Unmodern Aspects of Islam (17): Sleep-Deprived Societies

 

Did you know that over one-third of adults worldwide don’t get enough sleep? We stay up scrolling, binging shows, or hustling through endless tasks—only to wake up exhausted, living in a fog of burnout.

But Islam gave us a rhythm that balances body and soul. The Qur’an reminds us:
“And We made your sleep a means for rest. And We made the night as a covering, and We made the day for livelihood.” (Qur’an 78:9–11)

The Prophet ﷺ taught his companions to pray in the night—but also to rest, to sleep early, and to rise with energy for Fajr. His life was not one of constant exhaustion, but of harmony: worship, work, and rest all in their proper time.

The early Muslims followed this balance. They were productive without being burnt out, spiritual without neglecting their health, and disciplined without losing joy.

What about us today?
What if we switched off the screens at night, prayed a few quiet rak‘ahs, and then slept with intention? Our days would feel lighter, our hearts calmer, and our work more meaningful.

Modern life glorifies sleeplessness.
The Sunnah restores balance—and teaches us that true productivity begins with rest.

In a modern world, the Sunnah is our way back to what truly matters.