اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear [You], from a soul that is never satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'.
When to Read
This profound supplication is particularly relevant when embarking on the journey of seeking knowledge, or at any point when you feel your studies might be veering towards vanity, or when knowledge seems to bring no practical benefit or fear of Allah into your heart. Recite it especially when facing distractions or intellectual challenges that might lead you astray.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a humble heart, fully comprehending its meaning. Raise your hands in supplication as is the practice for seeking refuge with Allah. Focus on the request, asking Allah to shield you from knowledge that is merely academic or boastful, rather than transformative and beneficial.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly addresses the core of seeking beneficial knowledge. It asks Allah for protection from four interconnected ailments: useless knowledge, a heart lacking awe of Allah, an insatiable soul, and unanswered prayers. By seeking refuge from 'knowledge that does not benefit,' we are implicitly asking for the *barakah* (blessing) and true understanding that guides us towards righteousness, not just accumulation of facts. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who was the most knowledgeable of creation, still sought Allah's refuge from such things, highlighting its critical importance for all believers.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Zayd ibn Arqam that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear [You], from a soul that is never satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard.' (Sahih Muslim 2722)