اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me by what You have taught me, and teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma anfa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman
When to Read
This dua is perfect for when you're engaging with ancient scholarly works, especially those with complex language or metaphors that are proving difficult to grasp. Recite it before you begin your study session, or whenever you feel stuck and in need of divine clarity. It's particularly fitting when delving into texts that require deep contemplation and understanding, where the literal meaning might obscure a deeper wisdom.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and focus. Raise your hands slightly, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to do when supplicating. Begin by acknowledging Allah's power and knowledge. Utter the words clearly and reflect on their meaning: asking for benefit from existing knowledge, requesting knowledge that is beneficial, and seeking an increase in this beneficial knowledge. Imagine Allah opening your mind and heart to understand the intricate meanings within the texts you are studying. It’s a prayer for not just accumulation of information, but for true understanding and wisdom.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication directly asks Allah for the most valuable forms of knowledge: that which benefits the individual and is revealed through divine teaching. It acknowledges that true understanding comes from Allah alone. By seeking beneficial knowledge, we aim to gain wisdom that can guide our actions, purify our intentions, and bring us closer to our Creator. The increase in knowledge is not merely about more facts, but about deeper insight and awareness, which is a continuous journey.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'There is no one who is struck by affliction and says: > **Arabic:** إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ، اللَّهُمَّ أْجُرْنِي فِي مُصِيبَتِي، وَأَخْلِفْ لِي خَيْرًا مِنْهَا > **Translation:** 'We belong to Allah and to Him we return. O Allah, reward me in my affliction and give me something better than it.' > > ...except that Allah will reward him for his affliction and give him something better than it. (Sahih Muslim 918) *Note: The provided dua for knowledge is found in Sunan Ibn Majah 3833 and is commonly used in this context. The longer hadith above is provided for general context on supplication, but the core dua for knowledge is the focus here.*