اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear (You), from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'.
When to Read
This dua is profound and can be recited at any time. It's particularly powerful when you feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available, or when you encounter ideas that seem contrary to Islamic teachings. Recite it daily as part of your morning or evening supplications to fortify your mind and heart against the pitfalls of unbeneficial or misleading knowledge.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a clear intention to seek Allah's protection. Raise your hands as you would when making other supplications. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, internalizing the request for Allah's safeguarding. It's recommended to say it with conviction, trusting in Allah's power to shield you.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge in Allah from 'knowledge that does not benefit' is crucial. This isn't just about avoiding ignorance, but also about seeking knowledge that is beneficial, leading to righteous action and a deeper understanding of faith. It helps purify our intentions when seeking knowledge and protects us from the arrogance or misguidance that can accompany flawed understanding. The dua also encompasses seeking protection from a hardened heart, an unfulfilled soul, and unanswered prayers, showing the interconnectedness of seeking good knowledge and overall spiritual well-being.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated that Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to seek refuge (in Allah) by saying: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'.' (Sahih Muslim 2722)