أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللَّهَ الَّذِي لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ
I seek forgiveness from Allah, besides Whom there is no true god, the Ever-Living, the Self-Subsisting by Whom all subsist, and to Him I turn in repentance.
Astaghfirullah alladhi la ilaha illa huwal-Hayyul-Qayyum wa atubu ilaih.
When to Read
This powerful dua is particularly beneficial when you find your sleep troubled by disturbing thoughts or nightmares that might stem from unintentional sins or shortcomings. Recite it before sleeping, after your regular Isha prayer, or whenever you wake up feeling unsettled by your dreams.
How to Read
Recite this supplication sincerely with the conviction that Allah is the only one who can forgive and help you. Focus on the meanings of 'Al-Hayy' (The Ever-Living) and 'Al-Qayyum' (The Self-Subsisting), recognizing Allah's power over all things, including your state of sleep and dreams. It's best to recite it after performing Wudu (ablution).
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated that whoever says this dua, Allah will forgive him, even if he had fled from the battlefield. (Tirmidhi 3577). While this specific dua is a general repentance, its power in seeking forgiveness can purify the heart and mind. When our minds are clearer and our hearts are lighter through sincere repentance, it can lead to more peaceful and untroubled sleep, free from the anxieties that might manifest as bad dreams.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abdullah bin Masud (may Allah be pleased with him): The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'Whoever says: Astaghfirullah alladhi la ilaha illa huwal-Hayyul-Qayyum wa atubu ilaih (I seek forgiveness from Allah, besides Whom there is no true god, the Ever-Living, the Self-Subsisting by Whom all subsist, and to Him I turn in repentance), his sins will be forgiven, even if he had fled from the battlefield.' (Reported by Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, and he said it is Hasan Gharib, and by Al-Hakim who said it is Sahih according to the condition of Muslim).