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 powerful dua is recommended to be recited when evening approaches, especially as the temperature drops and the night air sets in. It's a beautiful practice to incorporate into your daily evening routine, perhaps just before settling down for the night or when stepping out into the cooler evening air. Think of it as a spiritual shield against the potential discomforts and unseen harms associated with the transition into night.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a full heart, believing in the power of Allah's words. It's best recited three times for comprehensive protection, as is the Sunnah for many seeking refuge. Visualize yourself enveloped in Allah's protection as you utter these words. You can raise your hands slightly in supplication or simply place your hand over your heart.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication is not merely about warding off physical cold but seeking comprehensive refuge from all forms of evil that Allah has created, which can manifest in various ways, including the harshness of the weather and other unseen afflictions that the night might bring. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this specific phrasing, emphasizing the 'perfect words of Allah' – a testament to their completeness and efficacy in providing protection. Reciting it consistently reinforces our reliance on Allah, the Ultimate Protector, and cultivates a mindful connection with Him throughout the day and night.
Source & Authentication
The hadith describes that when the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would take refuge (i.e., seek protection), he would say: '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). He repeated this three times in the evening.