أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَعِقَابِهِ، وَمِنْ شَرِّ 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 suggestions of devils, and from their presence.
A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min ghadabihi wa 'iqabihi, wa min sharri 'ibadihi, wa min hamazatish-shayateeni wa an yahdurun.
When to Read
This powerful dua is perfect for when you feel unease or fear as darkness descends, whether it's the transition from day to night, being in a dark room, or facing any situation that brings about fear associated with darkness. Recite it as you feel the fear creeping in, or as a proactive measure before sleep.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction. Focus on the meaning – that you are placing yourself under the protection of Allah's all-encompassing, perfect words, which are beyond any deficiency. Believe that Allah's words hold immense power to ward off all forms of evil and harm, including the anxieties that darkness can sometimes bring. It is recommended to recite it three times in the morning and three times in the evening for comprehensive protection.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua provides a shield of divine protection. By seeking refuge in Allah's perfect words, we acknowledge His supreme power over all creation and all forms of evil, including the whispers of Shaytan. It calms the heart, reduces anxiety, and instills a sense of security knowing that we are under Allah's care. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this dua specifically to guard against various harms, making it a vital part of our daily remembrance (dhikr) for protection.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'Whoever says this dua in the morning three times and in the evening three times, nothing will harm him.' (Sunan Abi Dawud 3892, Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3494). The wording in Tirmidhi specifies: 'I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.' (Sahih Muslim 2708). The longer version provides comprehensive seeking of refuge.