أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ
I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.
A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq
When to Read
The Prophet ﷺ taught us this powerful dua specifically for when we stop somewhere to rest, especially during travel. Whether you're pulling over on a long road trip, checking into a hotel, setting up camp, or simply pausing for a break in an unfamiliar location, this is the perfect time to recite it. It’s an invocation for protection and peace as you settle into a new spot, seeking Allah's safeguarding from any harm or inappropriate circumstances.
How to Read
Recite this dua thoughtfully, acknowledging Allah's omnipotence and seeking refuge in His perfect words. The perfection of Allah’s words refers to their completeness, truthfulness, and ability to protect. You can say it once or multiple times as you settle down. While the Prophet ﷺ mentioned reciting it 'if anyone lands at a stopping-place,' it’s beneficial to recite it as soon as you choose your resting spot, before you fully unpack or get comfortable. Recite it with sincerity, internalizing the meaning of seeking Allah's protection from all forms of evil.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ assured us of an incredible benefit from this dua: "Nothing will harm him until he departs from that stopping-place." (Sahih Muslim 2708a). This encompasses protection from a myriad of harms, including physical dangers, harmful animals, unseen evils (like jinn), and even human mischief. It offers profound peace of mind, knowing you are under Allah's care, allowing you to rest securely and focus on your journey or purpose. It's a beautiful way to affirm your dependence on Allah for safety and well-being wherever your travels take you, ensuring that your resting place remains safe and blessed.
Source & Authentication
خَوْلَةَ بِنْتَ حَكِيمٍ السُّلَمِيَّةَ تَقُولُ سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَقُولُ: "مَنْ نَزَلَ مَنْزِلًا ثُمَّ قَالَ: أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّاتِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ لَمْ يَضُرَّهُ شَيْءٌ حَتَّى يَرْتَحِلَ مِنْ مَنْزِلِهِ ذَلِكَ" Khawlah bint Hakim As-Sulamiyah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: "If anyone lands at a stopping-place, and then says: 'I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created,' nothing will harm him until he departs from that stopping-place."