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 desires/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 comprehensive supplication is particularly relevant during Ramadan, especially when fasting. The fast is not just about abstaining from food and drink, but also about purifying oneself. The tongue is a powerful tool, and safeguarding it from backbiting, gossip, lying, and harsh words is crucial for the acceptance of our fast. Reciting this dua anytime, but especially before engaging in potentially harmful speech or when feeling tempted to sin with one's tongue, is beneficial.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction, truly seeking Allah's protection. Understand the meaning of each part: seeking refuge from the evils of hearing (eavesdropping, listening to harmful speech), sight (lustful glances, looking at prohibited things), tongue (lying, backbiting, slander, harsh words), heart (envy, hatred, ill-will), and desires. Focus on the intention to control your speech and actions throughout the day, and particularly during your fast.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a holistic approach to seeking protection from internal and external evils that can plague a person. By specifically asking for refuge concerning the tongue, it highlights the profound impact of our words on our spiritual state and the validity of our worship. A fast observed while refraining from sinful speech is more likely to be accepted by Allah (Exalted is He), as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught: 'Whoever does not give up forged speech and acting upon it, and ignorance, Allah is not in need of him giving up food and drink.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 1903). Safeguarding the tongue during the fast elevates the entire act of worship, turning it into a comprehensive spiritual discipline.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from Al-Hasan that the Prophet ﷺ used to say: '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 desires/semen.)