Sleep is a daily blessing and a form of lesser death. Islam teaches believers to remember Allah before resting, placing themselves under His care and protection throughout the night.
بِاسْمِكَ اللَّهُمَّ أَمُوتُ وَأَحْيَا
Bismika Allahumma amutu wa ahya.
In Your name, O Allah, I die and I live.
Hadith — Sahih al-Bukhari — Sahih al-Bukhari 6311
Authenticity: Sahih
Meaning and Explanation
The supplication expresses complete reliance upon Allah before sleep, recognizing that our souls are in His hands and that both life and death belong ultimately to Him.
When to Recite
Immediately before going to sleep when lying in bed.
How to Recite
Recite the dua while lying on your right side, placing your right hand under your cheek as was the habit of the Prophet ﷺ.
Important Notes
There are several authentic bedtime adhkar. It is Sunnah to perform wudu (ablution) before sleeping and to recite Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas.
Benefits
It brings peace of mind before sleep, earns divine protection throughout the night, and ensures that a believer concludes their waking day with the remembrance of Allah.
Source
Hadith — Sahih al-Bukhari — Sahih al-Bukhari 6312
Authenticity: Sahih (Authentic)
Narrated Hudhaifa (RA) regarding the Prophet's sleep adhkar.
Content type: Hadith
Tags:
dua before sleeping
dua for sleep
night prayer
sleeping dua
bedtime dua
sunnah
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Performing wudu (ablution), dusting the bed three times, sleeping on your right side, and reciting Ayat al-Kursi along with the bedtime supplications.