155 / WORDS OF REMEMBRANCE THAT DRIVE SATAN AWAY

The Quran and Sunnah contain blessed words of remembrance and beneficial supplications that drive Satan away and keep him far from the believing servant. By observing them regularly and faithfully, the believer remains within an impregnable fortress and secure refuge that, by Allah’s permission, protects him from the accursed Satan. Satan can neither reach him nor find any way to harm or mislead him, for Satan has no way against one who consistently remembers Allah and devotes himself to obeying Him. His way is only against those who take him as an ally, and his authority extends only over those who heed his enticements and whispers and obey him. A believer should therefore regularly observe the words of remembrance and supplications prescribed by Islamic law, for they protect Allah’s servant from Satan and shield him from his plots and evil.

Allah Most High says, “And say, ‘My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the incitements of the devils, and I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me.’” 1, and He Most High says, “And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Satan, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.” 2.

Seeking refuge means asking for protection. The expressions “I took refuge with him” and “I sought refuge with him” mean that I turned to him for refuge, sought his protection, and held fast to him. Seeking refuge in Allah from Satan means asking Allah—glorified is He—to grant the servant refuge from Satan, protect him from him, and shield him from his evil. Whoever seeks refuge in Allah will be granted refuge by Him, and whoever holds fast to Him will be guided to a straight path. Thus, seeking refuge in Allah drives Satan away and safeguards the servant.

Muslim narrated in his Sahīh that Abū al-Dardā’—may Allah be pleased with him—said, “The Messenger of Allah—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—stood up,