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 hamazatis-shayateeni wa an yahdurun.
When to Read
This powerful dua is recited when leaving the Masjid. As we step out of the house of Allah, a place of immense barakah and protection, we also step back into the world where various trials and temptations exist. This supplication is a shield, asking Allah to guard us against harms that are often unseen or subtle, including the spiritual warfare waged by Shaytan and his ilk.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely after fulfilling your prayer in the Masjid, just as you are about to exit the premises. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's ultimate protection, believing that His perfect words are the strongest defense. It's often recommended to recite it three times when leaving one's home, and this principle extends to leaving the Masjid as well, amplifying the seeking of refuge.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua offers comprehensive protection. By seeking refuge in Allah's perfect words, we are invoking His ultimate power against His anger, His punishment, and the evil intentions of His creation, especially the whispers and presence of devils (shayateen). This can serve as a deterrent against sorcery and magic, which are often manifestations of demonic influence, and also protects us from the general ills and mischief encountered in our daily lives as we re-enter the community.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Ibn Khuzaymah (may Allah have mercy on him) in his Sahih, from 'Amr bin Shu'ayb, from his father, from his grandfather, who said: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever says: '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), then nothing will harm him until he reaches the place he is going.'