The Importance of Dua Before Sleeping

 Sleep is often described as the “minor death” in Islamic teachings. When we sleep, our souls are temporarily taken by Allah and then returned when we wake up — if He wills. As mentioned in the Qur'an:

"It is Allah who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that die not during their sleep. He keeps those for which He has ordained death and sends the rest for a term appointed..."
(Surah Az-Zumar 39:42)

This verse highlights the vulnerability of the human soul during sleep. Therefore, preparing ourselves spiritually before sleep is highly recommended. It is a time to seek forgiveness, reflect on our deeds, and place our trust in Allah.

Making dua before sleeping strengthens the connection between a servant and their Creator, protects from the whispers of Shaytan, and invites peace and tranquility into our rest.

Duas to Recite Before Sleeping

There are several supplications from the Sunnah that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to recite before sleeping. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. Bismika Allahumma Amootu Wa Ahyaa

Arabic:
بِاسْمِكَ اللَّهُمَّ أَحْيَا وَأَمُوتُ

Transliteration:
Bismika Allahumma amootu wa ahyaa

Translation:
In Your name, O Allah, I live and I die.

This short yet powerful dua shows submission to Allah’s will — acknowledging that life and death are in His hands.

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2. Ayat-ul-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:255)

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever recites Ayat-ul-Kursi before going to bed, Allah will appoint a guardian for him and no devil will come near him until morning.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

Ayat-ul-Kursi is one of the most powerful verses in the Qur'an, offering spiritual protection throughout the night.

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3. Last Two Verses of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285-286)

“Whoever recites the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah at night, they will suffice him.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)

These verses are not only a means of protection but also a reminder of Allah’s mercy, justice, and the accountability of our deeds.

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4. Reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Naas

The Prophet ﷺ would cup his hands, recite these three surahs, blow into his palms, and wipe them over his body three times before sleeping.
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

These short surahs protect from evil, black magic, and harmful jinn or spirits.

Sunnah Practices Before Sleeping

Following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ before sleeping brings barakah (blessings) into our lives. Here are some practices you can adopt:

1. Perform Wudu (Ablution):
   The Prophet ﷺ said:
   “When you go to bed, perform ablution as you do for prayer…”
   (Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)

2. Shake Your Bedding:
   Before lying down, shake your blanket or bedding three times with your hands. This was a practice of the Prophet ﷺ.

3. Lie on Your Right Side:
   The Prophet ﷺ used to lie on his right side with his right hand under his cheek and encouraged others to do the same.

4. Forgive Others:
   Clear your heart from grudges and forgive those who may have wronged you.

5. Make Dhikr (Remembrance):
   Reciting SubhanAllah (33x), Alhamdulillah (33x), and Allahu Akbar (34x) is highly recommended.