اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ مُنْكَرَاتِ الأَخْلاَقِ، وَالأَعْمَالِ، وَالأَهْوَاءِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the abominable qualities of character, deeds, and desires.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min munkaratil-akhlaqi wal-a'mali wal-ahwa'i
When to Read
This is a profound supplication that can be recited at any time, but it's particularly beneficial to make it a habit during your daily prayers, after the *tasleem* (the final salutation of the prayer) or even during *sujood* (prostration). It's a powerful way to start or end your day seeking Allah's protection from internal and external corruptions that can lead us astray.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and a heartfelt plea to Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He). Place your hands in supplication, face the Qiblah if possible, and focus on the meaning of the words. Believe that Allah hears your call and has the power to protect you from all forms of evil and misguidance. Repeating it consistently can help embed its protective essence into your daily life.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a comprehensive shield against various forms of deviation. By seeking refuge from 'abominable qualities of character', we ask Allah to save us from arrogance, envy, backbiting, and other negative traits that can ruin our relationships and spiritual standing. Asking protection from 'deeds' covers all forbidden actions and sins, whether minor or major, that might pull us away from Allah's path. The most critical part is seeking refuge from 'desires' (*ahwa'*) – these are the vain or corrupt desires that whisper to our hearts, often masquerading as permissible things, leading us towards what displeases Allah, including Shirk (associating partners with Allah) in its subtle forms. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this dua because he understood the constant struggle we face against our own *nafs* (lower self) and the temptations of this world.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Hurairah: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to seek refuge in Allah from the evil qualities of character, deeds, and desires. He would supplicate: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min munkaratil-akhlaqi wal-a'mali wal-ahwa'i.' (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the abominable qualities of character, deeds, and desires).