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