بِسْمِ اللَّهِ، أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَعِقَابِهِ، وَشَرِّ عِبَادِهِ، وَمِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَأَنْ يَحْضُرُونِ
In the name of Allah. I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from His anger and His punishment, from the evil of His servants, and from the promptings of devils and from their presence.
Bismillahi, a'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min ghadabihi wa 'iqabihi, wa sharri 'ibadihi, wa min hamazatis-shayateeni wa an yahdurun.
When to Read
This powerful dua is recommended to be recited before going to sleep. Experiencing disturbing dreams, nightmares, or feeling unsettled upon waking can sometimes be linked to unseen influences. By reciting this, we are actively seeking Allah's protection over ourselves during our slumber, a time when we are most vulnerable.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and full conviction in Allah's power to protect. It's best said as you prepare to lie down for sleep. Some scholars suggest reciting it three times for added protection, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in seeking refuge. Make sure you are in a state of purity if possible, though it is permissible to recite it even if not.
Virtues & Benefits
This supplication directly invokes Allah's perfect words for protection. It encompasses seeking refuge from His anger and punishment, shielding us from divine displeasure. Furthermore, it protects us from the evil of mankind and the whispers and presence of devils, who can influence our thoughts and dreams. By reciting this, we are essentially fortifying ourselves spiritually against negative influences that might manifest in our dreams, leading to a more peaceful and protected sleep.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from 'Abdullah bin 'Amr that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "When one of you sleeps, let him say: 'Allahumma a'udhu bi-wajhika al-karim, wa bikalimatika at-tammati min kulli shaytanin wa 'amm, wa min kulli 'aynin lamm.' (O Allah, I seek refuge in Your noble Face and Your perfect words from every devil and every beast.) Then if he dies that night, his death will be on the Fitrah (natural disposition). Let these words be the last he speaks." 'Abdullah bin 'Amr said: "I used to teach them to my adult sons and my grandson used to teach them to his children, the same way he heard them from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ)." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6306, Sahih Muslim 2710). The wording used in this entry is from Sahih Muslim 2710.