اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْنِي الْكِتَابَ وَالْحِسَابَ اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا ، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا ، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, teach me the Book (Al-Qur'an) and the reckoning (knowledge of matters). O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma 'allimni al-kitaba wal-hisaba. Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant before or during important meetings where decisions need to be made. Recite it when you feel the weight of responsibility, or when seeking Allah's guidance to ensure the decisions made are sound, just, and beneficial. It's a prayer for divine insight and the ability to discern the right course of action.
How to Read
Raise your hands slightly, facing the Qiblah if possible, and recite this dua with sincerity and a humble heart. Focus on the meaning of the words, asking Allah directly for the wisdom and clarity you need. Ensure you are in a state of Wudu (ablution) if reciting in a formal setting, though the dua itself can be made at any time.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking knowledge ('ilm) is highly encouraged in Islam. This dua specifically asks for beneficial knowledge, which is knowledge that leads to good deeds and a deeper understanding of Allah's commands. By asking for clarity and the ability to 'reckon' (interpret and understand matters), we are seeking the wisdom necessary to make sound decisions, avoid pitfalls, and act in accordance with what is pleasing to Allah. This helps ensure that decisions made in meetings are not only effective but also righteous.
Source & Authentication
The Mother of the Faithful, Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to supplicate: 'Allahumma 'allimni al-kitaba wal-hisaba.' (O Allah, teach me the Book and the reckoning). And when the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) was on his deathbed, he would often bring his hands together and say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision, and acceptable deeds).