اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me through what You have taught me, and teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma infa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilman.
When to Read
This dua is profoundly relevant for our elders. As they enter a stage of life where physical strength may wane, their minds can remain sharp and their capacity to learn and share knowledge a powerful source of ongoing reward. It's perfect for reciting daily, especially during quiet moments of reflection, after prayer, or whenever one feels a desire to connect with Allah for guidance and spiritual growth. For our elderly loved ones, encouraging them to make this dua can help them feel a continued purpose and connection to the Ummah.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and heartfelt conviction. Face the Qiblah if possible, though it's not a strict condition. Raise your hands, palms facing upwards, in supplication. Begin with praising Allah and sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Say the dua with clarity, focusing on the meaning of each word. Remember, the most important aspect is the sincerity of the heart and the belief that Allah will respond.
Virtues & Benefits
This beautiful dua encapsulates a profound desire for lifelong learning and beneficial application of that knowledge. For the elderly, it serves as a powerful request to Allah to keep their minds active and their wisdom relevant. It ensures that their years of experience are not lost but rather continue to be a source of light for themselves and others. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself taught this dua, highlighting its immense value. By asking Allah to 'benefit me through what You have taught me,' we acknowledge His blessings. Asking Him to 'teach me that which will benefit me' shows our humility and desire for true understanding. Finally, 'and increase me in knowledge' is a continuous plea for growth, ensuring that the journey of seeking knowledge never truly ends, even in old age. This continuous pursuit of knowledge is a form of worship and can be a means of attaining a higher station in Paradise.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'Ask Allah for knowledge that is beneficial. And seek refuge with Allah from knowledge that is not beneficial.' The Companions said: 'And what is knowledge that is not beneficial?' He said: 'Knowledge of the heart that is not fearful, and knowledge of the tongue that is not with the remembrance [of Allah].' Then he said: 'Ask Allah for knowledge that is beneficial, and seek refuge with Allah from knowledge that is not beneficial, and say: O Allah, benefit me through what You have taught me, and teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.'