اللَّهُمَّ آتِنِي حِكْمَةً, وَأَلْهِمْنِي رُشْدِي
O Allah, grant me wisdom, and grant me righteousness.
Allahumma atini hikmatan, wa alhimni rushdi
When to Read
This is a beautiful supplication to recite at any time, but it is especially potent when you are facing a decision, seeking to understand a complex situation, or striving to improve your character and interactions with others. Make it a habit after your obligatory prayers or during your personal worship times.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Imagine asking a loving Father for the best of guidance. Raise your hands if you are reciting it in a personal capacity, facing the Qiblah, and focusing on the meaning of the words. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that Allah is shy and pleased to turn away from a person with empty hands when they supplicate.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking wisdom and discernment from Allah (Exalted is He) is a sign of true reliance on Him. Wisdom allows us to navigate life's challenges with clarity, make sound judgments, and understand the deeper meanings behind events. Discernment (Rushd) helps us distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood, and choose the path that pleases our Creator. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "Allah gives worldly power to those whom He loves and to those whom He dislikes. But He gives the faith only to those whom He loves." (Musnad Ahmad 22631). While this hadith doesn't mention this specific dua, it highlights that true, lasting benefit comes from faith and divine guidance, which wisdom and discernment foster.
Source & Authentication
Al-Mustadrak al-Hakim narrated from the narration of Ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Allah did not give anything to any person that is better than being given soundness in Islam, and a righteous wife, and sufficient provision, and it is not with the people of this world of worldly things except that it is a provision and what is for them is what has been destined. And the most excellent of what is given to people is soundness of heart and good character.' Then he mentioned the wording of the dua: 'O Allah, grant me wisdom, and grant me righteousness.' (Mustadrak al-Hakim 1656 - Hasan). The narrator, Al-Hakim, said: 'This is a narration whose chain of transmission is sound, though they did not narrate it.' Al-Mundhiri said: 'Its chain of transmission is Hasan.'