أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ
I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan.
A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajeem
When to Read
This is the foundational step when you feel anger rising. Before even uttering a specific dua against anger, seeking refuge in Allah from Shaytan is crucial. Shaytan is the instigator of many negative emotions, including anger, and he whispers evil suggestions to fuel it. Reciting this upon feeling the first signs of irritation or rage helps create a spiritual shield.
How to Read
Recite this phrase sincerely, focusing on the meaning of seeking Allah's protection from the deceitful whispers of Shaytan, who thrives on causing conflict and distress. It's recommended to also change your physical state if possible, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ advised.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge from Shaytan is a direct command from Allah in the Quran (Al-A'raf 7:200). It weakens Shaytan's influence over you, making it easier to control your anger and act rationally. This act of remembrance (dhikr) brings you closer to Allah and invokes His protection.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Sulaiman bin Sard (may Allah be pleased with him): I was sitting with the Prophet (peace be upon him) and two men were slandering each other. The face of one of them became red and his neck veins bulged out. Upon this the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "I know a word, if he (only) says it, all the anger he experiences will go away." (The companion asked what it was). He said, "He should say: 'A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajeem' (I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan)."