Why To Wake Up Before Sunrise?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever prays the Fajr prayer in congregation, it is as if he has prayed the whole night.” (Sahih Bukhari)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The two rak’ahs before the Fajr prayer are better than this world and all it contains.” (Sahih Bukhari)
Allah says in Chapter 32 Verses 16 & 17 of the Quran,
“They abandon their beds, invoking their Lord with hope and fear, and donate from what We have provided for them. No soul can imagine what delights are kept in store for them as a reward for what they used to do.“
Let’s explore the meaning of these two amazing verses of the Quran. They abandon their beds, invoking their Lord with hope and fear, and donate from what We have provided for them.
Meaning, that instead of indulging in worldly pleasures during the night, they dedicate themselves to worshipping their Lord. Unlike those who seek relief from the day’s fatigue through entertainment, music, dancing, drinking, and merry-making, these individuals choose a different path.
After completing their day’s work and duties, they dedicate their nights to remembering and adoring their Lord. They spend their time in worship, trembling with fear of Him and placing all their hopes in Him. The phrase “They abandon their beds” signifies that, while they do get some sleep, a significant part of their night is devoted to worshipping Allah.
The second part of this verse is, and they donate from what We have provided for them. In the original context, rizq refers to lawful provisions. Allah never refers to unlawful provisions as rizq. Thus, the verse means: They spend and donate from whatever amount of pure, lawful provisions We have granted them, whether it is little or much; they neither overspend nor resort to acquiring unlawful wealth to cover their expenses.
The second verse talks about the rewards for such people. The verse says, “No soul can imagine what delights are kept in store for them as a reward for what they used to do.” This verse highlights the profound and incomparable rewards that Allah has reserved for His righteous servants. It speaks to the unseen and unimaginable delights awaiting those who have lived a life of piety and obedience to Allah.
The phrase “comfort for eyes” symbolizes the ultimate satisfaction and joy that no earthly experience can match. The rewards are described as beyond human comprehension, emphasizing the limitations of worldly pleasures compared to the divine blessings in the hereafter. The verse serves as a powerful reminder to believers that their efforts in worship, good deeds, and adherence to Islamic principles will be rewarded with eternal bliss.
It encourages Muslims to strive for excellence in their faith and actions, knowing that the rewards from Allah are far beyond anything they can imagine. This verse also instills hope and motivation, especially for those who may face challenges or sacrifices in their religious practices, assuring them that their efforts are not in vain and that Allah’s rewards are beyond any worldly measure.
Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and Imam Ahmad have in different ways cited on the authority of Abu Hurairah that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah says: ‘I have prepared for My righteous servants what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has conceived.'”
This hadith, narrated by Abu Huraira, emphasizes the unique and unparalleled nature of the rewards Allah has prepared for His righteous servants. It underscores that the blessings and pleasures awaiting the believers in the afterlife are beyond human experience and imagination.
The use of phrases like “no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has conceived” highlights the extraordinary nature of these rewards, which are unlike anything known in this world. This hadith serves as an encouragement for believers to engage in acts of worship and righteousness, including prayer, charity, and good conduct, with the assurance that Allah’s rewards are not limited by worldly standards.
It also serves as a reminder that true success and fulfillment lie in the afterlife, where the faithful will experience joy and contentment beyond their wildest dreams. This hadith motivates Muslims to persevere in their faith, endure hardships, and maintain hope, knowing that Allah’s promises are true and His rewards are boundless.
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Divine Wisdom
One of the fundamental differences between Muslims who live their lives according to the teachings of the Qur’an and those who reject Allah lies in the wisdom that Allah bestows upon those who use their conscience and stand in awe of His glory.
This divine wisdom enables believers to perceive the deeper meaning behind events that others might see as random or insignificant. Due to this wisdom, believers can immediately understand the purpose behind occurrences that godless individuals and those who fail to grasp the truth regard as meaningless happenstance.
From the moment a believer wakes up in the morning, they understand that every experience they encounter throughout the day contains a “sign” from Allah. The term “sign” in the Qur’an refers to clear proofs of Allah’s existence, unity, and attributes, and is also used to describe verses of the Qur’an. Another concept with a similar meaning is “the facts that lead to faith,” which are defined as those facts that bring a person to faith, helping it grow, develop, and become strong.
However, only those who sincerely turn to Allah can recognize these “signs” and facts that lead to faith. The 190th verse of Surah Al ‘Imran states:
“In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day, there are signs for people with intelligence.”
For those who have faith and live by the teachings of the Qur’an, every new day is full of proofs of Allah’s existence and facts that lead to faith. For instance, waking up and starting the day is one of Allah’s blessings to humanity and a fact leading to faith that should be pondered upon.
During sleep, a person is unconscious and only recalls indistinct dreams lasting a few seconds. This period of sleep, where the body and spirit are separate, is a kind of death. The Qur’an reveals that human selves are taken during sleep and returned upon waking.
Allah states in the Qur’an: “Allah takes back people’s selves when their death arrives and those who have not yet died while they are asleep. He keeps hold of those whose death has been decreed and sends the others back for a specified term…” (Surat az-Zumar: 42) and “It is He Who takes you back to Himself at night, while knowing the things you perpetrate by day, and then wakes you up again, so that a specified term may be fulfilled.” (Surat al-An’am: 60).
These verses highlight that during sleep, human selves are taken but returned until the predetermined time of death. The transition from the “death” of sleep to waking up with the same abilities as before is a miracle that merits deep reflection. A believer who starts a new day considers these facts and thanks Allah for His immense mercy and protection.
Dua After Waking Up:
They view the new day as an opportunity given by Allah to seek His pleasure and earn Paradise. From the moment they open their eyes, they direct their thoughts to Allah and begin the day with a sincere prayer, the dawn prayer of Islam.
Throughout the day, they act with the awareness that Allah is always watching, striving to win His approval by following His commands and advice.
This close relationship with Allah, established through the dawn prayer, helps them remain mindful of Allah’s pleasure and maintain their obedience throughout the day.
Those Who Struggle To Wake Up In The Morning But Fail?
On the other hand, those who turn away from faith fail to appreciate these blessings and often find it difficult to get out of bed in the morning, facing the new day with anxiety and stress. They may feel anxious and depressed about their daily responsibilities, struggling between the desire to stay in bed and the need to start the day.
This often results in irritability and gloominess upon waking. Such individuals cannot fully enjoy Allah’s blessings or experience the joy that believers feel. From the moment they wake up, their day is filled with the monotony of daily routines, devoid of the spiritual awareness that gives meaning and purpose to life.
Some people, unaware that each new day could be their last, focus on materialistic pursuits such as making money, showing off possessions or appearance, and seeking social approval. These individuals fail to recognize their responsibility to serve Allah and win His approval.
They do not consider that each new day is a gift from Allah and an opportunity to fulfill their duty towards Him.
Allah describes their heedlessness in Surah Al-Ambiya’ (21:1): “Mankind’s reckoning has drawn very close to them, yet they heedlessly turn away.”
It is clear that those who live in such a state of heedlessness are making a significant mistake. Every morning may be the beginning of the last day of one’s earthly life, as death can come unexpectedly due to numerous possible causes like accidents or sudden illnesses.
Therefore, it is crucial to spend each day striving to win Allah’s approval. Recognizing this truth helps believers live with a sense of purpose, gratitude, and connection to Allah, making the most of each day granted to them.
Someone who sincerely directs his thoughts to Allah will be helped to see that he must think carefully about the blessings he has been given and that no one other than Allah has the power to give them to him. In the Qur’an, our Lord says that people must ponder this matter:
“Say: ‘What do you think? If Allah took away your hearing and your sight and sealed up your hearts, what god is there, other than Allah, who could give them back to you?'” (Surat al-An’am: 46)
Certainly, it is the Almighty and All-Knowing Allah who makes sleep a time of rest for human beings and restores His blessings to them in the morning. Those who know this feel Allah’s proximity from the moment they begin their day and are pleased with the incomparable blessings they enjoy.
How To Wake Up in the Morning?
Waking up early, particularly for the Fajr prayer, is a cherished practice in Islam and has numerous benefits for both spiritual and personal well-being. The early morning hours are a time of tranquility and reflection, offering a perfect opportunity to start the day with mindfulness and purpose. Here, we explore 11 effective strategies, blending Islamic teachings with psychological insights and scientific methods, to help you wake up in the morning without fail.
11 Effective Strategies to Wake Up in the Morning: An Islamic and Scientific Approach
1. Set Intentions Before Sleep (Niyyah)
In Islam, setting a clear intention before any action is crucial. Before sleeping, make a firm intention (niyyah) to wake up for Fajr prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of intentions in determining the value of actions: “Actions are judged by intentions.” (Sahih Bukhari). This mindset helps align your thoughts and actions towards the goal of waking up early.
2. Recite Bedtime Duas
Reciting specific supplications (duas) before sleeping can provide a sense of peace and protection. One such dua is: “Bismika Allahumma amutu wa ahya” (In Your name, O Allah, I live and die) (Sahih Bukhari). This practice not only invokes Allah’s protection but also prepares the mind for a peaceful sleep, making it easier to wake up refreshed.
3. Consistent Sleep Schedule
A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. Going to bed and waking up at the same time daily enhances the quality of sleep and makes waking up early more manageable.
4. Avoid Heavy Meals and Caffeine Before Bed
Eating heavy meals or consuming caffeine late in the evening can disrupt sleep patterns. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised moderation in all aspects of life, including eating habits. Scientifically, it’s proven that heavy or spicy meals can cause discomfort and indigestion, making it harder to fall asleep.
5. Place the Alarm Clock Away from the Bed
Setting an alarm clock and placing it across the room forces you to get out of bed to turn it off. Choose an alarm with a gentle, soothing sound to avoid waking up with a start. This simple trick can significantly reduce the temptation to hit the snooze button.
6. Establish a Calming Pre-Bedtime Routine
Creating a relaxing routine before bed, such as reading, meditating, or reciting the Quran, helps signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. The Quranic verse “Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for concurrence [of heart and tongue] and more suitable for words” (Quran 73:6) highlights the tranquility of the night, making it an ideal time for reflection and spiritual practices.
7. Recite Ayat al-Kursi and the Last Two Verses of Surah Al-Baqarah
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended reciting Ayat al-Kursi and the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah before sleeping for protection and blessings (Sahih Bukhari). These verses offer a spiritual shield and promote a peaceful sleep, facilitating easier awakening.
8. Visualize the Rewards of Waking Up Early
Visualizing the spiritual and personal benefits of waking up early can be a powerful motivator. Early mornings are quiet and peaceful, providing an ideal time for prayer, reflection, and planning the day ahead.
Remembering the words of the Prophet, “The two rak’ahs of Fajr are better than the world and all it contains” (Sahih Muslim), can inspire one to seize the morning hours.
9. Create a Morning Routine You Look Forward To
Having a positive and enjoyable morning routine can motivate you to wake up early. This routine could include a mix of physical exercise, spiritual practices like Quran recitation, or engaging in a hobby. The key is to make mornings something to look forward to.
10. Make Dua for Help in Waking Up
Never underestimate the power of dua (supplication). Ask Allah for assistance in waking up early and performing the Fajr prayer. A sincere dua, such as “O Allah, make the first part of my day good, the middle part successful, and the last part successful” (Tirmidhi), can be very effective.
11. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Exposure to blue light from screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. The Quran encourages moderation and avoiding excess, which can be applied to screen time as well. Try to avoid screens at least an hour before bed to improve sleep quality.
What To Do After Waking Up In The Morning?
1. Recite the Dua Upon Waking
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught the dua: “Alhamdulillahil-ladhi ahyana ba’da ma amatana wa ilaihin-nushoor,” meaning “Praise be to Allah, Who gave us life after He caused us to die, and unto Him is the resurrection.” This dua acknowledges the temporary nature of sleep, likened to a minor death, and the certainty of resurrection. It sets a tone of gratitude and mindfulness at the start of the day. The Quran reminds us of the mercy in our daily awakening: “It is Allah Who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that die not during their sleep. He keeps those (souls) for which He has ordained death and sends the rest for a term appointed. Verily, in this are signs for people who think deeply” (Quran 39:42).
2. Performing Wudu (Ablution)
Wudu is a purification ritual essential for a Muslim’s prayer. The Quran states: “O you who have believed, when you rise to [perform] prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to the ankles” (Quran 5:6). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that cleanliness is half of faith and that performing wudu purifies a person spiritually and physically, preparing them for Salah (prayer) and setting a pure and focused start to the day.
3. Performing the Fajr Prayer
Fajr, the dawn prayer, consists of two obligatory units (raka’ahs) and is highly emphasized in Islam. The Quran highlights: “Establish prayer at the decline of the sun until the darkness of the night and [also] the Qur’an at dawn. Indeed, the recitation of the Qur’an at dawn is ever witnessed” (Quran 17:78). Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The two raka’ahs of Fajr are better than this world and all it contains” (Muslim). This prayer and its preceding Sunnah units are a powerful means of seeking guidance and blessings from Allah, setting a spiritual foundation for the day.
4. Value the Sunnah of Fajr Prayer
Performing the two rak’ahs of Sunnah before the Fajr prayer is highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Do not miss two rak’ahs before Fajr prayer even if horses run you down” (Abu Dawood). This emphasizes the immense value of this practice and its role in starting the day with spiritual focus.
5. Reciting Morning Adhkar (Remembrances)
Morning adhkar are specific supplications and remembrances recited after Fajr. The Quran encourages remembrance of Allah: “O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance” (Quran 33:41). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised reciting phrases like “SubhanAllah” (Glory be to Allah), “Alhamdulillah” (Praise be to Allah), and “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest). These adhkar serve to praise Allah, seek His protection, and express gratitude, keeping the believer’s heart connected to the divine throughout the day.
6. Reading or Listening to the Quran
Starting the day with the Quran brings spiritual nourishment and guidance. The Quran instructs: “And recite the Qur’an with measured recitation” (Quran 73:4). This practice allows for quiet reflection and a deeper connection with Allah’s words. Understanding and contemplating the Quranic messages help align a Muslim’s actions and intentions with divine guidance, as the Quran is a source of wisdom and moral compass for daily life.
7. Making Dua (Supplication) for the Day
The morning is a time to seek Allah’s help and guidance through dua. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The supplication of every one of you will be granted if he does not get impatient and say, ‘I supplicated but my supplication was not accepted'” (Bukhari). Muslims are encouraged to ask for protection, guidance, and blessings for themselves and others, fostering a sense of reliance on Allah in all aspects of life. Making dua in the morning helps set a positive intention for the day ahead.
8. Engaging in a Gratitude Practice
Expressing gratitude is a central theme in Islam. The Quran states: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe” (Quran 14:7). Upon waking, a Muslim is encouraged to reflect on the blessings of life, health, and opportunities. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever wakes up in the morning, while feeling safe in his family, healthy in his body, and having enough food for the day, it is as if the entire world has been gathered for him” (Tirmidhi). This practice fosters a positive mindset, acknowledging Allah’s continuous blessings.
9. Reviewing Daily Intentions and Plans
Setting clear intentions (niyyah) for the day is a recommended practice. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of intentions: “Actions are judged by intentions” (Bukhari). Reviewing one’s plans ensures they align with Islamic values and helps maintain focus and purpose. This involves planning acts of worship, work, and interactions, aiming to fulfill duties to Allah and to fellow human beings, thus seeking to live a purposeful and ethical life.
10. Performing Physical Activity or Exercise
Maintaining physical health is an important aspect of Islamic teachings. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “A strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than a weak believer, while there is good in both” (Muslim). Starting the day with light exercise or stretching can energize the body, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. This practice supports not only physical health but also mental clarity and productivity, allowing a person to fulfill their religious and worldly duties more effectively.
11. Engaging in Beneficial Knowledge and Reflection
The morning is an ideal time for acquiring knowledge and reflection. The Quran encourages seeking knowledge: “Say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge'” (Quran 20:114). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim” (Ibn Majah). Engaging in learning enhances understanding of faith and promotes spiritual growth. Reflecting on one’s actions and striving to improve oneself helps maintain a focus on self-development and righteousness, ensuring that one lives a life in accordance with Islamic teachings.
12. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Drink a glass of water upon waking to rehydrate your body and kickstart your metabolism. A balanced, nutritious breakfast provides the energy needed to start the day effectively. Islam emphasizes the importance of caring for one’s body, which is considered a trust from Allah.
Conclusion
Waking up before sunrise holds immense spiritual and practical significance in Islam. The practice not only aligns with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah but also offers a host of benefits that extend beyond the spiritual realm. As emphasized in Islamic teachings, rising early for Fajr prayer allows believers to start their day with a renewed sense of purpose and connection to Allah.
The rewards promised for such devotion are beyond human comprehension, as highlighted in both Quranic verses and hadith, which speak of blessings and joys that no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no heart has conceived.
The pre-dawn hours are a time of peace and quietude, offering an ideal opportunity for reflection, supplication, and reading the Quran. These moments are precious for seeking Allah’s forgiveness, guidance, and mercy.
The early morning light and the calm atmosphere provide an environment conducive to deep spiritual experiences and a clear, focused mindset for the day ahead. By prioritizing waking up before sunrise, believers not only fulfill a significant religious duty but also set a positive tone for the rest of the day, characterized by productivity, mindfulness, and gratitude.
