A Supplication for Nighttime Fears and Sleep Anxiety

In Islamic tradition, certain supplications and short Qur’anic verses are recommended to help alleviate nighttime fears—often referred to in cultural contexts as “karabasan” (nightmares or intense night terrors). Below is one such supplication that parents can recite for their children or individuals can recite themselves before sleeping, to foster a sense of calm and protection.

1. Du‘ā’ in Arabic, Transliteration, and Translation

Arabic Text

أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ
مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَعِقَابِهِ
وَمِنْ شَرِّ عِبَادِهِ
وَمِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ
وَأَنْ يَحْضُرُونِ

Transliteration

A‘ūdhu bi-kalimāti Allāh
min ghaḍabihī wa ‘iqābihī
wa min sharri ‘ibādihī
wa min hamazāti’sh-shayāṭīn
wa an yaḥḍurūn.

Approximate English Meaning

“I seek refuge in the words of Allah
from His wrath and His punishment,
from the evil of His servants,
from the whisperings of devils,
and from them being present around me.”

2. How and When to Recite

1. Before Sleep:
   • Recite (or have children recite) this supplication right before going to bed.
   • You can also write it on a small piece of paper and place it near the pillow or under it, as a traditional gesture offering a sense of security.
2. For Children’s Comfort:
   • Parents may recite this du‘ā’ gently over their children, or teach them to say it themselves.
   • Reassure them that by seeking Allah’s protection, they are safe and guarded from harm.
3. Combine with Other Measures:
   • Keep the bedroom environment calm: reduce harsh lighting, loud noises, or unsettling media.
   • Reciting short Qur’anic chapters (e.g., Sūrat al-Falaq, Sūrat al-Nās) or Āyat al-Kursī can further enhance a peaceful atmosphere.

3. Additional Practical Tips

1. Establish a Bedtime Routine:
   • A consistent schedule—warm bath, light reading, or a comforting conversation—can ease anxiety.
   • Allow your child (or yourself) to wind down without screens or frightening content before sleep.
2. Emotional Support:
   • Discuss fears openly with children. Let them know it’s normal to have bad dreams and that you’re there to help.
   • Provide positive affirmations and reminders of divine protection.
3. Persistent Nightmares:
   • If night terrors or severe anxiety continue, one might consider speaking with a qualified professional or counselor.
   • Islam encourages using both spiritual and practical/medical means for well-being.

4. References

1. Ibn Sünnî, ‘Amal al-Yawm wa’l-Laylah
   • A classic text compiling daily and nightly supplications, including various prayers for protection from anxiety and harm.
2. al-Nawawī, al-Adhkār
   • A widely respected compendium of authentic adhkār (remembrances) and du‘ā’s for different times of day and situations.
3. al-Bukhārī, “Book of Medicine” (Kitāb al-Tibb)
   • Contains hadiths related to spiritual remedies, Quranic recitations, and the Prophet’s general guidance on well-being.
4. al-Tirmidhī, “Book of Supplications” (Kitāb al-Da‘awāt)
   • Collects various supplications for fear, illness, and other life situations.
5. Traditional Du‘ā’ Handbooks (e.g., “Hisn al-Ḥasīn”)
   • Provide practical instructions on how to implement protective prayers (ḥirz) and du‘ā’s for nighttime peace.

5. Summary

This short supplication seeks refuge in “the words of Allah” from any form of harm—whether spiritual, mental, or social—especially during vulnerable moments such as bedtime. By reciting it or teaching children to do so, individuals can foster a sense of calm and divine protection. While it offers spiritual comfort, remember that Islam also advocates for maintaining emotional and mental balance, which might include professional advice if unsettling dreams or night terrors persist.

May Allah (God) grant peace, tranquility, and protection to all who recite this supplication and strive for restful sleep.

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