اللَّهُمَّ عَلِّمْهُ الْكِتَابَ وَالْحِكْمَةَ
O Allah, teach him the Book and wisdom.
Allahumma 'allimhu al-kitaba wal-hikmah
When to Read
This supplication is incredibly beautiful and can be made for your child from infancy. It's perfect to recite when you see your child beginning to show interest in learning, or when they start their educational journey – be it at home with you, or when they begin school. You can also make this dua for yourself, asking Allah to grant you the ability to effectively teach your child and impart wisdom. Recite it before your child sits down to study, or during your personal duas.
How to Read
Make this sincere dua with full conviction in Allah's power to grant knowledge. Raise your hands, as is the sunnah when making dua. Focus on the meaning of the words, envisioning your child absorbing knowledge and wisdom from Allah. You can repeat it three times, blowing gently onto your child (if they are present and comfortable with this), or onto something they will use for learning, like their books or pen. The key is sincerity and consistency.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking this knowledge directly from Allah is paramount. The Prophet ﷺ himself supplicated for Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) with these exact words, and Ibn Abbas became one of the most knowledgeable companions, a renowned scholar and mufassir (Quran commentator). By making this dua, we are seeking Allah's divine assistance in granting our children beneficial knowledge ('ilm naafi') that not only benefits them in this life but also earns them rewards in the hereafter. It also helps in developing wisdom (hikmah), which is the ability to use knowledge appropriately and effectively.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both): The Prophet (ﷺ) took hold of my shoulder and said, "O Allah, teach him the Book (Al-Quran)." Sahih al-Bukhari 143.