اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ لاَ يَنْفَعُ، وَمِنْ قَلْبٍ لاَ يَخْشَعُ، وَمِنْ نَفْسٍ لاَ تَشْبَعُ، وَمِنْ دُعَاءٍ لاَ يُسْمَعُ.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear You, from a soul that is never satisfied, and from a prayer that is not answered.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'ilmin la yanfa', wa min qalbin la yakhsha', wa min nafsin la tashba', wa min du'a'in la yusma'.
When to Read
This dua is potent when you feel targeted by harsh words, mockery, or sarcastic remarks that wound your spirit. Recite it when you encounter individuals who belittle, deride, or engage in gossip that aims to harm. It's also beneficial when you feel your own intentions or actions are being misconstrued and attacked through dismissive or contemptuous language.
How to Read
This is a comprehensive supplication for seeking refuge from various forms of spiritual harm, including that which manifests through hurtful words. Recite it sincerely, focusing your heart on seeking Allah's protection. It's best to recite it during times of reflection, such as after your obligatory prayers, or whenever you feel the need for this specific shield. Raising your hands slightly in supplication can enhance the focus, though it's not a strict requirement for this particular dua.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge in Allah from these specific afflictions brings immense peace and strengthens one's spiritual resilience. By asking Allah to shield you from unbeneficial knowledge, you protect yourself from pride and arrogance that can stem from it. Protection from a heart that does not fear Allah guards you against hardness and insensitivity. Shielding yourself from a soul that is never satisfied prevents greed, envy, and dissatisfaction, which often fuel derision towards others. Finally, asking that your prayers be heard ensures Allah's divine attention and acceptance, a profound mercy. This dua, by encompassing these critical areas, provides a holistic shield against the negative energies that can be amplified by sarcastic and derisive speech, often stemming from the 'evil eye' of envy or contempt.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to seek refuge in Allah from the evil of what he had created, from the evil of arrogance, from the evil of the eye, from the evil of magic, from the evil of sorcery, from the evil of the envious, from the evil of the hateful, from the evil of the proud, from the evil of the unjust, and from the evil of those who lie. He also used to say: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowledge that does not benefit, from a heart that does not fear You, from a soul that is never satisfied, and from a prayer that is not answered.'