بِاسْمِكَ رَبِّ وَضَعْتُ جَنْبِي، وَبِكَ أَرْفَعُهُ، إِنْ أَمْسَكْتَ نَفْسِي فَارْحَمْهَا، 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 seize my soul, then have mercy on it, and if You 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 farhamha, wa in arsaltaha fahfadha bima tahfazu bihi 'ibadak as-salihin.
When to Read
This dua is recited when a person lies down to sleep at night. It's a beautiful way to entrust your well-being and your soul to Allah before drifting off, seeking His protection throughout the night.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and presence of heart as you are about to sleep. Imagine yourself placing your trust fully in Allah for both your life and your return. The intention is key: you are acknowledging Allah's sovereignty over your life and seeking His benevolent care.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive supplication encompasses several profound benefits. Firstly, it affirms Tawhid (Oneness of Allah) by acknowledging that all actions, from resting to rising, are done by Allah's grace and power. Secondly, it demonstrates complete reliance on Allah, asking Him to be merciful if He chooses to take one's life during sleep and to protect them if they are to wake. This fosters peace of mind and reduces anxiety about the unknown. It also serves as a reminder of our accountability and the importance of living a righteous life, as we ask to be protected 'with what You protect Your righteous servants.'
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to say when he went to bed: 'Bismika Rabbi wada'tu janbi, wa bika arfa'uhu. In amsakta nafsi farhamha, wa in arsaltaha fahfadha bima tahfazu bihi 'ibadak as-salihin.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6320)