653 - AN NAJAM (Ayat# 33-47)
The act of seeking refuge with Allah, known as *isti'azah*, is a fundamental practice in Islam, representing a believer’s reliance on divine protection from the whispers of Satan. This practice involves reciting specific phrases, such as 'A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajeem' – ‘I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed Satan’ – before undertaking significant acts of worship, particularly the recitation of the Quran. The repeated invocation emphasizes the vulnerability of the human heart to negative influences and the necessity of seeking sanctuary in the divine. It is believed that through this recitation, believers fortify themselves against evil suggestions and ensure the purity of their intentions. The consistent application of this supplication underscores the importance of spiritual vigilance and the ongoing struggle against inner and outer temptations. This practice is a powerful reminder of Allah's mercy and a testament to the believer's humility.
