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, and from the evil of my sight, and from the evil of my tongue, and 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 is a comprehensive dua that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to recite daily. It's particularly relevant when you feel a slip of the tongue is imminent, or when you are concerned about the impact of your words. You can incorporate it into your morning remembrance (Adhkar as-Sabah) or anytime you feel the need to protect yourself from the potential harm caused by your senses and inner faculties, especially the tongue.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and earnestness. Focus on the meaning of seeking Allah's protection from the negative potential of each faculty. The tongue, being a small organ, can cause immense damage, so making this specific plea to Allah highlights its importance. Ensure you are in a state of purity if possible, though it is a general supplication that can be made at any time.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua offers comprehensive protection. By seeking refuge from the evil of the tongue, we aim to avoid gossip, slander, backbiting, lying, and harsh speech that can damage relationships, hurt others, and displease Allah. It encompasses seeking protection from the misuse of our hearing (e.g., listening to backbiting), our sight (e.g., looking at impermissible things), our heart (e.g., harboring ill intentions), and our sexual desires (maniyyi - referring to unlawful sexual thoughts or acts). It’s a powerful way to guard ourselves against sins that often stem from these faculties.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abdullah: 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.' (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of my hearing, and from the evil of my sight, and from the evil of my tongue, and from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen.)