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 and His punishment, and from the evil of His servants, and from the whisperings of devils and from their presence.
A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min ghadabihi wa 'iqabihi, wa sharri 'ibadihi, wa min hamazatis-shayatini wa an yahdurun
When to Read
This powerful dua is particularly relevant when praying, especially if one feels vulnerable to the evil eye (al-'ayn) or hasad (envy). It can be recited before starting Salah, during moments of distraction, or after completing the prayer to safeguard oneself from any negative influences that might arise from others' envy or ill will, whether intentional or not.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction. Focus on the meaning and the immense power of Allah's words. It is best recited before beginning your prayer, or during moments of reflection within the prayer itself. You can also make it a habit to recite it as a form of spiritual protection throughout your day, especially when you feel people are looking at you with envy or if you're concerned about their intentions.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates seeking protection in Allah's complete and perfect words, a source of immense strength and safety. By reciting it, we are invoking Allah's protection against His own anger, the consequences of our actions, the evil of mankind, and the insidious whispers of Shaytan. It serves as a comprehensive shield, particularly vital when one is engaged in the most sacred act of worship, making oneself more susceptible to spiritual attacks if one is not properly guarded.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abdullah ibn Khubayb (may Allah be pleased with him): 'We went out on a very dark and rainy night, looking for the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) to lead us in prayer. We found him and he said: 'Pray.' I prayed but he did not come out with us. Then he said: 'Pray.' I prayed but he did not come out with us. Then he said: 'Pray.' I prayed but he did not come out with us. Then he said: 'I prayed, and I did not come out with you.' He said: 'We were looking for him, and he said: 'Say: *A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq*' (I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created). He did not leave anything untouched.' Abdullah ibn Khubayb said: 'So I learned this dua and I used to recite it every night and every morning. I recited it once every year and it protected me from the harm of everything.' - Sahih Muslim 2708. Another narration from Abdullah ibn Khubayb states: 'The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said to me: 'O Abdullah ibn Khubayb, recite the verses 'Qul Huwallahu Ahad' and the two 'Mu'awwidhatayn' (Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas) three times each in the morning and evening. They will suffice you for everything.' - Sahih Abu Dawud 5082. The dua used in the main entry is a more comprehensive form found in Sahih Muslim, covering broader aspects of seeking refuge.