Virtue and Timing of Reciting Surah Al-Mulk and As-Sajdah Before Sleep

Timing for Reciting Surah Al-Mulk and Surah As-Sajdah Before Sleeping
✍ Fatwa by: Shaykh ʿAbdul Wakeel Nasir ḥafiẓahullah

✦ Question:​

Are Surah Al-Mulk and Surah As-Sajdah meant to be recited specifically before sleeping, or is it permissible to recite them immediately after Maghrib or ʿIshāʾ?

✦ Answer:​

There are explicit narrations indicating that Surah Al-Mulk and Surah As-Sajdah are to be recited before sleeping. However, scholars have allowed some flexibility in this matter.

✦ Best Practice: Reciting Before Sleep​

✔ It is most virtuous and preferred to recite both surahs a few moments before sleeping.
✔ This practice aligns with the sunnah as reported in authentic narrations.

✦ Permissibility of Other Times​

✔ It is permissible to recite them immediately after ʿIshāʾ, even if it is not right before sleeping.
✔ Including them in the recitation of ʿIshāʾ prayers or in voluntary night prayers (nawāfil) is also valid,
✘ Provided that one does not make this a fixed or ritualistic habit.

❖ Summary​

☑ Best time: Just before going to sleep.
☑ Permissible time: After ʿIshāʾ or during night prayers.
☑ Recommendation: Make it a regular practice to recite these surahs before sleeping for optimal reward and adherence to the sunnah.