If you wake up in the middle of the night, Islam encourages you to recite specific supplications and remember Allah.
According to a narration by Ubaadah ibn Saamit (RadhiAllaahu Anhu), the Messenger of Allah (Sallalahu Alayhee Wasallam) said that upon waking up during sleep, one should recite:
- "la ilaaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa huwa a'la kulli shay'in qadeer alhamdulillahi wa subhanallahi"
This translates to:
"There is no god but Allah, alone, without any partners. To Him belongs the dominion, and to Him belongs all praise, and He has power over all things. All praise is due to Allah and Glory be to Allah."
Detailed Breakdown
Here's a more detailed look at the recommended recitation, incorporating the reference:
| Arabic Phrase | Transliteration | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| لَا إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ | la ilaaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu | There is no god but Allah, alone, without any partners. |
| لَهُ ٱلْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ ٱلْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ | lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa huwa a'la kulli shay'in qadeer | To Him belongs the dominion, and to Him belongs all praise, and He has power over all things. |
| اَلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ | alhamdulillahi | All praise is due to Allah. |
| سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ | subhanallahi | Glory be to Allah. |
Why is this recitation important?
- Affirmation of Tawhid (Oneness of Allah): The first part of the supplication emphasizes the core Islamic belief in the oneness of Allah, rejecting any partners or intermediaries.
- Gratitude and Praise: Praising Allah upon waking up acknowledges His blessings and power.
- Seeking Protection: Reciting these words also serves as a form of protection and remembrance of Allah.
- Following the Prophet's Teachings: This practice is directly derived from the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), as highlighted in the reference.
Practical Advice
- Memorization: Try to memorize the supplication in Arabic, but if you're unable to, reciting it in English with intention is acceptable.
- Mindful Recitation: Focus on the meaning of the words you are reciting to benefit fully from the supplication.
- Consistency: Make it a habit to recite this supplication whenever you wake up during the night, not only when you are restless or struggling to go back to sleep.
