بِسْمِ اللَّهِ، تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللَّهِ، وَلاَ حَوْلَ وَلاَ قُوَّةَ إِلاَّ بِاللَّهِ. اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ أَنْ أَضِلَّ أَوْ أُضَلَّ، أَوْ أَزِلَّ أَوْ أُزَلَّ، أَوْ أَظْلِمَ أَوْ أُظْلَمَ، أَوْ أَجْهَلَ أَوْ يُجْهَلَ عَلَيَّ.
In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah. There is no might nor power except with Allah. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from straying, or being led astray, or slipping, or causing others to slip, or wronging, or being wronged, or acting foolishly, or being treated foolishly.
Bismillahi, tawakkaltu 'alallahi, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah. Allahumma inni a'udhu bika an adilla aw udalla, aw azilla aw uzalla, aw azlima aw uzlama, aw ajhala aw yujhala 'alay.
When to Read
This dua is profoundly suitable for the beginning of any gathering, especially one where people come together to create, build, or share their skills – like a gathering of artisans and craftspeople. Recite it as you or the organizer starts the session, before delving into discussions, workshops, or collaborative projects. It's a beautiful way to imbue the collective effort with Barakah (blessings) and seek protection from any missteps or negative influences.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention as you begin the gathering. Utter the Arabic words clearly, understanding their meaning. The emphasis is on placing your trust in Allah (Tawakkul) and seeking His protection in all aspects of the meeting, from guidance and correct action to avoiding harm and ignorance. Consider reciting it individually before entering the shared space or as a group at the outset.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua offers protection against falling into error yourself or causing others to err, both intellectually and practically. It seeks refuge from committing injustice or being subjected to it, ensuring a fair and respectful environment. Furthermore, it guards against ignorance and foolishness, promoting clarity, wisdom, and productive engagement among participants. By starting with this dua, the gathering is framed around seeking Allah's help, guidance, and protection, fostering an atmosphere of Barakah and positive contribution.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught this dua to be recited when leaving one's home for a journey, but its comprehensive nature makes it applicable to the commencement of any significant undertaking or gathering where guidance and protection are sought. The core message of seeking refuge in Allah from misguidance, error, injustice, and ignorance is universal. Sunan Abi Dawud 4701: Narrated Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, "When a man goes out of his house and says: 'Bismillahi, tawakkaltu 'alallahi, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah,' it is said to him: 'You have been guided, you have been sufficed, and you have been protected.' Two devils will depart from him, and another devil will say to him: 'What is your recourse with a man who has been guided, sufficed, and protected?'" Sunan Ibn Majah 3875: Narrated Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever says when he sets out from his house: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika an adilla aw udalla, aw azilla aw uzalla, aw azlima aw uzlama, aw ajhala aw yujhala 'alay' (O Allah, I seek refuge in You lest I should stray or be led astray, or slip or be caused to slip, or do wrong or be wronged, or act foolishly or be acted upon foolishly), then Allah will say: 'The answer has been given to you and you are protected.'"