اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنَا بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنَا، وَعَلِّمْنَا مَا يَنْفَعُنَا، وَزِدْنَا عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit us by what You have taught us, and teach us what is beneficial for us, and increase us in knowledge.
Allahumma anfa'na bima 'allamtana, wa 'allimna ma yanfa'una, wa zidna 'ilma
When to Read
This dua is perfect for the beginning of a session where scholars or students of knowledge are gathered to study, discuss, or deepen their understanding of Islamic texts. It can be recited individually or by the group leader before commencing the discussion, study circle, or lecture.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a humble heart, directing your intention towards seeking beneficial knowledge. It can be recited once or three times. Facing the Qiblah is a recommended etiquette for making dua, as is raising the hands, though for this specific dua, the hands might not be raised as high as for other supplications. The focus should be on the profound meaning and the earnest request to Allah.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates the core purpose of seeking knowledge: to gain understanding that benefits oneself and the Ummah. It acknowledges that all true benefit and teaching originates from Allah. By asking Allah to make the knowledge beneficial, we move beyond mere accumulation of facts to seeking wisdom and application that pleases Him. This supplication aligns with the Quranic emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge that leads to beneficial outcomes and piety, as in: 'And say, 'My Lord, increase me in knowledge.' (Ta-Ha 20:114). The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself would often ask Allah for beneficial knowledge.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, good provision, and deeds that are accepted). And when he was taught this specific dua: 'Allahumma anfa'na bima 'allamtana, wa 'allimna ma yanfa'una, wa zidna 'ilman' (O Allah, benefit us by what You have taught us, and teach us what is beneficial for us, and increase us in knowledge).