It has been narrated by Hazrat Abu Bark (radhiallaho anho) that Rasulullah (sallellaho alaihe wasallam) said: “Ascribing partners to Allah in my Ummah is much more hidden that the pace of an ant crawling upon a black stone.”(Kanzul Ummaal vol.2 pg.816)

Shirk is a very hidden thing. It enters the heart very silently and very few are saved from it. Upon hearing this, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiallaho anho) asked in a frightened manner, “How can one be saved from it?” Rasulullah (sallellaho alaihe wasallam) said: “Should I not show you such a supplication (dua) that if yourecite it, you will be free from minor and major shirk.” Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiallaho anho) begged him to tell him. Rasulullah (sallellaho alaihe wasallam) instructed him to say:

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“O Allah, I seek protection in You from that I ascribe partners to You knowingly and I seek forgiveness from You for those things which I do not know.” (Kanzul Ummaal vol.2 pg.816)

Commentary:

By continuously reciting this Dua, there is guarantee of safety from shirk, and glad tidings of sincerity.