اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أَعُوْذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not humble itself, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'ain la yusma'.
When to Read
This dua is particularly poignant when you feel the weight of responsibilities you've neglected, whether they are religious duties, family obligations, or personal goals. It’s a powerful reflection to make when you realize your actions (or inactions) stem from a lack of sincere intention, a distracted heart, or a soul that hasn't found contentment in Allah's decree. Recite it in the quiet moments after salah, or during your personal supplications when you're reflecting on your shortcomings.
How to Read
Recite this supplication with sincerity and heartfelt intention. Understand each part of the dua: seeking refuge from useless knowledge, a heart that isn't moved by awe of Allah, a restless soul, and unanswered prayers. Reflect on how neglecting responsibilities might be linked to these internal states. Let your voice be soft but firm, conveying earnestness to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ taught us the importance of seeking refuge, so approach this dua with that spirit of earnest seeking.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive supplication addresses multiple internal struggles that can lead to the neglect of our duties. By seeking refuge from knowledge that doesn't benefit, we're asking Allah to guide us towards beneficial learning that leads to action. A heart that doesn't humble itself can become arrogant or indifferent, hindering our ability to fulfill obligations with the right attitude. A soul that is never satisfied can lead to constant distraction and a lack of focus on what truly matters. Finally, seeking refuge from unanswered prayers reminds us to ensure our supplications are pure and directed to Allah with the proper intention and actions. This dua helps purify our intentions and reconnect us with the purpose behind our responsibilities.
Source & Authentication
Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to frequently recite in his supplication: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from ignorance and from the means of ignorance, and I seek refuge in You from deviation and from the means of deviation. I seek refuge in You from going astray and from being led astray, from oppressing and being oppressed, and from causing enmity and malice and from being the cause thereof.' He also used to recite: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not humble itself, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.'