بِاسْمِكَ رَبِّ وَضَعْتُ جَنْبِي، وَبِكَ أَرْفَعُهُ. إِنْ أَمْسَكْتَ نَفْسِي فَاغْفِرْ لَهَا، وَإِنْ أَرْسَلْتَهَا فَاحْفَظْهَا بِمَا تَحْفَظُ بِهِ عِبَادَكَ الصَّالِحِينَ.
In Your name, my Lord, I lay down my side, and in Your name I raise it. If You should take my soul, then forgive it, and if You should send it back, then protect it with what You protect Your righteous servants.
Bismika Rabbi wada'tu janbi, wa bika arfa'uhu. In amsakta nafsi faghfir laha, wa in arsaltaha fahfadhha bima tahfazu bihi 'ibadakas-salihin.
When to Read
This dua is recited before sleeping, as part of the evening supplications (Adhkar al- المساء). It's a beautiful way to entrust your soul and well-being to Allah SWT as you drift off to sleep, seeking His protection and guidance even in your dreams.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely before lying down to sleep. It is recommended to be in a state of purity (Wudu) if possible, and to face the Qiblah. Utter the words with contemplation, remembering that Allah is the ultimate protector and controller of all things, including our dreams.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua seeks Allah's forgiveness if He takes our soul in sleep, and His protection if He allows us to awaken. By asking for protection 'with what You protect Your righteous servants,' we are implicitly asking for our dreams to be guarded against any negative or distressing influences, and for them to be truthful and beneficial, reflecting the righteous dreams of the Prophets and Saints. It fosters a deep sense of reliance on Allah (Tawakkul) and reinforces the idea that even our sleep is under His dominion.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to supplicate: 'Bismika Rabbi wada'tu janbi, wa bika arfa'uhu. In amsakta nafsi faghfir laha, wa in arsaltaha fahfadhha bima tahfazu bihi 'ibadakas-salihin.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6320). This narration highlights the Prophet's ﷺ meticulous practice of invoking Allah's name and seeking His protection in every aspect of life, including the transition to sleep.