Tahajjud, the night prayer, is one of the most rewarding and spiritually enriching practices in Islam. It is a voluntary prayer that can be performed at any time during the night, after the obligatory `Isha` prayer and before the `Fajr` prayer.
Praying Tahajjud not only brings immense rewards but also helps strengthen the bond between a believer and Allah SWT. This blog post will guide you on how to pray Tahajjud and explore the virtues of Qiyam al-Layl, the night prayer.
The Significance of Tahajjud
Tahajjud is a special prayer that carries immense blessings. It is highly recommended for those who wish to attain closeness to Allah SWT. While it is not obligatory, it is greatly encouraged, and its rewards are abundant. The Prophet SAW frequently observed this prayer and encouraged his followers to do the same. In fact, it is mentioned in the Quran as a means to attain a place of high standing before Allah SWT:
“And from [part of] the night, pray with it as additional [worship] for you; it is expected that your Lord will resurrect you to a praised station.” (Quran 17:79)
Praying Tahajjud is a manifestation of sincere devotion and love for Allah SWT. It involves sacrificing sleep and comfort to stand in prayer, supplicating to Allah SWT, seeking His forgiveness, and asking for His blessings.
The Virtues of Qiyam al-Layl
Qiyam al-Layl, which includes Tahajjud, holds numerous virtues and rewards. The term Qiyam al-Layl means “standing at night” and refers to spending part of the night in prayer and worship. Here are some of the virtues associated with Qiyam al-Layl:
1. Closeness to Allah SWT: Qiyam al-Layl is a means of attaining nearness to Allah SWT. The Prophet SAW said, “The closest that the Lord is to a servant is during the last part of the night, so if you can be among those who remember Allah SWT at that time, then do so” (Tirmidhi).
2. Forgiveness of Sins: The night prayer is an opportunity for the believer to seek forgiveness from Allah SWT. The Prophet SAW said, “Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes down every night to the nearest heaven when the last third of the night remains, saying: ‘Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?'” (Bukhari and Muslim).
3. Elevated Status: Those who regularly perform Qiyam al-Layl are granted a higher status in the eyes of Allah SWT. It is a sign of true faith and commitment to the teachings of Islam.
4. Light on the Day of Judgment: It is narrated that the night prayer will be a source of light for the believers on the Day of Judgment. The Prophet SAW said, “Give glad tidings to those who walk to the mosques in the darkness of a perfect light on the Day of Judgment” (Tirmidhi).
5. Peace and Tranquility: Engaging in Qiyam al-Layl brings inner peace and tranquility. The quiet of the night provides an ideal setting for deep reflection, sincere supplication, and a profound connection with Allah SWT.
How to Pray Tahajjud
Praying Tahajjud is simple and does not require any elaborate preparations. However, there are a few steps and guidelines to follow to maximize the spiritual benefits of this prayer.
1. Intention (Niyyah)
Before beginning the Tahajjud prayer, make a sincere intention to pray for the sake of Allah SWT alone. The intention should be to seek His pleasure, forgiveness, and closeness.
2. Timing
Tahajjud can be prayed at any time after the obligatory `Isha` prayer until the time for `Fajr` prayer begins. The most virtuous time to perform Tahajjud is during the last third of the night. This is when Allah SWT descends to the lowest heaven, as mentioned in the hadith, and it is a time when supplications are more likely to be accepted.
To calculate the last third of the night, divide the time between Maghrib (sunset) and Fajr (dawn) into three equal parts. The last third is the final part of the night before Fajr.
3. Number of Rakahs
Tahajjud prayer does not have a fixed number of rakahs (units of prayer). You can pray as many rakahs as you wish, with a minimum of two rakahs. The Prophet SAW would often pray 11 rakahs, but this was his personal practice, and it is not obligatory to follow that exact number.
Each set of two rakahs is completed by sitting and saying the Tashahhud (testification of faith) and then ending with Tasleem (saying peace and blessings to the right and left).
4. Recitation in Tahajjud
During Tahajjud, it is recommended to recite verses from the Quran with reflection and understanding. You can choose longer verses, especially those that touch upon the themes of mercy, forgiveness, and the greatness of Allah SWT. The Prophet SAW would often recite Surah Al-Baqarah, Surah Aal-Imran, and Surah An-Nisa during his night prayers.
5. Dua and Supplication
After completing the Tahajjud prayer, take time to make sincere dua. Ask Allah SWT for forgiveness, guidance, and help in all your affairs. The night is a time when Allah SWT is close to His servants, and it is a special time to pour out your heart in front of Him.
6. Concluding with Witr
It is recommended to conclude the night prayers with Witr, an odd-numbered prayer. Witr can be prayed as one rakah, three rakahs, or more. The Prophet SAW said, “Make the last of your prayer at night Witr” (Bukhari and Muslim).
Tips for Consistency in Praying Tahajjud
1. Start Small: If you are new to Tahajjud, start by praying two rakahs consistently. Gradually increase the number as you build the habit.
2. Make a Schedule: Set a regular time for waking up during the night to pray. Consistency is key in making Tahajjud a regular practice.
3. Seek Allah’s Help: Ask Allah SWT to make it easy for you to wake up for Tahajjud and to grant you the strength to perform it regularly.
4. Remember the Virtues: Keep in mind the immense rewards and virtues of Qiyam al-Layl. This will motivate you to continue this blessed practice.
Conclusion
Praying Tahajjud is a profound act of worship that offers immense spiritual rewards. It is a prayer that brings the believer closer to Allah SWT, purifies the soul, and grants peace and tranquility. By incorporating Tahajjud into your daily routine, you can strengthen your connection with Allah SWT and elevate your status in this world and the hereafter. Whether you start with a few rakahs or many, the key is consistency and sincerity in your worship. May Allah SWT grant us the ability to wake up for Tahajjud regularly and accept our prayers. Ameen.