اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This dua is a comprehensive supplication that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would often recite after the morning prayer (Fajr). It's particularly relevant when we reflect on the blessings we've been given, including the capacity for empathy, and seek to use these blessings in a way that is pleasing to Allah. It's a good practice to make this dua daily, especially when feeling grateful for the ability to connect with others' feelings and wanting that connection to translate into actions that benefit them.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, focusing on the meaning of each part. It's best recited after completing the obligatory morning prayer. Raise your hands in supplication as was the practice of the Prophet ﷺ. Reflect on the 'beneficial knowledge' that allows you to understand and connect with others, the 'goodly provision' that enables you to act upon that understanding, and the 'acceptable deeds' that result from your empathetic actions.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a powerful means of seeking Allah's help to purify our intentions and actions. By asking for beneficial knowledge, we seek understanding that guides us towards empathy. 'Goodly provision' can encompass not just material wealth but also the opportunities and inner strength to act kindly. 'Acceptable deeds' are those that are performed sincerely for Allah's sake and align with the teachings of Islam, including compassion and mercy towards His creation. The ability to empathize is itself a great blessing, and this dua helps us cultivate it and use it for good, earning Allah's pleasure.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her): When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ had finished the morning prayer, he would say: 'O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, provision that is good and pure, and deeds that are accepted.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 925)