اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا عَمِلْتُ، وَمِنْ شَرِّ مَا لَمْ أَعْمَلْ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done, and from the evil of what I have not done.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min sharri ma 'amiltu, wa min sharri ma lam a'mal.
When to Read
This is a profound dua for anyone who reflects on their actions and their potential shortcomings. We can recite it regularly, perhaps as part of our morning and evening supplications, or whenever we feel a need to seek Allah's protection from the negative consequences of our deeds – both those we've committed and those we've failed to do when we should have. It's particularly relevant when we feel we've made a mistake, or when we're contemplating a decision where the outcome is uncertain.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincere intention and deep reflection. Understand that 'what I have done' refers to our actual actions, while 'what I have not done' can encompass missed opportunities for good deeds, or sins we might have committed had we not been protected. Raise your hands slightly, as is customary for du'a, and let the words flow from your heart, seeking Allah's immense mercy and protection.
Virtues & Benefits
By reciting this dua, we acknowledge our fallibility as humans and our absolute dependence on Allah's grace. It's a powerful way to seek protection from the direct harm our deeds might cause, as well as the indirect consequences, such as regret, missed blessings, or even divine displeasure. It fosters humility and a constant awareness of our need for Allah's guidance and forgiveness, reminding us that even our good deeds are only accepted through His mercy.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Abu Hurairah: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min sharri ma 'amiltu, wa min sharri ma lam a'mal.' (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done, and from the evil of what I have not done).