Sleeping According to the Sunnah: Turning Rest into an Act of Worship

Sleep is a blessing from Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala, granted to restore physical strength and bring peace to the soul. Beyond being a basic human need, Islam teaches specific manners of sleeping based on the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. By following these etiquettes, a Muslim can transform nightly rest into a source of blessings, protection, and spiritual reward.

The Meaning of Sleeping Etiquette in Islam

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala explains that sleep is part of human nature and a means of rest decreed by Him. When a Muslim understands and practices the proper manners before, during, and after sleep, the benefits go beyond better sleep quality. It becomes a way to follow the example of the Prophet ﷺ in daily life, even during moments of rest.

Below are the key sleeping etiquettes according to the Sunnah that every Muslim can apply.

Performing Wudu Before Sleep
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged Muslims to perform wudu before going to bed, similar to the wudu done for prayer. Sleeping in a state of purity reflects physical and spiritual cleanliness and is believed to bring protection and blessings throughout the night.
Reciting the Supplication Before Sleeping
It was narrated by Hudhaifah and Abu Dharr that when the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was about to sleep, he would say:
“Bismika Allahumma ahyaa wa amuut.”
(In Your name, O Allah, I live and I die.) (HR. Bukhari)
This supplication calms the heart, seeks Allah’s protection, and reminds us that sleep is part of the life cycle decreed by Allah.
Sleeping on the Right Side
Sleeping on the right side is a Sunnah practiced and taught by the Prophet ﷺ. Along with its spiritual significance, this position is also considered beneficial for health, as it may support better breathing and blood circulation.
Reciting Dhikr and Qur’anic Verses Before Sleep
Reciting dhikr and verses from the Qur’an before sleeping strengthens one’s connection with Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala and serves as spiritual protection during the night. Recommended recitations include:
- Ayat Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah: 255)
- Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas, each recited three times
- Tasbih (Subhanallah), Tahmid (Alhamdulillah), and Takbir (Allahu Akbar)
These recitations help calm the mind, bring peace to the heart, and reinforce faith before falling asleep.
Avoiding Sleeping on the Stomach
Sleeping in a face-down position is discouraged in Islam. This position can restrict breathing and is also considered unhealthy from a medical perspective. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of adopting a proper sleeping posture that benefits the body.
Avoiding Excessive Sleep
Sleeping for excessively long periods without purpose can distance a person from worship and productive activities. The Prophet ﷺ taught the importance of balance between rest and acts of worship. Adequate sleep keeps the body healthy and the mind clear, allowing one to perform daily responsibilities effectively.
Striving to Wake Up for Night Prayer (Tahajud)
Waking up at night to perform tahajud is a highly recommended Sunnah. Quality and disciplined sleep makes it easier to wake up for night worship, whether for tahajud or additional dhikr. The Prophet ﷺ described night prayer as one of the most virtuous acts of worship after the obligatory prayers.

Sleeping According to the Sunnah

Practicing the Sunnah manners of sleep is not merely a routine, but a spiritual approach to drawing closer to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala while maintaining physical and mental well-being. By performing wudu, reciting supplications and dhikr, sleeping in the recommended position, and maintaining balance in rest, a Muslim can turn sleep into an act of worship filled with meaning and blessings.

Sleeping According to the Sunnah: Turning Rest into an Act of Worship

The Meaning of Sleeping Etiquette in Islam

Sleeping According to the Sunnah

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