اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ سَمْعِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ بَصَرِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ لِسَانِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ قَلْبِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ مَنِيِّي.
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of my hearing, and from the evil of my sight, and from the evil of my tongue, and from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen (or origin/discharge).
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min sharri sam'i, wa min sharri basari, wa min sharri lisani, wa min sharri qalbi, wa min sharri maniyyi.
When to Read
This powerful dua is best recited before entering any gathering, or at the beginning of an interaction where you anticipate idle talk, gossip, or backbiting. It's also beneficial to say it when you feel yourself being drawn into such conversations or if you are particularly concerned about the potential for such negative speech.
How to Read
Recite this supplication sincerely, with full presence of heart and mind. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's protection from the negative consequences of your own senses and heart, which can inadvertently lead to or participate in harmful speech like gossip. It's a personal plea, so it can be recited quietly, even internally, as you prepare to engage with others or find yourself in a situation where such speech might occur.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua seeks Allah's protection against various forms of internal and external harm that can manifest through our senses and desires. Specifically concerning gatherings, seeking refuge from the 'evil of my tongue' directly addresses the potential for backbiting and gossip. By protecting our tongue, we protect ourselves and others from the spiritual damage caused by such speech, which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described as a severe sin. Safeguarding our hearing and sight also helps us avoid being exposed to or encouraging such negativity. The inclusion of seeking refuge from the 'evil of my heart' is crucial, as intentions and thoughts often precede harmful speech, making it a holistic prayer for purity in our interactions.
Source & Authentication
Ammar bin Yasir (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to supplicate: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min sharri sam'i, wa min sharri basari, wa min sharri lisani, wa min sharri qalbi, wa min sharri maniyyi.' (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of my hearing, and from the evil of my sight, and from the evil of my tongue, and from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen.) [Sunan Abi Dawud 1551, graded Hasan]