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 rise. If You seize my soul, then have mercy on it. If You release 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 arsaltaha fahfadh-ha bima tahfadh bihi 'ibadakas-salihin.
When to Read
This beautiful dua is recited by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ before going to sleep, especially when feeling unwell. It's a profound expression of reliance on Allah, seeking His mercy and protection for the soul during the vulnerable state of sleep. If you or a loved one is sick, reciting this before sleep is a powerful way to turn to Allah for healing and safety.
How to Read
Recite this dua with sincerity and conviction before lying down to sleep. Place your hand on the part of your body that is aching, if applicable, and then recite it. It is a reflection of trusting Allah with your life and well-being, acknowledging that sleep is a form of minor death and waking is a new life granted by Him.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua encapsulates a deep understanding of our dependence on Allah. By reciting it, we acknowledge His ultimate power over life and death, His mercy (Rahmah), and His protection (Hifdh). Seeking protection in the way He protects His righteous servants invokes His special care. For the sick, it's a way to seek healing and comfort, trusting in Allah's decree while actively asking for His divine intervention during a time of weakness.
Source & Authentication
Narrated by Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say when he went to bed: 'Bismika Rabbi wada'tu janbi, wa bika arfa'uhu. In amsakta nafsi farhamha, wa in arsaltaha fahfadh-ha bima tahfadh bihi 'ibadakas-salihin.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6320)