What Modern Sleep Science Says About the Sunnah Lifestyle
The Wisdom of the Mashaikh: Sleep as a Means of Strength
The mashaikh of Deoband generally taught that if sleep is needed to fulfill the rights of Allah properly, then sleeping becomes part of worship. Hazrat Maseehullah (rahimahullah) would often stress practicality in sulook and avoiding self-imposed hardships that one cannot sustain.
Moulana Maseehullah Khan (Rahmatullahi alayh)
Source: “Advices of Hazrat Maseehullah Khan Sahib (R.A.)”
“Sleep and eat to your fill; decrease speech and association with people.”
What Modern Sleep Science Says About the Sunnah Lifestyle
“Sleep is not the objective. The objective is strength for the obedience of Allah Ta’ala. Therefore, sleep as much as is needed for obedience, and avoid that sleep which leads to negligence.”
Sleep is one of Allah Ta’ala’s great blessings. It restores the body, sharpens the mind, and renews energy for worship and daily responsibilities. In an age of late nights, excessive screen time, and chronic fatigue, modern sleep research is increasingly confirming many practices that have long been part of the Sunnah.
Allah Ta’ala says:
“And among His signs is your sleep by night and day and your seeking of His bounty.” (Surah Ar-Rum 30:23)
Sleep is not merely a biological necessity. It is a gift from Allah through which the body and mind are rejuvenated, echoing the Deoband teaching that rest is a tool for worship, not a hindrance to it.
The Sunnah of Sleeping Early
It is reported that Rasulullah ﷺ disliked engaging in unnecessary conversation after the ‘Isha prayer and generally retired early at night.
Today, sleep experts consistently advise maintaining an earlier bedtime and obtaining sufficient sleep during the night. Research has linked inadequate sleep with increased risks of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, impaired immunity, and reduced cognitive performance.
Many people sacrifice sleep for entertainment, social media, or work, only to experience fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration the following day. The Sunnah encourages a healthier approach, whereby one rests early and awakens refreshed for Fajr.
The Sunnah of the Midday Nap (Qaylulah)
One of the lesser-known Sunnahs is the practice of qaylulah, a brief rest or nap during the day.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Take a midday nap, for indeed the shayateen do not take a midday nap.”
Today, researchers have found that short naps can:
- Improve concentration
- Enhance memory
- Increase alertness
- Reduce feelings of fatigue
However, experts generally recommend keeping naps brief, as excessively long daytime sleeping may interfere with nighttime rest. A short qaylulah can be particularly beneficial for those who awaken early for Fajr and have demanding schedules, aligning perfectly with the practical advice of Hazrat Maseehullah Khan.
Avoiding What Disturbs Sleep
Many modern habits negatively affect sleep quality:
- Excessive screen use before bed
- Consuming caffeine late in the day
- Irregular sleeping hours
- Heavy meals shortly before bedtime
The Sunnah encourages a calmer and more disciplined evening routine. Completing one’s obligations, engaging in dhikr, reciting the prescribed supplications, and retiring early contribute to healthier sleep habits.
Sleep and Spiritual Well-Being
A well-rested believer is better positioned to fulfil obligations to Allah, family, and society. Fatigue often affects concentration in salah, patience with others, and productivity throughout the day.
Islam does not promote neglecting the body in pursuit of spirituality. Rather, it teaches balance. The body has rights, and proper rest is among those rights.
