مَا شَاءَ اللَّهُ لَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللَّهِ
'What Allah wills, there is no power except with Allah.'
Masha Allah, la quwwata illa billah
When to Read
This beautiful phrase is a powerful antidote to the potential harm of the evil eye ('ayn). It's something you should say whenever you see something impressive, beautiful, or blessed – whether it's in another person, their belongings, or even a general observation about nature. Instead of just admiring something, say 'MashaAllah' to attribute the blessing directly to Allah. This not only acknowledges His grace but also acts as a spiritual shield, preventing envy or an unintended ill effect from your gaze.
How to Read
Recite this phrase sincerely, with the full understanding that all power and capability come from Allah alone. When you see something that makes you say 'wow' – a healthy child, a beautiful home, a successful venture – let 'Masha Allah, la quwwata illa billah' be your immediate response. It’s not just a formality; it's a reflection of your belief in Allah's ultimate control and a way to protect yourself and others from the spiritual malady of 'ayn.
Virtues & Benefits
The primary benefit of saying 'Masha Allah, la quwwata illa billah' is safeguarding against the evil eye. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us that 'ayn is real and can even cause a man to ascend a mountain and fall down.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 5738). This phrase, by acknowledging Allah's will and power, deflects any negative energy or envy that might arise. It also reinforces our own Tawhid (Oneness of Allah) by constantly reminding us that nothing happens without His permission and that true strength lies only with Him.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'The effect of an evil eye is real,...' and he mentioned the saying of Allah's Almighty: '...and the man who has been afflicted with an evil eye should take a bath.' (The narrator added that 'Aishah used to order that the person who had afflicted the patient with an evil eye should perform ablution (for the bath).) Sahih al-Bukhari 5738. In another narration: Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'What Allah has willed (is the reality). There is no power but with Allah.' Sahih al-Bukhari 5165. (This is often understood as a response to something impressive or enviable, with the implication that the blessing comes from Allah, and protection is from Him.)