No, it is not recommended to sleep with lights on in Islam.
Islamic Teachings on Sleeping with Lights On
Islam encourages practices that ensure safety and tranquility during sleep. Leaving lights on, especially traditional lamps of the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him), posed a fire risk.
The Prophet's Recommendation
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised Muslims to extinguish lamps before sleeping. This instruction is based on an incident where a house fire occurred because a mouse pulled the wick of a burning lamp, causing a fire that destroyed garments and fabrics. This event highlights the practical wisdom behind the Islamic guidance. (19-Jun-2020)
Why Extinguish Lights Before Sleeping?
- Safety: The primary reason for extinguishing lights is to prevent fires. This was especially relevant in the past with oil lamps and candles.
- Tranquility: Darkness promotes better sleep. Sleeping in the dark helps regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm), which can lead to a deeper and more restful sleep.
- Following Prophetic Guidance: Muslims are encouraged to follow the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as a means of seeking safety and blessing.
Modern Adaptations
While the specific risk of oil lamp fires might be less common in modern times, the principle behind this teaching is still relevant:
- Modern Lights: Though modern electric lights are less of a fire hazard, they can still disrupt sleep.
- Light Sensitivity: Prolonged light exposure while sleeping can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone crucial for sleep.
Practical Tips
- Dim Lights: If complete darkness is difficult, using dim or amber-colored lights may be a better alternative.
- Automatic Shut Off: Use timers or smart bulbs to switch off the lights after you fall asleep.
In conclusion, based on the teachings and practices in Islam, it is recommended to extinguish lights before sleeping for reasons of safety and to ensure good sleep.
