As the blessed month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims around the world eagerly anticipate the opportunity to engage in extra acts of worship and draw closer to Allah. One such act is Taraweeh, a special nightly prayer performed during Ramadan.

In this step by step guide, we'll delve into what Taraweeh is and how it's performed. Whether you're new to Taraweeh prayer or looking to enhance your understanding, we are here to help you navigate this spiritual practice with ease and devotion.

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What is Taraweeh prayer?

Taraweeh is a special nightly prayer performed by Muslims during the month of Ramadan, which is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday, March 10, 2024, and conclude on April 8, 2024, spanning a duration of 30 days, and It is considered a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The word "Taraweeh" is derived from the Arabic root "raha," which means to rest or relax, indicating the breaks taken during the prayer to rest.

Taraweeh prayers are observed after Isha prayer, and typically consist of multiple units of prayer, known as rakats, recited in congregation. It is a time for spiritual reflection, seeking forgiveness, and drawing closer to Allah through the recitation of the Quran and supplication.

During Taraweeh prayers, the Quran is regularly split into portions, with approximately one juz being read each night. Most masjids aim to complete the recitation of the entire Quran by the 27th night, which is believed to be Laylatul Qadr or the Night of Decree, which marks the night when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The Taraweeh prayer holds great significance in Ramadan, providing an opportunity for Muslims to seek spiritual rejuvenation and strengthen their connection with their faith community.

How many Rakats are in Taraweeh?

Taraweeh prayers consist of a series of rakats, or units of prayer, performed in congregation during the nights of Ramadan. The number of rakats (units of prayer) performed during Taraweeh varies, but it typically consists of 8, 12, or 20 rakats.

The tradition of Taraweeh prayer dates back to the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), However, the Prophet did not specify a fixed number, leaving it open to flexibility based on the community's preference and ability. Hence, 20 rakats is the longest for a Taraweeh, and two rakats is the shortest.

Regardless of the number of rakats observed, the essence of Taraweeh lies in devotion, reflection, and seeking closeness to Allah. Muslims use this special time to recite and ponder over the Quran, engage in supplications, and strengthen their spiritual connection.

When is Taraweeh performed?

Taraweeh is performed after the obligatory Isha prayer and before the Witr prayer, which marks the end of the night prayers. It is typically observed in masjid settings and in groups, though it can also be performed individually at home.

The tradition of Taraweeh prayers extends throughout the entire month of Ramadan, with Muslims gathering nightly to engage in this special act of devotion and spiritual reflection.

As we mentioned, the timing for Taraweeh prayers usually begins shortly after the Isha prayer, typically continuing until the early hours of the morning. This extended time frame allows worshippers to complete their prayers at their own pace, fostering a sense of spiritual devotion and community bonding.

Additionally, Taraweeh prayers are often performed before the Suhoor meal or the Fajr prayer, aligning with the pre-dawn hours. This timing enables individuals to partake in both physical nourishment and spiritual enrichment, as the act of standing, bowing, and prostrating during the prayers can provide gentle physical exercise and promote flexibility, enhancing their overall Ramadan experience.

How to pray Taraweeh?

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the importance of offering prayers at night, especially during Ramadan. He said:

“Prayers at night are offered in two followed by two. Then, if you fear dawn will come, pray witr with one."

(Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to perform Taraweeh:

- Begin with Fardh Isha: Start by performing the obligatory 4 rakats of Isha prayer.

- Follow with Sunnah Isha: After the Fardh, offer the 2 rakats of Sunnah prayer associated with Isha.

- Set Your Intention: Make a sincere intention to begin performing Taraweeh or qiyam.

- Start Taraweeh: Begin Taraweeh by praying the first 4 rakats, divided into sets of 2 rakats each.

- Take Short Breaks: Pause briefly after completing each set of 4 rakats to rest and regain energy.

- Continue Taraweeh: Resume your prayers by performing another set of 4 rakats of Taraweeh.

- Rest and Reflect: Take a moment to rest and reflect on the significance of your prayers.

- Conclude or Extend: You have the option to either conclude Taraweeh at this point or continue until you reach a total of 8 or 20 rakats, depending on your preference.

- End with Witr: Complete your night prayers with the Witr prayer, which consists of an odd number of rakats, typically performed as 1 or 3 rakats.

Can Taraweeh be performed at home?

While Taraweeh prayers are traditionally performed in mosque settings and in groups, they can also be performed individually at home. Although praying in congregation offers unique spiritual benefits and community bonding, circumstances such as illness, travel, or limited access to a mosque may necessitate praying Taraweeh at home.

In such cases, individuals can follow the same format as congregational Taraweeh, reciting the prescribed number of rakats and observing the recommended practices. Praying Taraweeh at home provides an opportunity for personal reflection and spiritual connection, allowing individuals to deepen their relationship with Allah and benefit from the blessings of Ramadan in their own space.

Conclusion

Taraweeh prayers hold a special significance during the month of Ramadan, offering Muslims an opportunity to engage in additional acts of worship and draw closer to Allah. Understanding the basics of Taraweeh, including its timing, rakats, and method of prayer, is essential for every practising Muslim.

As we embark on this blessed journey of Ramadan, let us strive to make the most of this sacred time by observing Taraweeh prayers with sincerity, devotion, and gratitude. Whether praying at home or in the mosque, may our hearts be filled with the spirit of Ramadan and our actions guided by faith and righteousness.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I join Taraweeh prayers late if I miss the beginning

Yes, you can join Taraweeh prayers late if you miss the beginning. In congregational prayers, you can enter the prayer anytime and continue from the current rakat. However, it's preferable to catch as many rakats as possible to benefit fully from this special nightly prayer during Ramadan.

Q2: Do Muslims pray Taraweeh every night during Ramadan?

While it's not obligatory, many Muslims choose to pray Taraweeh every night during Ramadan as it's considered a highly rewarding act of worship. The practice varies among individuals and communities, but Taraweeh prayers offer a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and connection with Allah during this blessed month.

Q3: Do Muslims recite the entire Quran during Taraweeh prayers?

While it’s a common practice to complete the recitation of the entire Quran on the 27th night of Ramadan, it's not obligatory. The length of recitation varies, and mosques may focus on shorter portions or selected chapters each night.

Q4: Is Taraweeh compulsory for females?

Taraweeh prayers are not obligatory for females, just like other congregational prayers. While women are encouraged to pray at the mosque or at home, they have the flexibility to perform Taraweeh individually or in congregation based on their circumstances and preferences. The focus is on spiritual devotion and drawing closer to Allah during Ramadan.

Q5: What are the rules for Taraweeh prayer?

Taraweeh prayers follow the general rules of Islamic prayer, including performing ablution (wudu), facing the Qiblah, and observing proper prayer etiquette. It involves reciting Quranic verses and engaging in prostration, bowing, and standing in congregation. The prayer consists of multiple rakats, typically 8, 12, or 20, depending on local customs and traditions.