اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, and teach me what is beneficial for me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma-nf'ani bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilma
When to Read
This dua is perfect to recite before you start studying for an exam, during breaks, or just before entering the examination hall. It's a heartfelt request to Allah to make the knowledge you've acquired beneficial and to grant you understanding for what is to come.
How to Read
Recite this sincerely with your hands raised, reflecting on its meaning. Imagine Allah (SWT) listening and responding. Focus your intention on seeking knowledge that will benefit you in this life and the next. It can be recited once or multiple times, as you feel moved. Remember, the sincerity of your heart is paramount.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful supplication has immense benefits. It directly asks Allah to make the existing knowledge useful – preventing rote learning without comprehension. It requests new, beneficial knowledge. Most importantly, it asks for an increase in knowledge itself, which is a noble pursuit in Islam. By seeking beneficial knowledge, we align ourselves with the Sunnah, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself made extensive use of dua for guidance and wisdom. This supplication embodies the spirit of continuous learning and reliance on Allah for success, not just in exams, but in life's endeavors.
Source & Authentication
Ibn Majah narrated from the authority of Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'There is no one who is afflicted with a disease and says: Glory be to Allah, the Great, praise be to Allah, Lord of the heavens, praise be to Allah, Lord of the earth, Lord of the Throne, what He wills is His Kingdom, and praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds, forty times, except that Allah will forgive him what He has committed of sins.' [This refers to a different hadith to show context of how Ibn Majah narrates duas and teachings. The specific dua for knowledge is a well-established supplication taught by the Prophet ﷺ]