اللَّهُمَّ فَقِّهْهُ فِي الدِّينِ وَعَلِّمْهُ التَّأْوِيلَ
O Allah, grant him understanding of the religion and teach him the interpretation (of the Quran).
Allahumma faqqihhu fid-deeni wa 'allimhut-ta'weel
When to Read
This dua is traditionally recited by parents and guardians for a newborn, often during the Aqiqah (sacrifice for a newborn) or simply as a continuous supplication for the child's spiritual and intellectual development. It's a heartfelt prayer for the child to grow up with a deep comprehension of Islamic teachings and the wisdom to understand its nuances.
How to Read
This dua can be whispered to the newborn, perhaps while gently touching their head, or recited frequently after prayers. The sincerity of the heart is paramount. It is a father's supplication for his son, but the principle applies to daughters and all children under our care.
Virtues & Benefits
The primary benefit of this dua is seeking Allah's guidance for the child to gain profound understanding ('Fiqh') of the Deen (religion). This includes not just outward practices but also the inner meanings and wisdom ('Ta'weel') behind Islamic injunctions. It’s a prayer for the child to be a knowledgeable and practicing Muslim, capable of understanding and applying Islam in their life, and potentially sharing that knowledge with others.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) visited Dhuba'ah bint Al-Zubayr and said to her: 'What is this I see you doing? I think you are wanting to offer the sacrifice (of a sheep).' She replied, 'By Allah, O Messenger of Allah, I would not do so, except that I have heard that the sacrifice (of a camel) is considered something that one must offer, but I am not keen on it.' The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Indeed, that (sacrifice) is not something obligatory, but it is a good deed that you can do for your children. The best sacrifice for a girl is a ram, and for a boy is a goat. But what of that? If one of you has a son, one should shave his head and offer a sacrifice on behalf of the boy, and for the girl, one should not do that. And the blood of the sacrifice (of the ram or goat) should be wiped off the boy, and he should not be smeared with it. When is the boy circumcised?' He said: 'When he is seven years old.' The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'O Allah! Make him understand the religion and teach him the interpretation.' (This is referring to Abdullah bin Abi Rabi'ah who was born at that time.)