اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لاَ يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لاَ يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لاَ تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لاَ يُسْمَعُ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humble, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a prayer that is not answered.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'
When to Read
This powerful supplication is particularly relevant when you feel overwhelmed by information, struggle to focus on what truly matters, or feel a sense of stagnation in your spiritual or personal growth. It’s a beautiful prayer to recite upon waking, after Fajr, or at any time you wish to purify your intentions and seek Allah's guidance towards beneficial pursuits.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a humble heart, truly internalizing the meaning of each phrase. Raise your hands in supplication as you do, following the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ. Imagine yourself seeking the protection of Allah from these negative states, asking Him to replace them with what is good and beneficial.
Virtues & Benefits
By seeking refuge from 'knowledge that does not benefit,' we are asking Allah to grant us understanding that leads to righteous action and brings us closer to Him, rather than mere accumulation of facts. Asking refuge from a 'heart that does not feel humble' is a plea for *khushu'* (humility and concentration) in our worship and our lives. Seeking protection from a 'soul that is not satisfied' encourages contentment and gratitude for what Allah has provided, shielding us from greed and endless desire. Finally, asking refuge from 'a prayer that is not answered' prompts us to examine our actions and ensure our supplications are made with purity of intention and with due regard for Allah's will.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to supplicate: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'. (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not feel humble, from a soul that is not satisfied, and from a prayer that is not answered.)' He said: 'And I said it, and some of them have been mentioned before.'