اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنَا بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنَا، وَعَلِّمْنَا مَا يَنْفَعُنَا، وَزِدْنَا عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit us by what You have taught us, and teach us that which will benefit us, and increase us in knowledge.
Allahumma anfa'na bima 'allamtana, wa 'allimna ma yanfa'una, wa zidna 'ilman
When to Read
Recite this dua at the beginning of a study session, especially when tackling a challenging topic or complex subject with fellow students. It's perfect for group discussions, revision classes, or any academic gathering where seeking beneficial knowledge is the goal.
How to Read
With sincerity and focus, face the Qiblah if possible. Raise your hands slightly, as is customary when making dua. Utter the words with clarity and conviction, reflecting on the meaning of seeking Allah's guidance and benefit from what you are learning. Encourage everyone in the gathering to recite it together.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua, taught to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ by the Angel Jibril (peace be upon him), directly asks Allah for three crucial things: 1) To benefit from the knowledge already acquired, ensuring it's not just memorized but understood and applicable. 2) To be taught what is truly beneficial, guiding the students away from useless or harmful information. 3) To increase in knowledge, reflecting the Islamic emphasis on lifelong learning and the pursuit of understanding. It fosters an environment of shared reliance on Allah for intellectual growth and success.
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) came to us and taught us this supplication: 'Allahumma inna nas'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, we ask You for beneficial knowledge, good provision, and accepted deeds.) Then he said: 'And he who is given these three has been given all the good of this world and the hereafter.' This longer version (often cited as the fuller context) highlights the integral connection between beneficial knowledge, provision, and accepted deeds. The shorter version quoted above, 'Allahumma anfa'na bima 'allamtana, wa 'allimna ma yanfa'una, wa zidna 'ilman', is specifically about the acquisition and benefit of knowledge and is also authentic and highly relevant for students.