الِاسْتِعَاذَةُ
This verse teaches us a simple habit before reading the Quran.
فَإِذَا قَرَأۡتَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانَ فَٱسۡتَعِذۡ بِٱللَّهِ مِنَ ٱلشَّيۡطَٰنِ ٱلرَّجِيمِ
So when you recite the Qur'an, [first] seek refuge in Allah from Satan, the expelled [from His mercy].
Quran, An-Nahl 16:98
In this verse, Allah instructs the Prophet ﷺ to seek His protection before reciting the Quran. This act is called al-istiʿādha. It shields us from distracting thoughts and helps us focus on Allah's words. The next verse clarifies that Satan has no authority over those who believe and rely on their Lord. By saying this phrase, we express our trust in Allah and prepare our hearts to receive His message.
Before opening the Quran today, say: 'Aʿūdhu billāhi min ash-shayṭāni r-rajīm' and take a calm breath.
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