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 not satisfied, and from a supplication that is not heard.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsil la tashba', wa min da'a'in la yusma'.
When to Read
This is a comprehensive dua that can be recited at any time, especially after Salah or during the times when supplications are readily answered, such as between the Adhan and Iqamah, or during the last third of the night. It's particularly relevant when you feel your heart becoming hardened, heedless, or when you notice your acts of worship feeling hollow.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and deep reflection on its meaning. Raise your hands in supplication as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us. Visualize your heart softening under Allah's mercy and guidance, and ask Him to fill it with His remembrance and awe. Believe in the power of this dua and Allah's ability to grant your request.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua directly addresses afflictions of the heart, seeking protection from four key areas: 1. **Knowledge that doesn't benefit:** This refers to knowledge that doesn't lead to action, humility, or drawing closer to Allah. It can be a source of pride rather than guidance. 2. **A heart that doesn't fear:** This is a heart that lacks awe and reverence for Allah, leading to disobedience and heedlessness. True fear of Allah is what prevents us from sin. 3. **A soul that is not satisfied:** This describes a soul driven by excessive desires, greed, and constant dissatisfaction, which can never find true peace or contentment. 4. **A supplication that is not heard:** This refers to prayers that may not be answered due to hindrances like consuming unlawful earnings or having a heart full of heedlessness towards Allah. By seeking refuge from these, we aim for a heart that is alive, fearing Allah, content, and whose supplications are accepted.
Source & Authentication
The full hadith narrative leading to this dua often involves the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ teaching his companions specific phrases for seeking refuge from various evils. While this specific wording is widely known and taught, the context usually centers on the Prophet's ﷺ concern for the spiritual well-being of his Ummah and his desire to equip them with powerful means of seeking protection and purity.