أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ الْعَظِيمِ وَبِوَجْهِهِ الْكَرِيمِ وَبِسُلْطَانِهِ الْقَدِيمِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ
I seek refuge in Allah the Almighty, and with His Noble Face, and by His Eternal Authority, from the accursed Shaytan.
A'udhu billahil-'Adheem wa bi Wajhihil-Kareem wa bi Sultanihil-Qadeem minash-Shaytanir-rajeem.
When to Read
This beautiful dua is specifically recited upon entering the Masjid (mosque). It’s a moment when we are transitioning from the outside world, which can be filled with distractions and the whispers of Shaytan, into the sacred space of Allah's House. Making this supplication at the threshold is like raising a shield, asking for divine protection as you prepare to worship.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and awareness before stepping foot inside the Masjid. It's traditionally recited after the dua for entering the home, or as a standalone supplication for entering any place of worship. Focus on the meaning of seeking refuge in Allah's immense power, noble countenance, and everlasting dominion against the specific threat of Shaytan.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua acts as a powerful invocation for protection against Shaytan's influence. Shaytan is known to try and distract us from our worship, to sow seeds of doubt, and to lead us astray. By seeking refuge in Allah's grandeur, we are asking Him to safeguard our hearts and minds from these insidious whispers, ensuring our focus remains on our prayer and remembrance of Him within His sacred house. This act also mirrors the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ practice of seeking Allah's refuge from specific evils.
Source & Authentication
Ibn al-Qayyim mentions in Zaad al-Ma'aad (1/121) that the Prophet ﷺ, when entering the mosque, would say: 'A'udhu billahil-'Adheem wa bi Wajhihil-Kareem wa bi Sultanihil-Qadeem minash-Shaytanir-rajeem.' (I seek refuge in Allah the Almighty, and with His Noble Face, and by His Eternal Authority, from the accursed Shaytan.) He would then say: 'Allahumma aftah li abwaaba rahmatik' (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.) when entering, and when leaving, he would say something similar asking for the doors of bounty.