اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, make beneficial for me what You have taught me, and teach me what is beneficial for me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma infa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilma
When to Read
This dua is perfect to recite when you're starting a new topic, struggling with a complex subject, or sitting down to study. It's a direct request to Allah for the practical application and increase of knowledge. Recite it before you begin your studies, when you feel overwhelmed by a difficult text, or even at the beginning of your day if you're seeking clarity in your learning pursuits.
How to Read
Begin by making sincere intention. Understand that you are asking the Creator of all knowledge for assistance. Recite the dua with conviction, focusing on its meaning. Ideally, face the Qiblah and raise your hands slightly. Breathe deeply and visualize the knowledge you seek becoming clear and accessible. This dua is often recited after the obligatory prayers, but can be made at any time, especially when the need arises.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua, narrated by Ibn Majah and graded Hasan, directly asks Allah for three crucial things: making existing knowledge beneficial, learning what is beneficial, and increasing in knowledge. When we ask for knowledge to be beneficial, we're asking for the ability to understand it, retain it, and apply it in our lives and for the betterment of others. Asking Allah to teach us what is beneficial ensures we pursue knowledge that is pleasing to Him and truly serves a purpose. Finally, asking for an increase in knowledge is a continuous pursuit of growth, reflecting the Islamic emphasis on lifelong learning. By making this dua, we align our efforts with divine guidance, seeking clarity and deep comprehension.
Source & Authentication
The hadith states: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, provision that is good and lawful, and deeds that are accepted). And when he learned this dua, he started saying it. This specific wording for understanding difficult subjects comes from the prayer taught to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ by Jibril (peace be upon him) when he was asked to teach the Prophet ﷺ how to pray Istikhara. The wording used here focuses on the knowledge aspect and is widely taught and recommended for students and seekers of knowledge. [Note: While the core of the dua relates to beneficial knowledge, the specific wording 'Allahumma infa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilma' is a distinct supplication for increased and applicable knowledge, often attributed to the teachings for seeking beneficial knowledge.]