الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي أَحْيَانَا بَعْدَ مَا أَمَاتَنَا وَإِلَيْهِ النُّشُورُ
All praise is for Allah, who brought us back to life after causing us to die, and to Him is the return.
*Al-hamdu lillahil-ladhi ahyaana ba'da ma amaatana wa ilaihin-nushoor*
When to Read
This dua is recited immediately upon waking up from sleep, before doing anything else. It sets the tone for the day, acknowledging Allah's power over life and death and His ultimate sovereignty.
How to Read
Recite this beautiful phrase with sincere gratitude. Focus on the meaning, recognizing that your awakening is a new chance granted by Allah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us this, so reflecting on his example as we speak these words is key. Let the words flow from your heart as you transition from sleep to wakefulness.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a powerful reminder of Allah's blessings. It acknowledges the miracle of life and the ultimate return to our Creator. By starting the day with gratitude for being brought back to life, we open ourselves to recognizing Allah's signs throughout the day, fostering a deeper connection to Him and a greater appreciation for His creation. It cultivates humility and reliance on Allah from the very beginning of our day.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Hudhaifa: Whenever the Prophet (ﷺ) woke up at night he used to say: Allah Akbar (Allah is Greater) and recite: 'La ilaha illa Allah, wa wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa 'ala kulli shai'in qadir. Subhanaka Allahumma, wa bihamdika, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilaika.' (None has the right to be worshipped but Allah, He is the One Who has no partner, His is the dominion and His is the praise, and He is Able to do all things. Glory be to Allah, and all praise is due to Allah. I seek Your forgiveness and repent to You). He would also recite the last ten verses of Surat Al-Imran. Then he would look at the sky and recite the verses: 'Our Lord! Not for naught hast Thou created (all) this. Glory to Thee! Protect us from the torment of the Fire.' (3:190-191). When he narrated the Hadith, he would say: 'Allah the Almighty and Majestic revealed this on the night it was revealed.' [Note: The specific dua for waking up is in a separate narration, Sahih al-Bukhari 6312. The above is the fuller narration related to waking at night, but confirms the practice of reciting specific duas upon waking.]