بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْخُبُثِ وَالْخَبَائِثِ
In the name of Allah. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from male and female devils (or impurities).
Bismillahi, Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-khubuthi wal-khaba'ith
When to Read
This dua is recited **before entering** the toilet/bathroom, not upon exiting. The dua recited upon exiting is different. However, understanding the connection to purity and seeking refuge is vital for overall well-being, which is indirectly related to protection from ailments.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and focus on the meaning, seeking Allah's protection from spiritual and physical harm that might be associated with places of impurity. It is best recited before one's feet cross the threshold of the bathroom.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge in Allah before entering the toilet is a Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This act is a means of protection from the evil that may be present in such places, including unseen creatures that inhabit them. By invoking Allah's name and seeking His refuge, we are shielded from potential harm, both spiritual and physical, which can include ailments. The scholars explain that 'khubuth' refers to male devils and 'khaba'ith' refers to female devils, or that it refers to all evil and all impure things. This seeking of refuge is a general protection for the believer.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, when he went to answer the call of nature, would say: 'Bismillahi, Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-khubuthi wal-khaba'ith.' (In the name of Allah. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from male and female devils (or impurities).) Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6306, Sahih Muslim 375.