The Book of Seeking Refuge with Allah

Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 5470

Hadith Text

"Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa'u, wa qalbin la yakhsha'u, wa du'a'in la yasma'u, wa nafsin la tashba'. (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from knowledge that is of no benefit, a heart that is not humble, a supplication that is not heard and a soul that is not satisfied.)" Then he would say: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min ha'ula'il-arba' (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from these four.)'"

Scholarly Commentary

This noble supplication contains profound wisdom. The Prophet (ﷺ) sought refuge from four spiritual ailments that corrupt the soul and invalidate deeds.

Knowledge without benefit refers to learning that doesn't lead to Allah's pleasure - either theoretical knowledge without practice, or knowledge used for worldly gain rather than spiritual elevation.

The unsubmissive heart indicates a heart hardened against divine guidance, lacking awe and reverence for Allah despite knowing His greatness.

The unheard supplication results from spiritual barriers - consuming unlawful provisions, heedlessness, or lack of presence before Allah during prayer.

The insatiable soul represents the nafs that constantly demands worldly pleasures, never content with Allah's decree, always seeking more temporal delights.

The repetition seeking refuge from "these four" emphasizes their severity and the need for constant vigilance against these spiritual diseases.

Practical Benefits

Reciting this dua regularly cultivates self-awareness and spiritual protection.

It reminds believers to seek beneficial knowledge that transforms character and increases piety.

It encourages developing a heart softened by Allah's remembrance and fearful of His displeasure.

It teaches the conditions for answered supplication: sincerity, lawful sustenance, and presence of heart.

It trains the soul to find contentment in Allah's decree rather than endless worldly pursuits.