Hadith Text & Reference

Ibn 'Abbas reported the Prophet (ﷺ) as saying: "If anyone who means to have intercourse with his wife says 'In the name of Allaah, O Allaah, keep us away from the devil and keep the devil away from what You hast provided us.' It will be ordained that no devil will ever harm the child born to them."

Source: Sunan Abi Dawud 2161 | Book: Marriage (Kitab Al-Nikah)

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes a profound spiritual protection for marital relations and offspring. The supplication serves as a divine shield against satanic influence during the most intimate moment between spouses, ensuring the child's spiritual purity.

Classical scholars emphasize that mentioning Allah's name at this moment sanctifies the act, transforming it from mere physical pleasure into an act of worship. The dual protection sought - from the devil's presence and from his influence upon the provision (child) - demonstrates comprehensive spiritual safeguarding.

Imam Al-Munawi explains that this prayer creates a barrier against satanic whispers that might corrupt the child's nature or destiny. The guarantee of protection extends to the child's faith, character, and ultimate salvation.

Juridical Ruling & Benefits

The majority of scholars consider this supplication highly recommended (mustahabb) though not obligatory. Its recitation embodies the Islamic principle of seeking Allah's blessings in all matters, including intimate relations.

Benefits include: Sanctification of marital relations, protection of offspring from spiritual corruption, prevention of satanic influence on the child's temperament, and fulfillment of the prophetic guidance for comprehensive life sanctification.