Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by Arabian Tongue Team
Taraweeh is a special prayer performed during the holy month of Ramadan. It is a Sunnah prayer that holds immense spiritual value and serves as an opportunity for Muslims to increase their devotion to Allah. In this article, we will explore What are the rules of Taraweeh, its significance, and how to perform it correctly.
What is Taraweeh?
The word “Taraweeh” comes from the Arabic root “raaha,” meaning “to rest.” It refers to the long, extra prayers performed at night after Isha during Ramadan. These prayers allow Muslims to engage deeply with the Quran and seek Allah’s blessings.
Tarawih prayer is a recommended act of worship that enhances the spiritual experience of Ramadan. It strengthens the connection between Muslims and the Quran, as it is often recited in full during the month.
The Importance of Taraweeh in Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims around the world, dedicated to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. Among the many acts of worship performed during this blessed month, Taraweeh prayers hold a special place in Islamic tradition. These voluntary night prayers, performed after the obligatory Isha prayer, offer immense spiritual and physical benefits, enhancing the Ramadan experience for believers.
1. A Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH)
Taraweeh prayers are deeply rooted in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He initially prayed them in congregation but later encouraged Muslims to perform them individually or in small groups. The practice was revived and institutionalized by Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), who gathered Muslims to pray in congregation under one imam, ensuring the widespread observance of this beautiful act of worship.
2. Strengthening Connection with Allah
One of the primary benefits of Taraweeh is the opportunity to strengthen one’s connection with Allah. These extended prayers allow Muslims to engage in prolonged recitation of the Quran, deepening their understanding and appreciation of its divine guidance. The night prayers also offer a chance for sincere supplication, bringing believers closer to their Creator.
3. Spiritual and Mental Benefits
Taraweeh provides an atmosphere of tranquility and inner peace. Standing in long units of prayer while listening to the Quran fosters humility, patience, and gratitude. It also helps in reducing stress and anxiety, allowing worshippers to experience spiritual rejuvenation and mental clarity.
4. A Means of Seeking Forgiveness
Ramadan is a month of mercy, and Taraweeh serves as a powerful means of seeking Allah’s forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever stands (in prayer) during Ramadan with faith and hoping for reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim). This hadith highlights the significance of Taraweeh as an opportunity for purification and renewal.
5. Strengthening Community Bonds
Performing Taraweeh in congregation fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood within the Muslim community. Mosques fill with worshippers standing shoulder to shoulder in devotion, creating an uplifting and motivating environment. This collective worship experience strengthens social bonds and encourages believers to support one another in their faith.
6. Completing the Recitation of the Quran
Many mosques aim to complete the full recitation of the Quran over the course of Ramadan through Taraweeh prayers. This practice not only enhances the spiritual significance of the month but also deepens one’s connection with the words of Allah. Listening to the Quran in a focused setting allows believers to reflect on its meanings and apply its teachings to their lives.
The Religious Obligation of Taraweeh
Taraweeh is a special set of voluntary prayers performed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan after the obligatory Isha prayer. While it holds great spiritual significance, there is often discussion regarding whether it is a religious obligation taraweeh prayer sunnah or nafl
Is Taraweeh Mandatory?
Taraweeh is not an obligatory (fard) prayer, meaning that missing it does not result in sin. Instead, it is classified as a sunnah mu’akkadah (highly emphasized Sunnah), a practice that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regularly performed and encouraged his followers to observe.
Evidence from Hadith:
- Narrated by Aisha (RA): The Prophet (PBUH) led the Taraweeh prayer in congregation for a few nights, but then stopped, fearing that it might become obligatory upon his followers. (Bukhari & Muslim)
- Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) later revived the practice of praying Taraweeh in congregation under one Imam, which is followed in most mosques today.
Time for Performing Taraweeh
Taraweeh prayers start immediately after the obligatory ‘Isha prayer during the month of Ramadan. The exact time depends on when ‘Isha prayer is performed in your location. The best time to pray Taraweeh is after ‘Isha prayer and before Fajr, but the most rewarding time depends on your preference and ability. Here are the options:
Right After ‘Isha (Common Practice)
- This is the most common and convenient time.
- Many people pray Taraweeh in the mosque immediately after ‘Isha.
- Suitable if you want to pray in congregation and follow the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
Later in the Night (More Rewarding)
- The last third of the night is considered the most blessed time for voluntary prayers, including Tahajjud and Taraweeh.
- If you can wake up before Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), praying Taraweeh during this time earns greater rewards.
- This follows the practice of the Prophet ﷺ, who prayed night prayers in the later part of the night.
Number of Rak’ahs in Taraweeh
- Some believe in 8 rak’ahs based on the Prophet’s practice.
- Others perform 20 rak’ahs, a tradition established by Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab.
The Prophet (PBUH) prayed 8 rak’ahs, but scholars say it can be more depending on one’s ability.
How to Perform Taraweeh?
Steps to Perform Taraweeh Correctly
- Make an intention (niyyah) for Taraweeh.
- Pray two rak’ahs at a time.
- Recite any portion of the Quran.
- Conclude with Witr prayer.
There is no fixed amount of Quran recitation required, but many aim to complete the entire Quran during the month.
FAQs
Can I pray Taraweeh if I miss Isha prayer?
No, Isha is required before praying Taraweeh.
Do I have to pray all 20 rak’ahs?
No, you can pray as many as you can manage.
What if I get tired during Taraweeh?
You can pray fewer rak’ahs as per your capacity.
Is it necessary to listen to the entire Quran in Taraweeh?
No, but it is a recommended practice.
Can I make up missed Taraweeh prayers?
No, since it is a non-obligatory prayer, there is no need to make it up.
Conclusion
Taraweeh is a beautiful Sunnah that brings immense rewards. It strengthens faith, increases devotion, and allows Muslims to engage with the Quran in a meaningful way.