The Sunnahs of Waking Up: A Guide to a Blessed Start of the Day
Waking up in the morning is an essential part of daily life, and in Islam, it is not merely a physical transition from sleep to wakefulness but also a spiritual one. The Sunnahs (traditions) of waking up are practices that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended to make the beginning of the day not only physically refreshing but also spiritually enriching. These Sunnahs serve to start the day in the best possible manner, focusing on gratitude, remembrance of Allah, and personal cleanliness. This article explores these Sunnahs, their benefits, and how Muslims can integrate them into their daily routines to start each day with Barakah (blessings) and peace.
The Importance of Following the Sunnahs of Waking Up
In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of beginning each day with a sense of purpose and devotion. By adhering to the Sunnahs of waking up, Muslims not only follow the teachings of the Prophet but also cultivate a routine that nurtures both their spiritual and physical well-being. These practices are designed to help Muslims maintain a state of mindfulness and gratitude throughout the day, ensuring that every action, from the moment they open their eyes, is in alignment with Islamic values.
1. Beginning with the Name of Allah
One of the first things a Muslim should do upon waking up is to say, “Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah) for the blessing of life. This simple but powerful phrase acknowledges the gift of life and the mercy of Allah, who has granted another day to the person. It is reported in a narration from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that when a person wakes up and says:
“Alhamdulillah alladhi ahyana ba’da ma amatana wa ilayhin-nushur”
(“Praise be to Allah, Who gave us life after He had caused us to die, and to Him is the resurrection.” – [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 6311]).
This statement acknowledges Allah’s mercy in bringing the individual back to life after a night of sleep, which the Prophet likened to a temporary death. By reciting this, the believer reminds themselves of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living each day with gratitude and mindfulness.
2. Using the Right Hand for the First Actions
Islamic etiquette emphasizes the use of the right hand for tasks that are considered to be honorable or of importance. Upon waking up, it is recommended to use the right hand for actions such as reaching for water, opening the door, or even wiping the face. This Sunnah reflects the larger Islamic principle of showing respect to Allah by using the right side of the body for activities that are seen as auspicious or sacred.
In a narration from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it is stated:
“If any one of you eats or drinks, let him use his right hand, for Satan eats and drinks with his left hand.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2020).
This hadith further reinforces the importance of using the right hand for actions after waking up, as it aligns with the principle of distinguishing between the actions of a believer and those of the devil.
3. Reciting the Duas (Supplications) After Waking Up
The morning supplications (duas) are another vital aspect of the Sunnah upon waking. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended reciting specific duas to seek Allah’s protection, guidance, and blessings for the day ahead. Among these duas are:
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Dua for Protection from Evil:
“Bismillah al-ladhi la yadurru ma
a ismihi shay’un fi al-ard wa la fi as-samaa’ wa huwa as-samiu al-‘aleem”
(“In the name of Allah, with Whose name nothing on earth or in the heavens can harm, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.”)
(Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 5088).
This dua serves to protect the believer from all forms of harm and negativity throughout the day. It is a means of seeking Allah’s safeguarding from both visible and invisible dangers.
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Dua for Blessings in the Day:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka khairan hadhihi al-yawm wa khaira ma fihi wa a’udhu bika min sharrihi wa sharri ma fihi”
(“O Allah, I ask You for the goodness of this day and the goodness of what is in it, and I seek refuge in You from its evil and the evil of what is in it.”)
(Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 384).
Reciting this dua in the morning ensures that the person starts their day with a focused intention, seeking Allah’s blessings for the day ahead.
4. Performing Wudu (Ablution)
One of the most important Sunnahs upon waking up is to perform wudu (ablution) before starting any other tasks, including praying. Wudu not only cleanses the body but also prepares the individual spiritually to face the day with purity. According to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it is recommended to perform wudu before the Fajr prayer, as this sets the tone for the rest of the day.
In a narration from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it is stated:
“When one of you wakes up, let him perform wudu, for indeed when he wakes up, he is not in a state of purity.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 296).
Thus, performing wudu not only ensures physical cleanliness but also prepares the Muslim to perform acts of worship throughout the day with a renewed sense of spiritual purity.
5. Praying Fajr (The Dawn Prayer)
The first prayer of the day is Fajr, which is performed at dawn. It is a critical part of a Muslim’s daily routine and holds significant spiritual value. After waking up and performing wudu, the next Sunnah is to engage in the Fajr prayer. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection and connection to Allah, and praying it on time ensures that the Muslim starts the day with devotion and a sense of purpose.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“The two Rak’ahs of Fajr are better than the world and all that it contains.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 725).
Praying Fajr also allows the believer to reflect on the transition from night to day, seeking guidance from Allah for the challenges of the upcoming day.
6. Brushing Teeth (Siwak or Toothbrush)
Using the siwak (a natural tooth stick) or a regular toothbrush is a Sunnah recommended by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) upon waking up. It is considered an act of cleanliness and personal hygiene, both of which are highly emphasized in Islam. The Prophet (PBUH) regularly used the siwak in the morning to ensure his oral hygiene was in perfect condition.
It is narrated that:
“The Siwak purifies the mouth and pleases Allah.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 887).
Using the siwak or a toothbrush is also considered a means of following the Sunnah while maintaining a high standard of personal cleanliness.
7. Drinking Water
After performing wudu and engaging in the morning prayer, it is recommended to drink water to start the day. Water is a source of nourishment and vitality, and Islam places great importance on drinking water, particularly in the morning. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended drinking water in odd numbers—one, three, or five gulps—emphasizing moderation in every action.
It is narrated that:
“The Prophet (PBUH) used to drink water in three sips.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5615).
This simple act of drinking water serves as a reminder of Allah’s provision and blessings, as it nourishes the body and helps prepare the individual for the physical activities of the day.
Conclusion
The Sunnahs of waking up are not just a series of actions to be performed mechanically; they are acts of devotion that help the believer connect with Allah from the very beginning of the day. Through these actions, a Muslim reflects on the blessings of life, seeks Allah’s guidance, and sets the tone for the day ahead. By following these Sunnahs, individuals can transform the mundane act of waking up into a moment of spiritual reflection and renewal, ensuring that their entire day is filled with purpose, mindfulness, and gratitude. Incorporating these practices into daily life brings a sense of peace and Barakah, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and blessed existence.