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, from the evil of my sight, from the evil of my tongue, from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen/reproduction.
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 dua is comprehensive, seeking refuge from various inner evils and the outward manifestations of those evils, including slander and gossip that often stem from misunderstanding. Recite it when you feel vulnerable to such harm, or as a daily protection against the potential for your words, thoughts, or actions to be misinterpreted and used against you or others.
How to Read
Raise your hands slightly, palms facing upwards, and recite this dua with sincerity and conviction. Focus on seeking Allah's protection for your senses, your heart, and your intentions, as these are the sources from which misunderstandings and harmful speech can arise.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge in Allah protects us from the internal sources of harm that can lead to being misunderstood. A controlled tongue (sharr lisani) is crucial for preventing misunderstandings, gossip, and slander. Protecting the heart (sharr qalbi) prevents harboring ill intentions that can color one's perception and communication. This dua is a holistic shield against the negative consequences that can arise from flawed perceptions and misinterpretations.
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, from the evil of my sight, from the evil of my tongue, from the evil of my heart, and from the evil of my semen/reproduction). [Sunan Abi Dawud 1550, Narrated by 'Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him)]