention with it: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan' (O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and accepted deeds).