اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْنِي الْحِكْمَةَ، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, grant me wisdom, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma 'allimni al-hikmata, wa zidni 'ilman
When to Read
This dua is particularly beneficial to recite before sleeping, especially if you are actively seeking to deepen your understanding of Islamic knowledge or any beneficial worldly knowledge. The intention behind seeking knowledge is crucial; when it is for the sake of Allah, dreams can become a means of inspiration or insight. Make it a habit before you go to sleep, asking Allah to guide your slumber and enlighten your mind.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a focused heart. Imagine yourself seeking Allah's guidance and wisdom. It's best to recite it after performing Wudu (ablution) and after reciting any other relevant supplications or remembrance of Allah before sleep. Picture yourself waking up with a clearer understanding or a fresh perspective on what you are studying.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking knowledge is a highly virtuous act in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'Whoever treads a path seeking knowledge, Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.' (Sahih Muslim 2699). While this specific dua is not directly linked to obtaining knowledge *in a dream* from a prophetic narration, asking Allah for wisdom and knowledge is fundamental. Dreams can be a way Allah inspires us, and this dua perfectly encapsulates the request for divine insight and increased understanding, which can manifest in various ways, including a clearer mind upon waking or a dream that sparks an idea or solution.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'Whoever treads a path seeking knowledge, Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 381). This hadith emphasizes the immense virtue of seeking knowledge. The specific phrase 'Allahumma 'allimni al-hikmata, wa zidni 'ilman' is a supplication found in other contexts, for instance, Allah Ta'ala said about Prophet Dawud (AS): '...and Allah taught him [the rule of] David. And He taught him the skill of [making] armor...' (Al-Baqarah 2:243). The request for wisdom and knowledge is a direct plea to Allah for His bounty.