Rabbi Zidni Ilma

This dua is the only "increase me" (zidnī) dua that Allah commanded our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) directly in the Noble Qur'an. It is striking that what is asked to be increased is neither wealth, nor property, nor children, nor lifespan — it is knowledge. This shows the lofty value of knowledge in the sight of Allah.

In the Noble Qur'an it is said: "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" (az-Zumar 9). Our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim" (Sunan Ibn Majah, Muqaddimah 17), and "Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave." The angels spread their wings for the seeker of knowledge (Sunan Abi Dawud, 'Ilm 1).

This short, three-word dua is immense in its greatness and scope. Knowledge here includes the knowledge of knowing Allah, the knowledge of the Qur'an, fiqh, hadith, and every beneficial piece of knowledge concerning life. This dua may be read especially before a lesson, before an examination, while reading a book, in gatherings of knowledge, and at any time.

By saying "O Allah! I seek refuge in You from knowledge that brings no benefit" (Sahih Muslim, Dhikr 73), our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also emphasised that the knowledge asked for must be beneficial knowledge.