اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma in-fa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman
When to Read
This dua is ideally recited just before you begin reading a book, starting a study session, or engaging in any activity that requires learning and understanding. It's a beautiful way to invoke Allah's blessing and guidance at the very outset of seeking knowledge.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely with the intention of seeking Allah's help and guidance in acquiring beneficial knowledge. It's best said with a clear mind and a humble heart, perhaps in Arabic as transmitted or in your own language asking Allah to make your studies fruitful. This supplication is a request for Allah to make the knowledge we acquire beneficial in this life and the next.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a powerful request for divine assistance in learning. It asks Allah not only to make the knowledge we already possess useful but also to teach us what is truly beneficial. The final part, 'wa zidni 'ilman' (and increase me in knowledge), is a constant reminder of our need to grow and expand our understanding, seeking knowledge as a lifelong pursuit. Beneficial knowledge, as implied here, is knowledge that leads to righteous actions and brings us closer to Allah.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Allah, Mighty and Majestic is He, said: 'O son of Adam, do not fail to remember Me after you have stood up to pray, and say: O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge. For indeed, if you learn something that benefits you, I will teach it to you.'