اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْنِي الْحِكْمَةَ، وَأَلْهِمْنِي الرَّشَدَ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ نَفْسِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ كُلِّ دَابَّةٍ أَنْتَ آخِذٌ بِنَاصِيَتِهَا، وَأَنْ أَظْلِمَ أَوْ أُظْلَمَ.
O Allah, teach me wisdom, and inspire me with righteousness, and I seek refuge in You from the evil of my soul, and from the evil of every creature You are seizing by its forelock. And [I seek refuge in You] from wronging anyone or being wronged.
Allahumma 'allimni al-hikmata, wa alhimni ar-rashada, wa a'udhu bika min sharri nafsi, wa min sharri kulli dabbatin anta akhidhun bi-nasiyatiha, wa an azhlima aw uzhlama.
When to Read
This dua is particularly potent when recited during the stillness of Tahajjud (night prayer). When facing a significant decision, a difficult choice, or feeling unsure about the right path, dedicating a portion of your night prayer to seeking Allah's guidance through this supplication can bring clarity and peace.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and concentration during your Tahajjud prayer, preferably after the obligatory prayers or during your personal supplications within the prayer. Raise your hands as you normally would in dua, and beseech Allah with humility. It is also beneficial to reflect on the meaning of the words and truly internalize your plea for Allah's wisdom and protection.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua directly asks Allah for wisdom ('hikmah') and righteousness ('rushd'), qualities essential for making sound decisions. It also encompasses seeking refuge from inner evil (the desires of our own soul) and external harm, ensuring that our choices are protected from negative influences and unintended consequences. By seeking guidance at night, when the world is quiet and the connection with Allah is often felt more profoundly, you align yourself with a time when supplications are believed to be readily accepted. This practice cultivates reliance on Allah, acknowledging that true wisdom and success come only from Him.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught this dua to his companion Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him) when he asked the Prophet (peace be upon him) to teach him a comprehensive dua. The full narration emphasizes the comprehensiveness of this supplication, covering seeking guidance, protection from evil, and avoiding injustice. The context is that of seeking an all-encompassing dua that the Prophet (peace be upon him) would recite.