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 fear You, from a soul that is never satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yashsha', wa min nafsil la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'.
When to Read
This is a profound dua to recite regularly, especially during times of seeking knowledge, undertaking studies, or when feeling overwhelmed by information. It's particularly relevant when engaging with complex religious or worldly matters where one might be susceptible to misinterpretation, doubt, or intellectual arrogance.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and humility. Raise your hands as you would in supplication. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, truly feeling the need for Allah's protection against harmful knowledge and its consequences. It's best recited in the morning after Fajr prayer, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us to seek refuge in Allah each morning.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates seeking refuge from four critical spiritual ailments. Seeking protection from 'knowledge that does not benefit' is vital; knowledge without practical application, or worse, knowledge that leads one astray, is a source of immense regret. It reminds us that true benefit in knowledge comes when it leads to righteous action, increased Taqwa (God-consciousness), and a deeper understanding of our purpose. This protection shields us from intellectual pride and the misapplication of what we learn, ensuring our pursuit of knowledge is for the sake of Allah and ultimately beneficial for ourselves and others.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Zayd ibn Arqam (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us four sayings, so you should learn them: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear You, from a soul that is never satisfied, and from a supplication that is not answered.' A man asked, 'O Abu Umayr, what is this 'supplication that is not answered'?' He replied, 'It is the supplication for the riches of this world.' (This last part is a clarification by the narrator Zayd ibn Arqam, explaining one aspect of the dua).