اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ سَمْعِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ بَصَرِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ لِسَانِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ قَلْبِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ مَنِيِّي.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of my hearing, and from the evil of my sight, and from the evil of my tongue, and from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen/discharge.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min sharri sam'i, wa min sharri basari, wa min sharri lisani, wa min sharri qalbi, wa min sharri maniyyi.
When to Read
This comprehensive dua is excellent to recite when beginning your workday, before entering your business premises, or at any time you feel concerned about potential harm or negativity affecting your livelihood. It's particularly useful when dealing with difficult clients or competitors, or when facing uncertainty in the market. Making it a habit, perhaps after Fajr or before Dhuhr prayer, can bring peace of mind.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and conviction, visualizing Allah's protection encompassing you and your business. Raise your hands as you would in supplication. Focus on each part of the dua, recognizing the potential harms from one's own senses and internal states, and seeking Allah's refuge from all external evils. Repeat it as needed throughout the day.
Virtues & Benefits
While this specific dua focuses on seeking refuge from personal harm in one's senses and heart, its underlying principle of seeking Allah's protection is fundamental. By asking Allah to shield you from the 'evil of my hearing, sight, tongue, and heart,' you are essentially seeking protection from the negative influences that can stem from gossip, slander, bad intentions, and ill perceptions, which can all play a role in business conflicts. Furthermore, the general principle of turning to Allah in times of need, especially when facing challenges from others, brings immense peace, strengthens faith, and invites divine assistance. The Quran reminds us: "And whoever relies on Allah - He is sufficient for him." (Surah At-Talaq 65:3). Relying on Allah's protection inherently guards against the harm others might intend.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to seek refuge with Allah from the evil of what was unlawful (munkar) and that which was unlawful (haram). He would say: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of my hearing, and from the evil of my sight, and from the evil of my tongue, and from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my discharge (maniyyi).' (Translation: Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min sharri sam'i, wa min sharri basari, wa min sharri lisani, wa min sharri qalbi, wa min sharri maniyyi.)