اللَّهُمَّ فَقِّهْنِي فِي الدِّينِ، وَعَلِّمْنِي التَّأْوِيلَ.
O Allah, grant me deep understanding in religion and teach me interpretation (of the Quran and Hadith).
Allahumma faqqihni fid-deen, wa 'allimnit-ta'weel.
When to Read
This dua is perfect for any time you are studying the Quran or the Sunnah, especially when you encounter passages that seem metaphorical or require deeper insight. Recite it before or during your study sessions, or whenever you feel a need for greater clarity and wisdom to grasp the profound meanings within the Prophet's ﷺ sayings.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus. Raise your hands as you would during other supplications. Imagine the Prophet's ﷺ words, filled with wisdom, flowing into your heart and mind, illuminated by Allah's grace. It is beneficial to reflect on its meaning as you say it, asking Allah not just for knowledge, but for the ability to understand and interpret it correctly.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication, taught and made by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself for his cousin Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), is a powerful request for profound religious understanding and the ability to interpret Allah's Book and the Sunnah. Understanding the metaphors and deeper meanings in the Prophet's ﷺ sayings is crucial for true comprehension of Islam, enabling us to implement the teachings correctly and with wisdom. It is a direct plea to the One who is the source of all knowledge and understanding.
Source & Authentication
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ put his hand on my chest and said: O Allah, teach him the Book (Al-Kitab - i.e., the Quran). And in another narration: O Allah, teach him wisdom (Al-Hikmah) and teach him the interpretation (of the Quran). (Sunan Ibn Majah 383, Sahih al-Bukhari 143 and 4501, Sahih Muslim 2451). Context: This dua was specifically made by the Prophet ﷺ for Ibn Abbas, who was very young at the time. It highlights the importance of seeking Allah's help for understanding, particularly for those who will later convey that understanding to others. The term 'ta'weel' (interpretation) is broad and encompasses understanding the deeper meanings, including metaphors, within the Quran and Sunnah.