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 not satisfied, and from a prayer that is not answered.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsil la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant in our age of abundant, often unfiltered information. Recite it when you feel overwhelmed by conflicting viewpoints, when you are seeking knowledge, or before engaging with complex or potentially misleading topics. It's a powerful shield against the confusion that can arise from falsehoods masquerading as truth, or from acquiring knowledge without the inner guidance and fear of Allah that makes it beneficial.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a present heart, understanding the meaning of each phrase. Raise your hands as you would during supplication. Focus on the plea for Allah's protection, recognizing that true benefit and guidance come only from Him. It can be recited in the morning and evening, as part of your regular supplications.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua shields us from four critical dangers: 1. **Knowledge that doesn't benefit:** This refers to knowledge that doesn't lead to righteous action, doesn't increase one's fear of Allah, or is simply useless trivia. It protects us from becoming intellectually puffed up without spiritual substance. 2. **A heart that doesn't fear Allah:** A heart devoid of awe and reverence for Allah is susceptible to sin and heedlessness. This part of the dua seeks a heart that is alive with His remembrance. 3. **A soul that is not satisfied:** An insatiable soul constantly craves more, leading to greed, envy, and discontent. Seeking satisfaction in what Allah has decreed is crucial for inner peace. 4. **A prayer that is not answered:** While Allah answers all prayers in some way, this seeks the acceptance and efficacy of our supplications, ensuring they are heard and responded to appropriately. By asking for protection from these, we safeguard our spiritual and intellectual well-being.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah (bin Mas’ud) reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) used to supplicate: اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا يُسْمَعُ (Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsil la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'). This Hadith is found in Sahih Muslim, Book 004, Hadith 1797.