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
Recite this powerful dua anytime you stop at a new location during your travels, whether it's checking into a hotel, pulling over at a rest stop, or arriving at a temporary dwelling. It's particularly comforting if you're feeling a sense of unease about your surroundings, experiencing anxiety about the unfamiliar, or have a general fear of the unknown that can sometimes accompany being in a new place. The Prophet ﷺ taught us to say it specifically when taking a rest or stopping somewhere.
How to Read
Recite the words clearly and with full conviction, understanding that you are seeking refuge directly in Allah's perfect words, which encompass His power, attributes, and decree. There is no specific number of times, but reciting it once or thrice upon arrival at your stop is sufficient and recommended as per the Sunnah. Your heart should be present, placing complete trust in Allah for protection from all forms of evil.
Virtues & Benefits
The immense benefit of this dua is immediate and comprehensive protection from *any* harm (shar) from *anything* Allah has created, until you depart from that very spot. This includes protection from mischievous jinn, harmful animals, ill-intentioned people, and even unseen anxieties or spiritual distress. For a traveler, this brings profound peace of mind and reassurance, knowing you are under Divine protection wherever you pause your journey. It cultivates **tawakkul** (reliance on Allah) and serves as a powerful antidote to the fear of the unknown.
Source & Authentication
Khawlah bint Hakim As-Sulamiyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah ﷺ say: 'Whoever stops at a station and then says: "A'udhu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq," nothing will harm him until he departs from that station of his.'