اللَّهُمَّ فَقِّهْهُ فِي الدِّينِ وَعَلِّمْهُ التَّأْوِيلَ
O Allah, grant him understanding in the religion and teach him its interpretation.
Allahumma faqqih-hu fid-deen wa 'allim-hut-ta'weel
When to Read
During the Jumuah khutbah, it is a primary Sunnah to listen attentively and remain silent. The Prophet ﷺ said: "If you say to your companion, 'Listen!' on Friday while the Imam is delivering the sermon, then you have indeed spoken an idle word." (Sahih al-Bukhari 934). Therefore, there is no prescribed verbal dua for the congregation to recite *for the imam* during the khutbah. However, a Muslim can make silent, internal supplications for the Imam's guidance, sincerity, and success, knowing that Allah hears the whispers of the heart. This dua is appropriate to make silently at any point during the khutbah when your mind is not distracted from listening, affirming your desire for the Imam's success in conveying Allah's message.
How to Read
This dua should be recited silently and internally, without moving your lips or making any sound. Your primary focus during the khutbah must be to listen attentively to the Imam's words. This internal supplication should not become a distraction from your duty to listen, nor should it be recited in a manner that indicates you are not fully engaged with the khutbah. It is a personal prayer from your heart, seeking good for the Imam.
Virtues & Benefits
Making dua for our leaders and those who guide us in religion, like the Imam, carries immense rewards. When you pray for the Imam to be granted deeper understanding of the Deen and its interpretation, you are not only seeking Allah's favor for him, but also for the entire Muslim community. A guided and knowledgeable Imam is better equipped to deliver clear, beneficial guidance, strengthening the faith and practice of the congregation. This act of sincere, silent dua is a reflection of true brotherhood and a recognition of the Imam's important role, earning you rewards for wishing good for another Muslim and for seeking Allah's help in propagating His message.
Source & Authentication
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ placed his hand on my chest and said: "اللَّهُمَّ فَقِّهْهُ فِي الدِّينِ وَعَلِّمْهُ التَّأْوِيلَ" (O Allah, grant him understanding in the religion and teach him its interpretation.) — Sunan al-Tirmidhi 3824. Graded Hasan Sahih by Tirmidhi, and Sahih by Al-Albani.