اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لَا يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لَا يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لَا تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لَا 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 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 conflicting information, or when doubts begin to creep into your heart regarding religious matters or life decisions. It's also a wise practice to recite it regularly, perhaps after every prayer, to maintain a constant state of seeking Allah's protection against these internal struggles.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. Raise your hands as you normally would for supplication. Focus on the meaning of each phrase, truly feeling your need for Allah's guidance and protection against harmful knowledge and internal turmoil. Say it with conviction, asking Allah directly for His help.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encompasses seeking refuge from four significant spiritual ailments. Firstly, protection from 'knowledge that does not benefit' shields us from information that is either useless, misleading, or leads us astray. It encourages us to seek beneficial knowledge that brings us closer to Allah and improves our lives. Secondly, seeking refuge from a 'heart that does not fear' protects us from spiritual callousness, urging us to maintain a God-consciousness that guides our actions. Thirdly, protection from a 'soul that is not satisfied' guards against greed and constant dissatisfaction, fostering contentment with Allah's decree. Finally, seeking refuge from 'a prayer that is not answered' reminds us to ensure our prayers are sincere and aligned with what is good, while also acknowledging that Allah answers in ways we may not always perceive.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to seek refuge with Allah using these words: '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'.' (Sahih Muslim 2722). This hadith highlights the Prophet's ﷺ own practice of seeking Allah's protection from common human weaknesses and spiritual dangers.