Adhkar Before Sleeping: Sunnah Practices and Supplications in Islam

In Islam, there are several recommended practices and supplications (adhkar) that a person can engage in before going to sleep. These Sunnah practices help protect the individual from harm, invoke Allah's blessings, and promote spiritual well-being. Here are some common adhkar before sleeping:

1. Reciting Surah Al-Mulk: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged reciting Surah Al-Mulk (Chapter 67 of the Quran) before sleeping, as it offers protection from the punishment of the grave.

2. Reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas: These three short chapters (Surahs 112, 113, and 114) are known as the Mu'awwidhatan (the two protective surahs) and are recommended for seeking protection from evil and harmful influences before sleeping.

3. Seeking Allah's Protection: Recite the following supplications for seeking Allah's protection:

• "A'udhu bi kalimatillahi tammati min sharri ma khalaq" (I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created).
• "Bismika Allahumma amutu wa ahya" (In Your name, O Allah, I die and I live).

4. Reciting Ayat Al-Kursi: Reciting Ayat Al-Kursi (Verse 255 of Surah Al-Baqarah) before sleeping is highly recommended for seeking protection and blessings.

5. Remembering Allah: Engage in general remembrance (dhikr) of Allah by reciting phrases such as "SubhanAllah" (Glory be to Allah), "Alhamdulillah" (All praise is due to Allah), and "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).

6. Supplicating for Forgiveness: Seek forgiveness from Allah by reciting the following supplication:

• "Astaghfirullah al-'azim alladhi la ilaha illa huwa al-hayy al-qayyum wa atubu ilayh" (I seek forgiveness from Allah, the Mighty, Whom there is none worthy of worship except Him, the Ever-Living, the Self-Sustaining, and I repent to Him).

7. Reciting the Last Two Verses of Surah Al-Baqarah: Reciting the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah (Verses 285-286) is considered beneficial for seeking Allah's protection and blessings.

These are some of the recommended adhkar and practices before sleeping in Islam. Engaging in these acts not only provides spiritual benefits but also instills a sense of peace, protection, and closeness to Allah before retiring for the night.