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Chapter 19 - Sleep and Health: An Islamic Perspective

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2025

By
Ahmed S. BaHammam
Edited by
Basil H. Aboul-Enein ,
G. Hussein Rassool ,
Nada Benajiba ,
Joshua Bernstein  and
MoezAlIslam E. Faris
Basil H. Aboul-Enein
Affiliation:
University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
G. Hussein Rassool
Affiliation:
Charles Sturt University
Nada Benajiba
Affiliation:
Ibn Tofail University
Joshua Bernstein
Affiliation:
A. T. Still University of Health Sciences
MoezAlIslam E. Faris
Affiliation:
Applied Science Private University
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Summary

Islam counts sleep as one of the signs of the greatness of Allah (God) and urges followers to investigate this important sign. Sleep and sleep manners are notable subjects in Islamic sources. The Qur’an and Hadith discuss different forms of sleep, the importance of sleep, and healthy sleep habits. The types of sleep described in the Qur’an resemble sleep stages recognized in current sleep medicine. The Qur’an stresses the significance of preserving a regular circadian pattern of light and darkness exposure. A mid-day nap (Qailulah) is an established tradition for Muslims, and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advocated naps as helpful. Sleep practice and instructions by the Prophet (PBUH) resemble several sleep hygiene regulations described in modern medicine and behavioral therapy. The Prophet’s (PBUH) practices include sleeping on the right side rather than in the prone position, which is discouraged. We recommend that sleep researchers analyze Islamic literature to understand archaic society’s views, manners, and practices regarding sleep and sleep disorders.

Keywords

HadithIslamQur’andreamscircadian rhythmIslam
Type
Chapter
Information
Contemporary Islamic Perspectives in Public Health , pp. 118 - 123
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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