اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, good provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This is a powerful supplication that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would recite in the morning. It's perfect to read before you start studying, before entering the exam hall, or at any time you feel you need a boost in your efforts. It invokes Allah's blessing on your intellectual pursuits, your sustenance (which includes the ability to focus and succeed), and the sincerity of your actions.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction. Raise your hands if possible, especially if you're reciting it in private. Focus on the meaning of each word and truly ask Allah for these blessings. It’s beneficial to make this a habit, not just a one-off prayer for exams, as it encompasses all aspects of a productive and righteous life.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is comprehensive, asking for three crucial things: beneficial knowledge (which aids in exams and life), good provision (which can manifest as clarity of mind, good health, and the ability to earn a living), and acceptable deeds (ensuring your efforts are pleasing to Allah). While not directly about exam strength, the components of beneficial knowledge and acceptable deeds are key to approaching your studies with the right mindset and intention. When our intentions are pure and our knowledge sought is for Allah's sake, Allah grants us success.
Source & Authentication
‘Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ would not teach us an invocation, but he would teach us what to say at the end of the day. And he would not teach us an invocation, but he would teach us what to say at the beginning of the day. So he taught us: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan' (O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, good provision, and acceptable deeds).