أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ
I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.
A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq
When to Read
This supplication is recommended to be recited in the evening, as part of the adhkār (remembrances) prescribed for the night. It’s particularly relevant as we transition from the day's activities, where our nafs might have been exposed to various temptations or weaknesses, into the stillness of the night. Reciting it before sleep or as the sun sets helps us seek Allah's protection as we enter a more vulnerable state.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and focus, ideally three times in the evening. Raise your hands slightly if you are alone, or recite it with a calm demeanor if in company. The key is to feel the plea for refuge in Allah's perfect words, acknowledging His power over all creation and seeking His shield against any harm, especially the internal struggles of the nafs. Remember that adhkār are not merely words, but a connection with Allah.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful supplication offers comprehensive protection. By seeking refuge in Allah's perfect words, we acknowledge His absolute power and knowledge. The 'evil of what He has created' encompasses all forms of harm, including the whispers and temptations of the nafs, which often lead us astray from Allah's path. Regular recitation in the evening helps safeguard our hearts and minds during the night, promoting peace and preventing the nafs from overpowering us. It reinforces our reliance on Allah, the ultimate protector, and strengthens our spiritual resilience.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: A man came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said, "O Allah's Messenger! What a terrible thing that has happened to my family and my property today!" The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Do not say: 'What a terrible thing that has happened today.' Rather say: 'Bismillah' (In the name of Allah). For the statement 'What a terrible thing that has happened today' causes Allah to be angry with him, and then He says: 'There is no harm; I have forgiven what happened.'" Then he said, "When any of you goes to sleep, let him say: 'أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَعِقَابِهِ، وَشَرِّ عِبَادِهِ، وَمِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَأَنْ يَحْضُرُونِ' (I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from His anger, His punishment, the evil of His servants, and from the temptations of devils and their presence). For if he says this, then nothing will harm him." And 'Abdullah bin Abi Shuba, narrated it from Ibn Al-Muthanna with these words: 'Seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He created.' This version is more complete (in meaning).