اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant for our elderly brothers and sisters living alone. While this specific dua is a comprehensive supplication for daily life, its essence – seeking Allah's blessings in knowledge, sustenance, and deeds – is crucial for maintaining well-being and purpose, even when facing solitude. It can be recited after any obligatory prayer, or at any time of the day, especially when the feeling of loneliness sets in, as a way to refocus on Allah's support and the importance of maintaining a connection with Him.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a sincere heart, turning to Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) with complete reliance. It's best to recite it after finishing your prayers, raising your hands slightly as you make the supplication. Believe that Allah hears your plea and will respond in the best way possible. The emphasis is on seeking Allah's divine assistance and recognizing that true companionship and well-being come from Him.
Virtues & Benefits
This beautiful dua, taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to his noble wife Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her), encapsulates seeking the best in this life and the hereafter. For the elderly living alone, it helps to: * **Combat feelings of isolation:** By focusing on 'ilm naafi' (beneficial knowledge), one can continue to learn and engage the mind, finding solace in understanding Allah's creation and commands. * **Ensure spiritual sustenance:** 'Rizqan tayyiban' (pure provision) is not just about material needs but also the purity of one's sustenance, which impacts one's spiritual state and overall well-being. * **Maintain purpose:** 'Amalan mutaqabbalan' (acceptable deeds) encourages continued striving in worship and good actions, providing a sense of purpose and connection to the Divine, regardless of physical company. This prayer is a profound reminder that even in solitude, we are never truly alone when connected to Allah.
Source & Authentication
Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ, after he said the taslim at the end of the prayer, used to say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, pure provision, and acceptable deeds.) - Sunan Ibn Majah 925