Tahajjud, the voluntary night prayer, is one of Islam’s most revered acts of worship. Rooted in the Quran and the Prophet’s ﷺ Sunnah, it offers believers a unique opportunity to connect intimately with Allah. This guide explains how to perform Tahajjud, its transformative benefits, and its profound role in spiritual growth.
What Is Tahajjud Prayer?
Tahajjud is a nafl (voluntary) prayer performed after waking up from sleep during the night. Allah praises those who pray at night in the Quran:
“They arise from [their] beds to supplicate their Lord in fear and hope…” (Quran 32:16)
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The best prayer after the obligatory ones is the night prayer.” (Sahih Muslim 1163)
Quranic & Hadith Foundations
Quranic Call to Night Prayer:
“O you wrapped in garments! Stand [in prayer] at night, except a little—half of it or less…” (Quran 73:1–4)
This verse initially obligated Tahajjud, later made voluntary.
Prophet’s ﷺ Practice:
The Prophet ﷺ never missed Tahajjud, even during travels. Aisha (RA) reported:
“He would pray until his feet swelled.” (Sahih Bukhari 4837)
How to Pray Tahajjud: 5 Simple Steps
Intention (Niyyah):
Mentally resolve to pray Tahajjud for Allah’s pleasure.
Timing:
- After Isha, preferably during the last third of the night (e.g., 3:00 AM before Fajr).
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
> “Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven every night and asks: ‘Who is calling upon Me that I may answer?’” (Sahih Bukhari 1145)
Number of Rak’ahs:
- Minimum: 2 rak’ahs.
- Maximum: No limit. The Prophet ﷺ often prayed 8-11 rak’ahs.
Method:
- Pray in pairs of 2 rak’ahs, ending each pair with salam.
- Recite longer Quranic chapters (e.g., Surah Muzzammil, Waqi’ah).
Supplication (Dua):
- Pour your heart out in dua. The Prophet ﷺ taught:
> “The closest a servant is to their Lord is during the last part of the night. If you can pray then, do so.” (Sunan Tirmidhi 3579) - Recommended dua:
“Allahumma laka al-hamd, anta noor al-samawati wal-ard…”
(O Allah, praise is Yours. You are the Light of the heavens and earth…)
Spiritual Benefits of Tahajjud
Divine Proximity:
“Allah draws near to the worshipper during the last third of the night.” (Sahih Muslim 758)
Sins Forgiven:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever prays at night and recites 10 verses will not be recorded among the heedless.” (Sahih Ibn Hibban 2572)
Answered Supplications:
Allah responds to duas made in Tahajjud (Sahih Bukhari 1145).
Elevated Status in Paradise:
“A house built in Jannah for those who pray 12 rak’ahs daily (including Tahajjud).” (Sahih Muslim 728)
Protection from Evil:
Night prayer shields against temptation (Sahih Muslim 1159).
Relief from Anxiety:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Tahajjud is a means of expiation for sins and a barrier against Hellfire.” (Sunan Tirmidhi 4139)
Physical and Mental Wellness:
Night worship refreshes the soul and body.
Practical Tips for Consistency
Sleep Early: Rest after Isha to wake up refreshed.
Make Dua: Ask Allah to grant you the strength to wake up.
Nap During the Day (Qailulah): The Prophet ﷺ encouraged short naps (Sahih Bukhari 1132).
Start Small: Begin with 2 rak’ahs and gradually increase.
Avoid Heavy Meals: Overeating makes waking up harder.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping Witr: Pray Witr (odd-numbered rak’ah) as your final night prayer.
Delaying Fajr: Ensure Tahajjud ends before Fajr time.
Neglecting Sincerity: Tahajjud is for Allah alone—not to show off.
FAQs About Tahajjud
Q: Can I pray Tahajjud without sleeping?
A: Yes, but it’s better to sleep first (the word tahajjud means “to abandon sleep”).
Q: What if I miss Tahajjud?
A: Make it up during the day (called Isha’ al-Layl).
Q: Can women pray Tahajjud during menstruation?
A: No, but they can engage in dhikr and dua.
Q: How many rak’ahs did the Prophet ﷺ pray?
A: Usually 8-11, but he said: “Pray as much as you can.” (Sahih Bukhari 1138)
Conclusion
Tahajjud is a gateway to divine mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual elevation. As the Prophet ﷺ urged:
“Hold fast to night prayer, for it was the practice of the righteous before you.” (Sunan Tirmidhi 3549)
