اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, make beneficial for me what You have taught me, and teach me that which will be beneficial for me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma-nf'ani bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman.
When to Read
This dua is perfect to recite when embarking on a learning session, whether it's reading a book, attending a lecture, or studying a specific subject. It's also beneficial to make it a regular habit, perhaps after each obligatory prayer, to continuously seek Allah's guidance in your pursuit of knowledge and its application.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus, reflecting on the meaning of each word. Raise your hands as you would during supplication. Believe that Allah is the source of all knowledge and that He will grant you what you ask for if it is good for you. It’s best to say it before you begin your study, as a way of asking for blessings and guidance from the outset.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua encompasses three essential aspects of seeking knowledge: utilizing what you already know ('anfani bima 'allamtani'), acquiring new, beneficial knowledge ('allimni ma yanfa'uni'), and the continuous growth in understanding ('wa zidni 'ilman'). It acknowledges that true benefit from knowledge comes from Allah, and that even the knowledge we possess needs divine blessing to be useful. By asking to be taught what is beneficial, we guard against wasting time on trivial or harmful information. The request for an increase in knowledge underlines the lifelong journey of learning for a believer, seeking knowledge that is both worldly and religious, and ultimately pleasing to Allah.
Source & Authentication
‘Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to say: 'Allahumma-nf'ani bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman. (O Allah, make beneficial for me what You have taught me, and teach me that which will be beneficial for me, and increase me in knowledge.)' (Graded Hasan by some scholars, found in Sunan Ibn Majah)