Khubth, with the letter ba’ read either without a vowel or with a dammah: according to the narration in which it is read without a vowel, it means evil, while khaba’ith means evil souls. According to the narration in which it is read with a dammah, khubuth is the plural of khabīth (an evil one), referring to the male devils; and khaba’ith is the plural of khabīthah (an evil female), referring to the female devils.

The reading without a vowel is more inclusive; this is why, as al-Khattabi—may Allah have mercy on him—stated, it is the more frequently transmitted reading of the shaykhs. (1)

The benefit of saying “In the name of Allah” is that it serves as a covering.

The benefit of this seeking refuge is to turn to Allah—Exalted is He—for protection from evil and evil souls. This place is foul, and what is foul is the abode of the wicked; it is therefore an abode of devils. Thus, when one wishes to enter the lavatory, it is appropriate for him to say, “I seek refuge in Allah from the male and female devils,” so that he is not afflicted by evil, namely evil itself, nor by evil souls.

In the author’s wording here, “when” means before entering. Thus, if one is out in the open, for example, he should seek refuge when sitting down to relieve himself.

The word khalā’ (lavatory) originally means an empty place, and its appropriateness here is evident, since only one person sits in such a place.

His statement, “saying,” means that one says it with his tongue, except for someone unable to speak, who says it in his heart.

His statement, “I seek refuge in Allah,” means: I seek protection and shelter with Allah—Exalted is He.

Upon leaving it: “Your forgiveness,” ………

His statement, “Upon leaving it: ‘Your forgiveness,’” means that it is sunnah for one to say after