Carmichael recorded many rest blessings, all of which seemed to go by a different name according to the person reciting the prayer. There is Beannachadh Beinge, Bench Blessing, Beannachadh Bobhstair, Bolster Blessing, Beannachadh Cluasaig, Pillow Blessing, Beannachadh Cuaiche, Couch Blessing, Coich Cuaiche, Couch Shrining or Altachadh Cadail, Sleep Prayer, for example. It was a common belief that angels would guard people as they slept.¹

Here is one example of a rest prayer, a simple way to finish off the day:

Rest blessing

Bless Thou the dwelling

And each who rests herein this night

Bless Thou my dear ones

In every place wherein they sleep

In the night that is tonight

And every single night

In the day that is today

And every single day.²

References