The dua commonly recited before sexual intercourse with one's wife is: بِسْمِ الله اللّهُـمَّ جَنِّبْنا الشَّيْـطانَ، وَجَنِّبِ الشَّـيْطانَ ما رَزَقْـتَنا (Bismillāh. Allāhumma jannibnash-Shayṭān, wa jannibish-Shayṭāna mā razaqtanā).
This translates to: "With the Name of Allah. O Allah, keep the Devil away from us, and keep the Devil away from that which You provide for us."
Here's a breakdown for better understanding:
- بِسْمِ الله (Bismillāh): "In the name of Allah" - This invokes Allah's blessing and protection.
- اللّهُـمَّ (Allāhumma): "O Allah" - A direct appeal to God.
- جَنِّبْنا الشَّيْـطانَ (jannibnash-Shayṭān): "Keep the Devil away from us" - Seeks protection from the influence of Satan.
- وَجَنِّبِ الشَّـيْطانَ ما رَزَقْـتَنا (wa jannibish-Shayṭāna mā razaqtanā): "And keep the Devil away from that which You provide for us" - Prays for protection of any offspring Allah may grant them.
Significance of Reciting this Dua:
Reciting this dua before marital relations is considered a sunnah (practice of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) and is believed to:
- Seek Allah's blessings on the marital relationship.
- Protect the couple and any potential offspring from the influence of Satan.
- Promote a pious and righteous family.
Therefore, remembering Allah and seeking His protection before engaging in this intimate act is encouraged in Islam.