اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, good provisions, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This dua is ideally recited before sleeping. It's a beautiful practice to ask Allah for these three essential things – knowledge that benefits, sustenance that is pure, and deeds that are accepted – as we entrust ourselves to His protection during our sleep. By making this supplication, we're seeking to ensure that even in our state of unconsciousness, our intentions and our spiritual well-being remain aligned with what pleases Allah.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction before lying down to sleep. It's recommended to be in a state of Wudu (ritual purity) if possible, and to face the Qiblah. Reflect on the meaning of each request: the importance of knowledge that guides us, sustenance that is lawful and pure, and actions that are truly accepted by our Lord. This isn't just a recitation; it's a profound plea for ongoing spiritual growth and acceptance.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua, though seemingly simple, encompasses a comprehensive request for a well-rounded Muslim life. Beneficial knowledge guides us to the truth and helps us implement it. Good provisions ensure we are sustained without resorting to unlawful means, allowing us to worship Allah with a pure heart. Acceptable deeds are those performed with sincerity for Allah's sake and in accordance with His commands, leading to His pleasure and reward. By asking for these, especially before sleep, we are seeking Allah's continued guidance and acceptance even when our consciousness is diminished, safeguarding our spiritual state.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to teach us the Istikharah prayer in all matters as he taught us the Surahs of the Quran. He would say: ‘When one of you intends to undertake a matter, let him perform two Rak'ahs of prayer other than the obligatory ones, and then say: O Allah, I seek guidance from Your knowledge and power by Your grace, for indeed You know and I do not know, and You have power and I do not have power, and You know all the unseen. O Allah, if You know that this matter is good for me in my religion, my livelihood and the end of my affairs, then decree it for me and make it easy for me, and then bless me in it. And if You know that this matter is evil for me in my religion, my livelihood and the end of my affairs, then turn it away from me and turn me away from it, and decree for me whatever is good and make me accept of it.’ And he said: ‘And let him mention his need.’” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3807). While this hadith specifically refers to Istikharah, the emphasis on seeking beneficial knowledge, pure sustenance, and accepted deeds is a core element of seeking Allah's blessings in all aspects of life, including the transition from wakefulness to sleep. Another relevant supplication made by the Prophet (peace be upon him) upon waking often included asking for knowledge, sustenance and good deeds, reflecting its importance throughout the day and night. For instance, a similar sentiment is echoed in the dua made before sleeping: "O Allah, by Your name I live and by Your name I die." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6312), which shows our complete reliance on Him even in sleep. This specific dua for beneficial knowledge, good provisions, and accepted deeds (Sunan Ibn Majah 3807) is thus a comprehensive supplication for maintaining spiritual integrity.