Anas reported that when God’s messenger entered the privy he used to say, "O God, I seek refuge in Thee from male and female devils.”* *One might be inclined to translate this phrase as "from infidelity and act of disobedience,”but the tradition from Zaid b. Arqam (p. 76) is very explicit, and so the translation above is probably the correct one.PT-2 (12-71.)(Bukhari and Muslim).
Purification: Commentary on Mishkat al-Masabih 337
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our Master Muhammad, his family, and companions.
Textual Analysis
The noble hadith transmitted by the Companion Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) states that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would recite this supplication when entering the privy: "O Allah, I seek refuge in Thee from male and female devils."
This tradition is recorded in the authentic collections of both Imam al-Bukhari and Imam Muslim, indicating its highest level of authenticity (muttafaqun 'alayh). The wording is precise and carries profound spiritual significance.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars of Islam have explained that this supplication serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it acknowledges Allah's protection as essential in all circumstances, even in places of impurity. The privy is considered a location where satanic influences may be stronger due to the removal of clothing and exposure of private parts.
The specification of "male and female devils" (al-khubuthi wa al-khaba'ith) indicates comprehensive seeking of refuge from all types of evil spirits, regardless of their gender. This reflects the completeness of the Prophet's teachings and his concern for the comprehensive protection of the believer.
Imam al-Nawawi, in his commentary on Sahih Muslim, explains that this supplication protects the believer from the harm of jinn who may frequent such places. The scholars emphasize that this practice is recommended (mustahabb) and demonstrates the Prophet's perfect manners in all aspects of life.
Legal Ruling and Practice
The majority of scholars consider this supplication to be a confirmed Sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah). It should be recited silently upon entering any place designated for relieving oneself. The wisdom behind this practice includes: seeking divine protection in vulnerable states, maintaining constant remembrance of Allah, and following the perfect example of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
This teaching demonstrates how Islam sanctifies all moments of a Muslim's life, transforming even the most mundane activities into acts of worship through remembrance and adherence to prophetic guidance.