اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, good provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.
When to Read
Recite this dua before you begin any study session, especially when you feel your mind is prone to wandering or distractions. It's a beautiful way to start by asking Allah for knowledge that benefits us, both in this life and the next, which inherently includes the ability to focus and absorb what we're learning.
How to Read
Make this dua with sincerity and conviction. Turn to Allah, the source of all knowledge and focus. Imagine yourself absorbing beneficial knowledge and performing deeds that are pleasing to Him. Raising your hands slightly can be a sign of earnest supplication. Ensure you are in a state of wudu if possible, though it is not strictly mandatory for all duas.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself, is a powerful request. By asking for 'beneficial knowledge' ('ilman naafi'an), we are implicitly asking for the ability to retain, understand, and apply what we study. Beneficial knowledge is that which leads us closer to Allah and benefits ourselves and others. This request helps guard against superficial learning and the mental fog that often accompanies distractions. It aligns our worldly pursuits with our ultimate purpose.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to say when the day dawned: 'O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is good and plentiful, provision that is pure and lawful, and deeds that are acceptable.' (Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan). This was narrated by Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) and recorded in Sahih Muslim.