اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عَذَابِ جَهَنَّمَ وَمِنْ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ وَمِنْ فِتْنَةِ الْمَحْيَا وَالْمَمَاتِ وَمِنْ شَرِّ فِتْنَةِ الْمَسِيحِ الدَّجَّالِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of Hellfire, and from the punishment of the grave, and from the trials of life and death, and from the evil of the trial of the False Messiah (Dajjal).
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'adhabi jahannama wa min 'adhabi-l-qabri wa min fitnati-l-mahya wa-l-mamat wa min sharri fitnati-l-masihid-dajjal.
When to Read
This powerful supplication is particularly potent when recited during the last third of the night. This is the time when Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) descends to the lowest heaven, inviting us to call upon Him and seek His forgiveness. It's a time of deep spiritual connection, perfect for seeking refuge from all forms of evil, both seen and unseen, and especially potent for averting calamities. Making this part of your Tahajjud prayer or personal devotion can offer immense spiritual protection.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a humble heart. During the last third of the night, when you are awake for Tahajjud or even just for a moment of reflection, turn to Allah with conviction. Imagine His vast mercy and power, and firmly believe that He is the only one who can protect you. Raising your hands slightly can be a sign of supplication, but the sincerity of your heart is the most crucial element. Seek refuge in Allah before engaging in any other requests.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates seeking refuge from major sources of torment and trial. By reciting it, especially during the blessed hours of the last third of the night, you are actively seeking Allah's protection from: 1. **Punishment of Hellfire:** A direct appeal for salvation from eternal damnation. 2. **Punishment of the Grave:** Seeking solace from the trials and torments within the grave, a crucial intermediate stage. 3. **Trials of Life and Death:** Protection from the hardships, temptations, and tribulations of this world, as well as the agonies of death itself. 4. **The Evil of the Dajjal:** Seeking refuge from the most immense fitnah (trial) that will confront humanity before the Day of Judgment. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us the importance of seeking refuge from this specific trial.
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to teach them the Tashahhud just as he taught them a Surah of the Qur'an. He would say: 'Say: Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'adhabi Jahannam wa min 'adhabi-l-qabr wa min fitnati-l-mahya wa-l-mamat wa min sharri fitnati-l-masihid-dajjal.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6306)