أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ
I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.
A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq
When to Read
This beautiful and comprehensive dua is particularly poignant as evening descends and darkness envelops the world. It's a perfect supplication to recite before sleeping, or whenever one feels a sense of unease or vulnerability at night. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this to seek protection from all unseen evils and dangers that might manifest under the cover of darkness.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and a heartfelt reliance on Allah. It is recommended to recite it three times in the morning and three times in the evening, as taught by the Prophet ﷺ. Focus on the meaning, understanding that Allah's perfect words are a shield against all creation's potential harm. This act of seeking refuge is a profound expression of Tawakkul (reliance on Allah).
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a powerful means of protection. By seeking refuge in Allah's perfect words, we are asking for His divine safeguard against any physical, spiritual, or psychological harm that might arise from the created world, especially during the vulnerable hours of the night. The Prophet ﷺ himself relied on such supplications, demonstrating their importance in maintaining peace and security through our connection with the Creator.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that a man came to the Prophet ﷺ and said: "O Messenger of Allah, what have you been told about a night I experienced during my journey?" He said: "What was that?" He said: "I was afflicted by a scorpion sting, and suddenly I heard a voice from the corner of the tent calling out: 'May Allah curse the scorpion for what it did!'" The Prophet ﷺ said: "Did you know what it was that was calling out?" He said: "No." The Prophet ﷺ said: "That was Satan. When evening comes, seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created. Say: 'I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.'" (Sahih Muslim 2708).