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, from the evil of my sight, from the evil of my tongue, from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen.
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 dua is particularly relevant when entering gatherings or situations where one might be exposed to harmful speech, gossip, backbiting, or even when one fears their own tongue might cause harm. Recite it before or upon entering such a setting, or even as a general supplication when one feels particularly vulnerable to the misuse of speech.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely with the intention of seeking Allah's protection. It can be recited once, or repeatedly, especially when feeling anxious about an upcoming gathering. Focus on the meaning of each phrase and reflect on the potential harms associated with each faculty mentioned.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua seeks protection for several critical aspects of a person's being, with a special emphasis on the 'evil of my tongue.' In gatherings, our tongues can be a source of immense good or great harm. By reciting this, we pray to be shielded from engaging in or being exposed to backbiting, slander, gossip, harsh words, or any form of speech that displeases Allah. It also seeks protection for our hearing (from listening to evil), sight (from looking at what is prohibited), heart (from harboring ill intentions), and our desires/semen (often interpreted as protection from unlawful sexual thoughts or actions, which can be influenced by what we see, hear, or think).
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr: The Prophet 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.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6306, also narrated in Sunan Abi Dawud 1554 and Sunan al-Tirmidhi 3492). *Note: While the primary source cited here is Sunan Abi Dawud for the exact wording, the concept and similar wording are found in Sahih al-Bukhari, highlighting its strong authentication.*