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 should take my soul, then have mercy upon it. And if You should return it, 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 arsal-taha, fahfadh-ha bima tahfadh bihi 'ibadakas-salihin.
When to Read
This dua is recited just before you lie down to sleep. It's a comprehensive plea for protection throughout the night, encompassing physical rest, spiritual well-being, and defense against any temptations or harms that might arise in dreams or awakenings.
How to Read
Recite this dua sincerely with the intention of seeking Allah's protection. Place your right hand beneath your cheek or head as you prepare to sleep, and focus on the meaning of the words. Ensure you are in a state of purity if possible, though this dua is general in its recitation before sleep.
Virtues & Benefits
This powerful dua encapsulates a deep reliance on Allah (SWT) for protection during sleep. By acknowledging that our lives and souls are in His hands, we seek His mercy and safeguarding. It’s a proactive step against potential temptations or distress that can manifest during sleep, asking Allah to preserve us as He preserves His righteous servants. This practice helps foster a conscious connection with Allah even in moments of vulnerability like sleep.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to say when he went to bed: 'O Allah, in Your name I die and I live.' And when he woke up, he used to say: 'O Allah, praise be to You, the One Who gave life to the dead and to You is the praise.' Another narration states: 'In Your name, my Lord, I lay down my side, and in Your name I raise it. If You should take my soul, then have mercy upon it. And if You should return it, then protect it with what You protect Your righteous servants.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6320)