اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا طَيِّبًا، وَعَمَلًا مُتَقَبَّلًا
O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, goodly provision, and acceptable deeds.
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
When to Read
This is the dua the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught to say upon waking up in the morning. While it's not exclusively for a 'contrite heart,' the desire for beneficial knowledge, good provision, and accepted deeds inherently fosters a state of reflection and a need for seeking Allah's favor and forgiveness, which are the seeds of repentance.
How to Read
Recite this dua immediately upon waking, before engaging in any other activity. It's recommended to do so before getting out of bed, turning your face towards the Qiblah if possible. Let the words sink in, reflecting on the immense blessings of waking up to a new day and the opportunity to strive for what is good in this life and the next.
Virtues & Benefits
This beautiful supplication encompasses the best of what a believer can ask for: seeking knowledge that benefits the soul and guides one's actions, provision that is pure and pleasing to Allah, and deeds that are accepted by Him. By asking for these, we indirectly cultivate a heart that is aware of its shortcomings and actively seeks to rectify them through sincere intention and action, leading to a state of repentance. The act of seeking accepted deeds implies a desire to purify one's actions and heart, which is central to repentance.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) that when the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ woke up, he would say: 'O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is useful, sustenance that is pure, and deeds that are acceptable.'