اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّا نَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ مُنْكَرَاتِ الأَخْلاَقِ وَالأَعْمَالِ وَالأَهْوَاءِ
O Allah, we seek refuge in You from the detestable manners, deeds, and desires.
Allahumma inna na'udhu bika min munkaratil akhlaqi wal a'mali wal ahwa'i
When to Read
This dua is particularly relevant when you encounter discussions, groups, or situations where misguided innovations (bid'ah) are prevalent. It's a good practice to recite this daily, especially in the morning, to arm yourself against straying from the pure path of the Sunnah. Recite it before engaging in discussions about religious matters or when feeling tempted by novel practices that deviate from established Islamic teachings.
How to Read
Recite this supplication with sincerity and a firm intention to remain steadfast on the Sunnah. Raise your hands as you would for other supplications, facing the Qiblah if possible. Reflect on the meaning of the words and the potential harm that innovations can bring to the faith and community.
Virtues & Benefits
Seeking refuge in Allah from detestable actions and desires is crucial for maintaining the integrity of one's faith. Bid'ah, or innovation in religion, can lead individuals away from the established teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Quran, potentially invalidating good deeds and leading to misguidance. This dua helps fortify the believer against falling into such traps, ensuring their worship and actions are based on authentic sources, thereby preserving the purity of their deen.
Source & Authentication
Narrated 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to supplicate: 'Allahumma inna nas'aluka fi'la khairat, wa tarkal munkarat, wa hubba al-masakin, wa idha aradta fi khalqika fitnatan, fatawaffana ilaika ghaira maftunin. Wa nas'aluka hubbaka, wa hubba man yuhibbuka, wa hubba 'amal-in yuqarribuna ila hubbika.' (O Allah, we ask You to facilitate doing good deeds, abandoning evil deeds, loving the poor, and that when You intend to try Your creation with a trial, You take us to Yourself without us being tried. We ask You for Your love, and the love of those who love You, and the love of deeds which draw us closer to Your love.) And he said: 'It is indeed a trial.' [Another version narrated by Tirmidhi: 'Allahumma inna na'udhu bika min munkaratil akhlaqi wal a'mali wal ahwa'i.' (O Allah, we seek refuge in You from the detestable manners, deeds, and desires.)] - Sunan At-Tirmidhi 3597. The context here implies that seeking refuge from detestable deeds and desires is part of seeking Allah's help to remain steadfast on the straight path, which is the opposite of falling into innovations.