As the night falls and exhaustion takes over, many of us long for peace and tranquility before we rest our heads on the pillow. The practice of reciting duas for sleeping is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and carries immense benefits for both the body and soul. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the significance of remembrance of Allah before sleep, offering supplications that bring a sense of serenity and spiritual protection.
One of the most well-known Hadith from Al-Bukhari describes how the Prophet would place his right cheek on his hand and supplicate, saying, “Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya,” meaning, “O Allah, with Your name, I die and I live.” Such simple yet powerful words serve as a pathway to inner peace and a spiritually fulfilling routine.
The Quran and Hadith sources also highlight the importance of supplicating with heartfelt devotion. Scholars of Fiqh and jurisprudence recommend integrating these duas into daily life, as they help promote a sense of security and divine connection. In a recorded narration, it is stated that upon waking, the Prophet would say, “Al-hamdu lillahil-ladhee ahyana ba’da ma amatana, wa ilaihin-nushur,” expressing gratitude for life after sleep, acknowledging the reality of the resurrection.
Through study and understanding, we can explore these timeless teachings further. Platforms like Iqra Network offer a course on Islamic spirituality to help believers delve deeper into this practice. Whether through structured programs or personal reflection, embracing these supplications can transform one’s nighttime into a source of divine blessings and spiritual elevation.
The Power of Ayat-ul-Kursi Before Sleep
“Allahu laaa ilaaha illaa huwal haiyul qai-yoom; laa taakhuzuhoo sinatunw wa laa nawm; lahoo maa fissamaawaati wa maa fil ard; man zallazee yashfa’u indahooo illaa be iznih; ya’lamu maa baina aideehim wa maa khalfahum; wa laa yuheetoona beshai ‘immin ‘ilmihee illa be maa shaaaa; wasi’a kursiyyuhus samaa waati wal arda wa la ya’ooduho hifzuhumaa; wa huwal aliyyul ‘azeem ”
One of the most powerful verses for sleep protection is Ayat-ul-Kursi. It speaks of Allah’s supreme authority over the heavens and the earth, emphasizing His ability to protect and sustain His creatures without experiencing slumber or fatigue. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) highlighted its significance, stating in a Hadith recorded by Bukhari that whoever recites this verse before sleep will be under divine guarding until morning. This act of worship allows believers to strengthen their faith, acknowledging that nothing can happen in the world without Allah’s Permission.
The Throne of Allah, as mentioned in Ayat-ul-Kursi, extends beyond human understanding, reflecting His sovereignty over all creation. It is a reminder of His Supreme knowledge and that no one can intercede except by His will. The self-subsisting, Eternal nature of Allah ensures that He remains in control, never overtaken by seizure or weakness. By reciting this verse, we affirm our reliance on His power, seeking protection from anything unseen. This practice, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, strengthens our connection with our Creator and brings a sense of greatness and peace before we rest.
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The Last Two Verses of Surah Al-Baqarah
Amana alrrasoolu bima onzila ilayhi min rabbihi waalmuminoona kullun amana biAllahi wamalaikatihi wakutubihi warusulihi la nufarriqu bayna ahadin min rusulihi waqaloo samiAAna waataAAna ghufranaka rabbana wailayka almaseeru. La yukallifu Allahu nafsan illa wusAAaha laha ma kasabat waAAalayha ma iktasabat rabbana la tuakhithna in naseena aw akhtana rabbana wala tahmil AAalayna isran kama hamaltahu AAala allatheena min qablina rabbana wala tuhammilna ma la taqata lana bihi waoAAfu AAanna waighfir lana wairhamna anta mawlana faonsurna AAala alqawmi alkafireena
The last two verses of Surah al-Baqarah hold immense significance for believers as they emphasize complete trust in Allah. These verses affirm the faith of the messengers and their followers, who accept all books and guidance revealed by God.
The Qur’an describes how no soul is burdened beyond its capacity, and each person is responsible for what they have gained or earned. In these words, there is a beautiful reminder of forgiveness, mercy, and pardon, calling upon the Lord for protection from any unjust burden or mistakes that may have been forgotten or committed in error.
The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) mentioned in a Hadith that whoever recites these verses at night will find them sufficient for protection. Abu Mas’ud narrated that the Prophet shared this teaching while at the Ka’bah, and it was later graded as authentic by Al-Albani.
This recitation is a powerful act of obedience and an acknowledgment of faith, seeking victory over the disbelieving people and hoping for divine help in reaching the best destination. Whether standing in prayer or lying down to sleep, these verses provide spiritual comfort, shielding the believer under the care of their ultimate protector.
Du’a Before Sleeping
Before going to sleep, one should recite the beautiful supplication
اللَّهُمَّ بِاسْمِكَ أَمُوتُ وَأَحْيَا
This powerful prayer reminds us that our life and death are in the hands of Allah, and we place our trust in Him. The transliteration is “Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya,” and its translation means, “O Allah, in Your name, I live and I die.” This simple yet profound act strengthens faith and brings peace before sleeping.
Du’a for Peaceful Sleep
Khalid ibn al-Walid once told Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that he had nightmares. The Prophet advised him to recite a supplication to seek refuge from evil suggestions and the presence of shayatin. This powerful Hadith is recorded in Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud. It teaches that by calling upon Allah and His perfect words, one can be protected from anger, punishment, and devils that may disturb the night.
The translation of the supplication is: “I seek refuge in the complete words of Allah from His anger and punishment, from the evil of His slaves, and from the madness and appearance of devils.” The transliteration is: Qul audhu bi kalimati’ llahi’t-tammati min ghadabihi wa iqabihi wa sharri ibadihi wa min hamazati’ sh-shayatin wa an yahdurun. The Arabic verse is:
قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَعِقَابِهِ وَشَرِّ عِبَادِهِ وَمِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَأَنْ يَحْضُرُونِ
This supplication shields against death and unseen harm, ensuring a peaceful sleep free from fear.
Dua for Waking Up
Waking up every morning is a blessing, and Islam teaches us to start our day with gratitude. The dua for waking up reminds us that sleep is a temporary form of death, and it is Allah who grants us another chance at life. As soon as we open our eyes, we should recite the beautiful supplication:
“Alhamdulillah alladhee ahyana ba’da ma amatana wa ilayhin-nushoor.”
This transliteration helps us say the words correctly, and the meaning is a powerful reminder that one day, we will wake up in another world after our final resurrection.
This dua not only helps us remember our purpose but also encourages us to express thanks for another day to do good. The words serve as a way of praise and acknowledgment that God alone controls life and death. It is a minor reflection of the great awakening that will happen on the Day of Judgment. Saying this immediately after waking up helps in restoring focus and dedication to the day’s purpose. While some may not consider it a bedtime supplication, it still serves as a powerful habit to build.
Dua for Difficulty Sleeping
If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, unable to rest, you can recite this dua for ease. The Victorious and All-Mighty Allah is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, and calling upon Him brings peace to the heart. This supplication acknowledges His power over everything between the skies and the land, reminding us that only He is worthy of worship and ultimate reliance.
لَا إِلَـهَ إِلَّا اللهُ الْوَاحِدُ الْقَهَّـارُ رَبُّ السَّمَـوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ وَمَا بَيْـنَهُمَا الْعَزِيـزُ الْغَفَّارُ
Transliteration: Lā ilāha illallāhal-Wāḥidul-Qahhār. Rabbus-samāwāti wa ‘l-arḍi wa mā baynahumaal-Azīzul-Ghaffār.
Translation: There is none worthy of worship but Allah, the One, the Victorious, the Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, the All-Mighty, the All-Forgiving.
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Conclusion
A peaceful night begins with a sincere dua, bringing tranquility to the heart and strengthening the connection with faith. Islamic teachings encourage us to incorporate this beautiful practice into our nightly routine, enhancing sleep and overall well-being. As we explore the power of prayer, we also deepen our understanding of its transformative effects on the mind and soul. The pathway to true peace lies in embracing this comprehensive spiritual habit. Let’s embark on this journey together, following the wisdom that offers both comfort and strength until the very end.
Qamar Ul Haq is an Islamic historian and writer with a passion for uncovering the rich heritage of Muslim civilizations. Through in-depth research and storytelling, He brings to life the achievements, struggles, and contributions of the Ummah throughout history.