بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْخُبُثِ وَالْخَبَائِثِ
In the name of Allah. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the male and female devils.
Bismillah, Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-khubuthi wal-khaba'ith.
When to Read
This dua is recited specifically when one intends to enter the bathroom or toilet area. It is a Sunnah practice of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to seek protection before entering this place, which is often associated with unseen, impure entities.
How to Read
This dua should be recited upon approaching or before stepping into the bathroom. The Prophet ﷺ would enter the bathroom with his left foot and recite this dua. It's a moment of seeking Allah's protection before engaging in private matters. Imagine yourself turning towards the Kaaba to make dua; similarly, turn your intention to Allah for protection even in this humble place. The 'Bismillah' (In the name of Allah) is a general reminder to begin any action with Allah's name, but this specific dua adds a layer of protection unique to the environment of the bathroom.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua is a way to acknowledge Allah's provision of a private space for our needs while simultaneously seeking protection from spiritual harm. The bathroom, being a place of exposure and often associated with unseen beings, requires a special invocation of Allah's shield. The Prophet's ﷺ practice highlights the importance of seeking refuge even in seemingly mundane situations. It reminds us that Allah's presence and protection are to be sought in all circumstances, big or small. By seeking refuge from 'al-khubuthi wal-khaba'ith' (male and female devils or evil spirits), we are asking Allah to keep us safe from any negative influences that might be present.
Source & Authentication
The tradition is that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, when he went to relieve himself, would say: 'Bismillah, Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-khubuthi wal-khaba'ith.' (In the name of Allah. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the male and female devils.) - Sahih al-Bukhari 6306. Another narration in Sahih Muslim (375) mentions the Prophet ﷺ would say Bismillah and then enter with his left foot, and when he came out, he would say: Ghufraanaka (Seeking Your forgiveness).