اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا.
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, good provision, and deeds that are accepted.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.
When to Read
This dua is particularly potent when recited during Tahajjud. The stillness of the night, the act of waking for Allah, and the focused intention to seek beneficial knowledge make it an ideal time to ask Allah for the ability to memorize His Book. You can make this a regular part of your Tahajjud supplication, especially after completing your prayers and before engaging in the actual memorization.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Face the Qiblah if possible, raise your hands in supplication as the Prophet ﷺ used to do, and beseech Allah with conviction. Recognize that memorizing the Quran is a great undertaking, and its success lies entirely with Allah's grace. Start by affirming your reliance on Him and then present your request.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses seeking three crucial aspects that support the journey of becoming a Hafiz: 'beneficial knowledge' (which includes the knowledge of the Quran and its sciences), 'good provision' (which can free up your time and mental space for memorization), and 'accepted deeds' (as accepted deeds are more likely to be met with Allah's assistance and blessings). Seeking Allah's help in these areas directly contributes to making the arduous task of memorizing the Quran smoother and more fruitful. Allah's acceptance of our deeds is a sign of His pleasure, and His pleasure is the key to all success.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate after the night prayer (Isha) and before going to sleep: 'O Allah, forgive me my past and future sins, what I have concealed and what I have proclaimed. You are the Foremost and You are the Last. There is no deity worthy of worship except You.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 3808). Another narration, from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), mentions the Prophet ﷺ teaching her this specific dua: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (Sunan Ibn Majah 925). This specific dua is for asking beneficial knowledge, good sustenance, and accepted deeds.