اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْنِي الْكِتَابَ وَالْحِسَابَ، وَفَهِّمْنِي الْحِكْمَةَ، وَعَلِّمْنِي التَّأْوِيلَ
O Allah, teach me the Book and the reckoning, grant me understanding of wisdom, and teach me the interpretation.
Allahumma 'allimni al-kitaba wal-hisab, wa fahhimni al-hikmata, wa 'allimni at-ta'wil.
When to Read
This dua is beautifully suited for moments when you are delving into new subjects, trying to synthesize information from different disciplines, or feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of knowledge. Recite it when starting your study sessions, before engaging in research, or even during moments of quiet reflection when seeking clarity and deeper comprehension.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a focused heart, ideally after obligatory prayers or during the times when supplication is readily accepted, like the last third of the night or between the Adhan and Iqamah. Visualize the knowledge you seek flowing into your mind and heart, and the connections between different fields becoming clear. It's an expression of humility, acknowledging that true understanding comes from Allah.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to his uncle Al-Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), is a powerful plea for comprehensive understanding. 'Al-Kitab' refers to the Quran and the ability to read and comprehend it, while 'Al-Hisab' encompasses reckoning, mathematics, and precise calculation. 'Al-Hikmah' is wisdom, the proper application of knowledge, and 'At-Ta'wil' is interpretation, understanding the deeper meanings and contexts of texts. By asking for these, we are essentially asking Allah to grant us the ability not just to acquire information, but to integrate it, understand its nuances, and see the underlying connections – a perfect request for bridging disparate fields of knowledge.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Ibn Abbas: That Al-Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib said: "O Messenger of Allah, teach me something to ask Allah for." He said: "O Allah, I ask You for steadfastness in my affair and the resolve to do the right thing, and I ask You for the resolve to be grateful for Your blessings and to worship You well. And I ask You for a truthful tongue and a sound heart. And I ask You for that which You know, and I seek refuge in You from that which You know, and I seek forgiveness from You for that which You know. And I ask You for the good that You know, and I seek refuge in You from the evil that You know, and I ask Your forgiveness for all sins." And he said: "O Allah, teach me the Book and the reckoning, grant me understanding of wisdom, and teach me the interpretation." [Sunan Ibn Majah 3761]