اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلاً مُتَقَبَّلاً
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 particularly potent when you are about to study Islamic history, read about a significant event, or reflect on the lives of the Prophets, the Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them all), and the scholars who preserved our faith. Recite it before you begin your study session or contemplation to invite Allah's guidance and understanding.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, focusing on your intention to learn for the sake of Allah and to draw lessons from the past. Raise your hands as you make this supplication. It is best to recite it after the obligatory prayers, or at any time you feel the need for divine assistance in your pursuit of knowledge. Ensure you understand the meaning of each word.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua, taught by our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, asks for three essential things that are crucial for grasping the significance of historical events. Beneficial knowledge ('ilman naafi'an) allows us to understand the context, wisdom, and lessons embedded within these events. Goodly provision (rizqan tayyiban) can encompass not just sustenance but also the mental clarity and spiritual well-being needed for deep thought. Acceptable deeds ('amalan mutaqabbalan) ensure that our efforts to learn and implement these lessons are pleasing to Allah. By asking for these, we are seeking Allah's help to not just know history, but to understand its divine purpose and integrate its wisdom into our lives.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the torment of the Hellfire, and from the torment of the grave, and from the trial of life and death, and from the evil of the trial of the Masih ad-Dajjal.' He also used to say: 'O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity and contentment (of the soul).' And he used to say: 'O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision and acceptable deeds.' (This specific part of the dua is from Sahih Muslim 779)