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Heri Mahbub
Discover the habits of Rasulullah ﷺ before sleeping in Syamail Muhammadiyah. Pray and recite dhikr, read the last 3 surahs in the Koran. A simple but meaningful practice, giving peace of mind, protection and blessings.
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Kordoba Cordoba - In classical Islamic literature, one of the monumental works that describes the personal beauty of the Prophet ﷺ is Syamail Muhammadiyah by Imam At-Tirmidhi. This book not only describes his physical characteristics, but also his daily habits and behavior which can be a guide to life for Muslims.
Sleep isn't just a way to unwind after a day of activity. In Islam, sleep can be considered an act of worship if practiced according to the Sunnah.
Interestingly, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also had a special bedtime ritual . This is recorded in the book "Syamail Muhammadiyah ," a monumental work detailing the Prophet Muhammad's characteristics, habits, and daily life.
While many people today have “night rituals” such as skincare, watching movies, reading books, or listening to music, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had a much more meaningful way: combining prayer, the Qur'an, and trust in Allah.
The book Syamail Muhammadiyah by Imam At-Tirmidhi is an important reference for getting to know the profile, morals and habits of the Prophet ﷺ.
In it, we not only find explanations about his physical appearance, but also daily details: how he ate, dressed, behaved at home, and even the Prophet's habits before sleeping .
This is important because from his small routine, we can learn big meanings: simplicity, self-protection, and complete surrender of the heart to Allah.
Narrated in Syamail Muhammadiyah (p. 165, hadith no. 257, Cordoba Publisher) :
“When the Prophet ﷺ was about to go to sleep every night, he would gather his hands together and blow on them while reciting: Qul Huwallahu Ahad (Al-Ikhlash), Qul a'udhu bi rabbil falaq (Al-Falaq), and Qul a'udhu bi rabbin naas (An-Naas). Then he would wipe his hands over everything he could reach, starting with his head, face, and the front of his body. He did this three times.”
This simple practice is a form of independent ruqyah from the Prophet ﷺ. It is not just a ritual, but a spiritual protection that brings calm and strength.
Implementing the habits of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ before going to bed is not difficult:
With sincere intentions, this simple practice can be a spiritual embrace from Allah ﷻ that calms the heart before falling asleep.
Why did the Prophet ﷺ give an example of reciting these three letters before going to sleep?
1. Surah Al-Ikhlash
affirms the oneness of Allah, the source of peace of mind and the foundation of monotheism.
2. Surah Al-Falaq
Prayer for protection from visible and hidden evil, including magic and envy.
3. Surat An-Naas
Protection from the temptations of Satan who whisper in the hearts of humans.
When recited and rubbed onto the body, these three mantras act as a ward against nightmares, illness, and even demonic disturbances. Furthermore, this ritual promotes a more peaceful sleep, like a loving embrace from Allah SWT before we fall asleep .
This habit of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) seems simple, yet full of wisdom. Today, many people seek ways to calm their minds before bed: meditation, using aromatherapy, or listening to relaxing music.
However, the sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ brings a deeper peace: connecting the soul directly with the Creator.
If practiced, we will feel:
· Sleep more peacefully without restlessness and anxiety.
· The heart is more peaceful , because it always remembers Allah.
· The body feels lighter , as if freed from the burden of the day.
· Spiritual protection , because this prayer becomes a fortress against invisible disturbances.
We may be accustomed to the "modern ritual" before bed. However, we can easily incorporate this sunnah. Imagine, after skincare, reading a book, or chatting with family, we sit for a moment, raise our hands, recite these three short surahs, and then rub our bodies like the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did.
This practice does not take long, but brings sunnah rewards, protection and peace of mind .
In Islam, sleep can be an act of worship if it is intended to maintain good health and strengthen our capacity for worship. By emulating the habits of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we not only sleep with a relaxed body, but also with a pure heart and a calm soul.
As the Prophet ﷺ said:
"Indeed, in your body there are rights that you must fulfill." (HR. Bukhari and Muslim)
Sleep is the body's right, and the sunnah before sleeping is the best way to fulfill it with full blessings.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) set a beautiful example, even in something as small as sleep. Muhammadiyah's Shamail documented the Prophet's habits so we can follow his path.
Let's make this a part of our nightly routine. Indeed, those who emulate the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) will surely experience the sweetness of faith, God's protection, and true peace of mind.
Let's start tonight, we imitate the habits of the Prophet ﷺ according to Syamail Muhammadiyyah. Consider this sunnah as a gentle embrace from Allah SWT—a comforter, a shield for the soul, and a reminder that even in sleep, we are still with Him. Wallahu'alam bishawab
