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 before sleeping. Reciting it helps invoke Allah's protection over you throughout the night, safeguarding you from any physical or spiritual disturbances, including the distressing experience of sleep paralysis. It's part of the Sunnah to seek refuge in Allah when feeling vulnerable, and the time of sleep is certainly one such moment.
How to Read
Recite this dua three times when you lie down to sleep. Raise your hands as if you are asking for something earnestly, and then breathe into your hands and wipe them over your body. This practice, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, amplifies the seeking of Allah's protection.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught this dua as a comprehensive means of seeking Allah's protection. By reciting it, we acknowledge Allah's complete power over all creation and seek His shelter from any harm that may arise, seen or unseen. This offers immense peace of mind and a sense of security, knowing that we are under the Divine safeguard. It is a profound act of reliance (tawakkul) on Allah, especially when facing anxieties like sleep paralysis.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'O people, seek refuge with Allah and turn to Him in repentance from the evil of what He has created.' He then taught them this dua: '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), and said: 'He who says this will be protected from all harm until he wakes up in the morning.' He also said: 'When you go to bed, recite the Ayatul Kursi and Allah will appoint a guard for you who will not leave you, and no devil will come near you until you wake up in the morning.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 2311, Sahih Muslim 2710). While Ayatul Kursi is excellent, the specific dua requested focuses on seeking refuge from all created evils, directly addressing potential disturbances during sleep.