Duas as Shields Against the Evil Eye (Al-‘Ayn)

In various cultures worldwide, the belief in the evil eye, known as Al-‘Ayn, has persisted for centuries. Certain individuals are believed to be able to harm others through envy or admiration unintentionally. The evil eye concept transcends borders and is deeply rooted in numerous traditions and faiths. In Islam, believers have turned to the power of dua (supplication) as a means to seek protection from the evil eye. In this blog, we will explore the significance of duas in shielding against the evil eye and discuss some specific duas for protection from the nazar (evil eye).

Duas as Shields Against the Evil Eye (Al-‘Ayn)

Understanding the Evil Eye

The evil eye is commonly perceived as a negative energy that stems from envy or jealousy. It is believed that when someone possesses intense admiration or envy for another person, their ill intentions can manifest as harm or misfortune upon the recipient. This negative energy is often referred to as nazar. While the evil eye is generally unintentional, its effects can be detrimental. 

The Power of Dua

In Islam, dua is an act of supplication, a means of communication between individuals and Allah. Muslims turn to dua in times of need, seeking protection, guidance, and blessings. The power of dua is rooted in the firm belief that Allah has the ability to grant protection and alleviate hardships. 

Dua for Nazar

To protect oneself from the evil eye, Muslims are encouraged to recite specific duas for nazar. These duas serve as shields against the negative energy associated with the evil eye. Here are a few powerful duas to seek protection from nazar: 

Dua for Protection from Evil Eye

Transliteration: « A’oodhu bi kalimat-illahit-taammati min sharri ma khalaqa. »

Translation: I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created.

This dua emphasizes seeking refuge in Allah’s perfect words, acknowledging that only He has the power to protect against the harm caused by the evil eye.

Dua for Seeking Allah’s Protection

Transliteration: « Bismillahi arqika min kulli shay’in yu’dhika, min sharri kulli nafsin aw ‘ayni hasidin Allah yashfik, bismillahi arqik. »

Translation: In the name of Allah, I recite over you to protect you from every harmful thing, from the evil of every soul or envious eye. May Allah cure you; in the name of Allah, I recite over you.

This dua is a comprehensive supplication seeking protection from all harmful elements, including the evil eye. It recognizes Allah as the ultimate healer and protector.

Ayat al-Kursi

Reciting Ayat al-Kursi, the verse of the Throne (Quran 2:255), is believed to provide immense protection. It is recommended to recite this verse daily, especially before sleep.

In Arabic: 

اللَّهُ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ ۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِننّ الْقَيُّومُ ۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِننّ الْقَيُّومُ ۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِننّ الْقَيُّومُ ۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِننّ الْقَيُّومُ ۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهُ سِننّ الْقَي�ةٌ وَلَا نَوْمٌ ۚ لَّهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ ۗ مَن ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِندَهُ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِهِ ۚ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِِِنَ �هِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ ۖ وَلَا يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِّنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلَّا بِمَا شَاءَ ۚ وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ ۖ وَلَا يَئُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا ۚ وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيمُ. (القرآن الكريم 2:255) 

Translation to English:

« Allah! No deity exists except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass nothing of His knowledge except what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Highest, the Greatest. » (Quran 2:255)

Ayat al-Kursi is one of the most powerful verses in the Quran, emphasizing Allah’s sovereignty and His ability to safeguard His creation. It acts as a shield against evil influences, including the evil eye. 

Preventive Measures

While duas offer powerful protection, taking practical measures to prevent the evil eye is also important. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Express Gratitude:

Show gratitude for the blessings in your life. Expressing appreciation helps deflect negative energy and fosters a positive mindset. We attract more positivity when we acknowledge and appreciate the good in our lives. 

• Maintain Humility: 

Avoid excessive boasting or flaunting material possessions. Humility can serve as a protective shield against the evil eye. By staying humble and grounded, we reduce the likelihood of attracting envy or negative energy from others. 

• Wear Protective Symbols: 

Many individuals wear protective symbols like the evil eye talisman to ward off negative energy. These symbols are believed to have the power to repel the evil eye and protect against its harmful effects. Wearing such symbols can be a physical reminder to remain vigilant and seek protection from Allah.

• Recite Morning and Evening Supplications: 

Muslims are encouraged to recite morning and evening supplications known as « adhkar » to seek Allah’s protection throughout the day. These supplications include verses from the Quran and specific prayers that invoke Allah’s blessings and safeguard against harm.

Conclusion

 The evil eye is a concept that has persisted across cultures and religions, including Islam. Muslims have sought protection from the evil eye through the power of dua; supplications made to Allah. By reciting specific duas for nazar, individuals can shield themselves from the negative effects of envy and the evil eye. Alongside dua, practicing gratitude, maintaining humility, and using protective symbols can enhance the overall protection against the evil eye. Ultimately, the belief in the power of dua provides solace and reassurance to Muslims, as they place their trust in Allah to safeguard them from all harm.