‘Ā’isha said that every night when the Prophet went to his bed he joined his hands and breathed into them, reciting into them, ‘Say, He is God, One’; ‘Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of the dawn’; and ‘Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of men.’ Then he would wipe as much of his body as he could with his hands, beginning with his head, his face and the front of his body, doing that three times. (Bukhārī and Muslim)
The Excellence of the Three Quls Before Sleep
This narration from the Mother of the Believers, 'Ā'isha, demonstrates the Prophet's consistent practice of reciting Sūrat al-Ikhlās, Sūrat al-Falaq, and Sūrat al-Nās before retiring to bed. These three sūrahs are collectively known as "al-Mu'awwidhāt" - the chapters of seeking refuge.
Scholarly Commentary on the Practice
The joining of hands and breathing into them signifies the Prophet's seeking of divine protection through both spiritual recitation and physical action, creating a comprehensive shield against all harm.
The wiping of the body represents the extension of this divine protection to one's entire being, from the highest part (the head) downward, symbolizing complete submission to Allah's care throughout the night.
Spiritual Benefits and Protection
Sūrat al-Ikhlās affirms Allah's absolute Oneness, establishing the foundation of faith. Sūrat al-Falaq protects from external evils and envious people, while Sūrat al-Nās safeguards from the whisperings of Satan and evil jinn.
Performing this practice three times demonstrates the importance of repetition in seeking protection and emphasizes the thoroughness required in seeking Allah's guardianship.
Legal Ruling and Contemporary Application
This practice is considered sunnah mu'akkadah (emphasized tradition) according to the majority of scholars. While not obligatory, it is highly recommended for every Muslim to follow this noble example.
The wisdom behind this practice remains relevant today, providing spiritual protection in an age filled with unseen dangers and psychological disturbances.