Bismillâhi Tevekkeltü ‘alellâhi wa lâ havle wa lâ kuvvete illa billah’ Dua
We present information about the meaning, Arabic pronunciation, and correct recitation of the prayer “Bismillâhi tevekkeltü ‘alellâhi wa lâ havle wa lâ kuvvete illa billah,” which we often resort to in our daily lives when leaving home. This dua is a form of spiritual refuge and an expression of our trust in Allah.
Arabic Pronunciation
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللّٰهِ وَلَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللّٰهِ
Turkish Pronunciation
“Bismillâhi tevekkeltü ‘alellâhi wa lâ havle wa lâ kuvvete illa billah.”
Meaning
The meaning of this prayer is: “I go forth in the name of Allah, I trust in Allah. There is no power nor strength except through Allah.” This expression expresses both our turning to Allah and our helplessness and need for Him.
Anes b. Malik -may Allah be pleased with him- narrated: The Messenger of Allah -peace and blessings be upon him- said:
“Whoever says, when leaving his home;
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللّٰهِ وَلَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللّٰهِ
is said, ‘You have been guided to the truth, your needs are met, and you are protected from your enemies.’ Satan also departs from him.” (Abu Dawud, Adab, 103, 112; Tirmidhi, Da’awat, 34)
Bismillâhi Tevekkeltü Alellah
It was narrated from Anes may Allah be pleased with him that the Messenger of Allah peace and blessings be upon him said:
“Whoever says, when leaving his home;
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللّٰهِ وَلَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللّٰهِ
‘I go forth in the name of Allah, I trust in Allah. To be able to protect oneself from sins and find strength for obedience is only through the guidance and help of Allah,’ then he will be said:
‘You have been guided to the truth, your needs are met, and you are protected from your enemies.’ Satan also departs from him.” (Abu Dawud, Adab 103; Tirmidhi, Da’awat 34)
In the narration of Abu Dawud there is this addition:
“Satan says to another: What can you do with this person? He is already protected.”
Explanation of the Dua
This hadith emphasizes the importance of saying “bismillah, tevekkeltü alellah wa lâ havle wa lâ kuvvete illâ billah” when leaving home, renewing trust in Allah, connecting one’s affairs, protection from error, and being successful in obedience to His help. It also gives the news that Satan will lose hope of misleading him and turn away.
Knowing how to have trust means having complete assurance. When a servant understands that he has put his trust in Allah, even Satan will accept that his efforts are futile, clearly demonstrating the power of trust.
Lessons Learned from the Hadith
- Trusting and seeking refuge in Allah is being sheltered in the safest abode.
- It is recommended to say this prayer when leaving home, and it is important to teach it to children as well. (Riyazüs Salihin, Erkam Publications)