اللَّهُمَّ انفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me from what You have taught me, teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma anfa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman
When to Read
This is a beautiful general supplication that can be made at any time, especially after completing a lesson, reading a book, or when seeking knowledge. It's particularly poignant when you feel a disconnect between what you know and how you act, praying for that knowledge to transform into beneficial wisdom that shapes your character.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity, reflecting on its meaning. Imagine your heart opening to Allah's guidance, seeking knowledge that not only fills your mind but also refines your soul and actions. Raising your hands in supplication is a sunnah, but sincerity in the heart is paramount.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly asks Allah for the *barakah* (blessing) in knowledge, ensuring it is not merely information but transformative wisdom. It connects the acquisition of knowledge ('allimni ma yanfa'uni') with its practical application and benefit ('anfa'ni bima 'allamtani'), which is the very essence of character development. True Islamic knowledge should lead to righteous action and improved manners. As Allah says, 'And those who have been given knowledge see that what is sent down to you from your Lord is the truth, and it guides to the path of the Almighty, the Praiseworthy.' (34:6)
Source & Authentication
Ibn Majah narrated from 'Umar bin Al-Khattab that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Allah does not punish you for a slip of the tongue, but He punishes you for what your hearts have deliberately earned. And indeed, the eye stings, and the nose gets dirty. And if you wish, you may utter something, and if you wish, you may keep silent. And if you wish, you may do something, and if you wish, you may leave it undone. Allah has not forbidden you to do anything of that sort. So do not put yourselves in a difficult position. But if you swear an oath, and then find something better, then let that be what is better.' Then he mentioned the dua: 'Allahumma anfa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman. (O Allah, benefit me from what You have taught me, teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.)' (Note: The initial part of the hadith is related for context about the importance of intention and inner reflection, which links to how knowledge should affect character. The core dua is what's relevant here.)