Rabbi zidni 'ilma
A concise Qur'anic prayer asking Allah (SWT) to increase you in beneficial understanding. It is ideal before studying, reading, attending a lesson, revising, or beginning any serious effort to learn.
Recite it before studying, reading Qur'an, attending a class, revising for an exam, or asking a question you genuinely want to understand. The verse teaches the request generally; it does not prescribe an exam-only ritual or a fixed number of repetitions.
The Arabic and meaning are paired with Quran 20:114. No special promise or count is added without a cited basis.
Rabbi zidni 'ilma.
My Lord, increase me in knowledge.
In Surah Taha, Allah (SWT) tells the Prophet ﷺ not to hurry the recitation before revelation has been completed to him, then teaches him to say: 'My Lord, increase me in knowledge.' The surrounding verse ties learning to patience, careful reception, and dependence on Allah (SWT).
The request is not merely for more information. Beneficial knowledge should deepen understanding and improve action. Pair the dua with preparation: study carefully, revise honestly, ask for help, and then trust Allah (SWT) with the result.
The only thing in the Qur'an we are taught to always ask more of. Say it before studying, before reading, before any pursuit of understanding.
Is Rabbi zidni ilma a dua for exams?
It is a general Qur'anic dua for increased knowledge, so it is appropriate before studying or an exam. It should support real preparation, not replace it.
What does Rabbi zidni ilma mean?
It means: 'My Lord, increase me in knowledge.'
How many times should I recite it?
The verse does not set a fixed count. Say it sincerely whenever seeking knowledge and avoid presenting an invented number as prescribed.