What is the required wording for seeking refuge (*Ta'awwudh*)?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The description of the *Ta'awwudh* is to say: 'A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajim' (I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan). This is the view of Abu Hanifa and Al-Shafi'i, based on Quran 16:98. It is legislated to recite it silently, and there is no known difference of opinion on maintaining secrecy in its recitation.
Supporting text
Ahmad narrated that one should say: 'A'udhu billahi as-sami' al-'alim minash-shaytanir-rajim' (I seek refuge in Allah, the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing, from the accursed Satan), based on the hadith of Abu Sa'id and Quran 41:36, which includes the attributes of Allah. Furthermore, it is narrated from Ahmad that one may add, 'Inna Allah huwa as-sami' al-'alim.' All these formulations are deemed permissible and suitable.