One of the most powerful Sunnahs before sleeping is reciting Ayah al-Kursī. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Before you sleep, recite Ayah al-Kursī from beginning to end. Allah will appoint a guardian angel to protect you throughout the night. No devil will be able to come near you until you wake up.”
This simple yet profound act serves as a shield of divine protection. Ayah al-Kursī (Sūrah Al-Baqarah, 2:255) is a verse that describes the greatness of Allah—His sovereignty, perfect knowledge, and absolute power over all creation.
Why Recite Ayah al-Kursī?
1. Divine Protection – Reciting this verse before sleeping ensures Allah’s protection throughout the night. No harm or evil influence can approach the one who recites it with sincerity.
2. A Guardian Appointed by Allah – An angel is assigned to watch over the believer until they wake up, offering safety and peace.
3. Barrier Against Shaytan – The Prophet ﷺ emphasised that no devil can come near the one who recites Ayah al-Kursī, safeguarding them from nightmares and disturbances.
4. A Reminder of Allah’s Majesty – Reflecting on this verse strengthens faith, reminding us that Allah is the Ever-Living, the All-Sustaining, who never tires or sleeps.
Making It a Daily Habit
Incorporating this Sunnah into your nightly routine is easy yet immensely rewarding. Before lying down, take a moment to recite Ayah al-Kursī with focus and sincerity, seeking Allah’s protection and mercy.
اَللّٰهُ لَآ إِلٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْحَىُّ الْقَيُّوْمُ ، لَا تَأْخُذُهُۥ سِنَةٌ وَّلَا نَوْمٌ ،لَهُۥ مَا فِى السَّمٰـوٰتِ وَمَا فِى الْأَرْضِ ، مَنْ ذَا الَّذِىْ يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُۥ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِهِۦ ، يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيْهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ ، وَلَا يُحِيْطُوْنَ بِشَىْءٍ مِّنْ عِلْمِهِٓ إِلَّا بِمَا شَآءَ ، وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمٰـوٰتِ وَالْأَرْضَ، وَلَا يَئُوْدُهُۥ حِفْظُهُمَا ، وَهُوَ الْعَلِىُّ الْعَظِيْمُ.