اللَّهُمَّ انْفَعْنِي بِمَا عَلَّمْتَنِي، وَعَلِّمْنِي مَا يَنْفَعُنِي، وَزِدْنِي عِلْمًا
O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.
Allahumma anfa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilma
When to Read
This is a powerful dua to recite at any time, but it's particularly poignant to make this supplication as one enters old age, or when observing the elderly. It's a plea to Allah (SWT) to not only retain the knowledge we've acquired but to ensure it remains beneficial and to continue growing in understanding, even as physical strength may wane. Consider reciting it daily, perhaps after your obligatory prayers, or during moments of reflection.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and humility. Raise your hands as you would in other supplications, facing the Qiblah if possible. Focus on the meaning of the words: acknowledging Allah's (SWT) teaching, asking for its benefit in this life and the next, and seeking an increase in beneficial knowledge. It's a request for continued spiritual and intellectual vitality.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a direct request for divine assistance in retaining and expanding beneficial knowledge. Knowledge ('ilm) in Islam is not just about academic subjects; it encompasses understanding Allah's (SWT) signs, His commands, and how to live a life pleasing to Him. By asking Allah to 'benefit me with what You have taught me,' we acknowledge His grace and seek to apply what we know. Asking Allah to 'teach me that which will benefit me' shows our desire for guidance towards useful knowledge. Finally, 'increase me in knowledge' is a plea for continuous growth, ensuring our minds remain active and our connection to Allah (SWT) deepens, regardless of age. Beneficial knowledge is a continuous charity, and remaining a source of it in old age is a great blessing.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan.' (O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, a good provision, and deeds that are accepted.) Then he would say: 'Allahumma inni as'aluka al-huda wat-tuqa wal-'afafa wal-ghina.' (O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and contentment.) And it was narrated from him that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma anfa'ni bima 'allamtani, wa 'allimni ma yanfa'uni, wa zidni 'ilma.' (O Allah, benefit me with what You have taught me, teach me that which will benefit me, and increase me in knowledge.)