بِسْمِ اللَّهِ، تَعَوَّذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنْ شَرِّ هَذِهِ اللَّيْلَةِ وَمِنْ شَرِّ مَا فِيهَا. أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ.
In the name of Allah, I seek refuge in Allah from the evil of this night and from the evil of what is in it. I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.
Bismillah, ta'awwadhu billahi min sharri hadhihil-laylati wa min sharri ma fiha. A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq.
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant when guests arrive in the evening, or as part of our evening supplications (adhkar) when night falls. It's a way to invoke Allah's protection over our homes and our visitors during the hours of darkness.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction as evening descends. It can be recited when you first notice guests arriving in the evening, or as a general practice for the evening. Ensure you understand the meaning and feel the reliance on Allah as you utter the words. It's also a beautiful way to greet guests, making them feel protected and cared for from the outset.
Virtues & Benefits
Reciting this dua invokes Allah's protection against any potential harm or evil that might be present during the night. By seeking refuge in Allah's perfect words, we are entrusting our well-being and the well-being of our guests to the Almighty. This act reflects our dependence on Him and our awareness that true security comes only from Him. It also sets a tone of mindfulness and remembrance of Allah when interacting with others, especially during social gatherings.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'When the night descends, do not go out with your children and your camels, and say: 'Bismillah, ta'awwadhu billahi min sharri hadhihil-laylati wa min sharri ma fiha. A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq.' (In the name of Allah, I seek refuge in Allah from the evil of this night and from the evil of what is in it. I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.) For indeed, if anything in the night happens to be decreed, it will not harm them.' (Sahih Muslim 2708). While this hadith primarily addresses leaving home at night, the second part of the dua, 'A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq,' is a general supplication for protection against all evil, making it suitable for various situations including welcoming guests in the evening and seeking Allah's protection for them.