Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, reflection, and increased devotion. Among the many spiritual practices observed during this sacred month, Taraweeh prayers hold a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. These voluntary night prayers, performed after Isha Salah, bring immense rewards and offer an opportunity for deep spiritual connection with Allah.

The Meaning and Importance of Taraweeh

Taraweeh, derived from the Arabic word “tarweeha,” meaning “to rest,” refers to the additional night prayers performed during Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged his followers to engage in these prayers, as they bring immense blessings and forgiveness.

According to a hadith narrated by Abu Huraira (RA), the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever prays during the nights of Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, all his past sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who observes optional prayer (Tarawih prayers) throughout Ramadan, out of sincerity of Faith and in the hope of earning reward will have his past sins pardoned.” (Al- Bukhari and Muslim)

How Taraweeh is Performed

Taraweeh is a night prayer performed during Ramadan. It is prayed in sets of 2 until completion at 8, 12 or 20 rakats, and can pardon the past sins of a believer.
Taraweeh prayers consist of multiple rak’ahs (units of prayer), traditionally prayed in sets of two. While there is no fixed number, the most common practice is 20 rak’ahs in congregation at the mosque. However, many also choose to pray 8 rak’ahs followed by Witr. The prayers are typically led by an imam, who recites long passages from the Quran, often completing the entire Quran over the course of the month.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) 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 step-by-step breakdown of how to pray Taraweeh:

1. Pray 4 rakats Fardh of Isha

2. Pray 2 rakats Sunnah of Isha

3. Set intention to start praying Taraweeh/qiyam

4. Pray the first 4 rakats of taraweeh, 2 rakats at a time

5. Take a short break after each interval of 4 rakats

6. Pray another 4 rakats of taraweeh

7. Rest

8. Either end Taraweeh here or pray the remainder until 12 or 20 total rakats are reached

9. End the night with Witr prayer
   

   What is the dua of Taraweeh in Arabic? 

   سُبْحَانَ ذِی الْمُلْکِ وَالْمَلَکُوْتِ ط سُبْحَانَ ذِی الْعِزَّةِ وَالْعَظَمَةِ وَالْهَيْبَةِ وَالْقُدْرَةِ وَالْکِبْرِيَآئِ وَالْجَبَرُوْتِ ط سُبْحَانَ الْمَلِکِ الْحَيِ الَّذِی لَا يَنَامُ وَلَا يَمُوْتُ سُبُّوحٌ قُدُّوْسٌ رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّ الْمَلَائِکَةِ وَالرُّوْحِ ط اَللّٰهُمَّ اَجِرْنَا مِنَ النَّارِ يَا مُجِيْرُ يَا مُجِيْرُ يَا مُجِيْر۔

   Taraweeh dua Transliteration

   “Subhana dhil Mulki wal Malakuti, Subhana dhil izzati wal aDhmati wal haybati wal Qudrati, wal kibriyaa’i wal jabaroot Subhanal Malikil hayyil ladhi, la yunaamu wa layamut, Subbuhun Quddusun Rabbul malaa’ikati war-ruh. Allahumma ajirna minan-naar Ya Mujiru ya Mujiru ya Mujiru.

Spiritual and Physical Benefits of Taraweeh

Beyond its religious significance, Taraweeh offers numerous benefits:

1. Strengthens Connection with Allah: Engaging in extended prayer fosters mindfulness and a deeper spiritual bond with the Creator.
2. Opportunity for Quran Recitation: Listening to the Quran in prayer enhances understanding and appreciation of its message.
3. Forgiveness of Sins: Sincere participation in Taraweeh can lead to the expiation of past sins.
4. Physical Health Benefits: The repetitive movements of standing, bowing, and prostrating improve flexibility and circulation, promoting overall well-being.
5. Community Bonding: Praying Taraweeh in a congregation fosters a sense of unity and belonging among Muslims.

Tips for Performing Taraweeh at Home

While praying in the mosque is ideal, circumstances such as health issues or personal obligations may prevent attendance. Here are some tips to perform Taraweeh at home:

• Set a Dedicated Prayer Space: Choose a quiet and clean area for your prayers.
• Follow a Schedule: Set a consistent time to maintain discipline.
• Recite What You Know: If you cannot recite long surahs, repeat shorter ones with sincerity.
• Pray with Family: Engaging in Taraweeh with family members enhances motivation and strengthens relationships.
  

  How many rakats are in Taraweeh?

  Taraweeh, like other voluntary prayers, is prayed in sets of 2 rakats at a time with the ability to rest after every 4 rakats.

  Some narrations state that a complete Taraweeh is 8 rakats while others say it is 12 or 20. When attending Taraweeh at a masjid, the Imam will usually pray the full 20 rakats as all four schools of thought support these narrations.

  When is Taraweeh performed?

  Taraweeh prayer is observed at night any time after the obligatory Isha prayer but before Witr, as the Witr prayer is the last prayer of the night.

  Can Taraweeh be performed at home?

  Yes, Taraweeh can be performed at home. In fact, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed most of his Taraweeh prayers at home.

  Taraweeh was never a nightly congregational prayer during his (PBUH) lifetime. Worshipping Allah (SWT) alone or with family at home is still greatly rewarding.

  How many rakats are in Taraweeh?
  The number of rak’ahs varies. Some pray 8 rak’ahs, while others pray 20. Both are considered valid, and the choice depends on personal preference and endurance.

  Is Taraweeh compulsory for females?
  Taraweeh is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah (highly recommended but not obligatory) for both men and women. Women can pray at home or in the mosque based on their convenience.

  Why do Shia Muslims not pray Taraweeh?
  Shia Muslims do not perform Taraweeh in congregation because they follow the practice of Imam Ali (RA), who did not encourage it as a separate night prayer but instead emphasized long individual prayers at night.

Conclusion

Taraweeh is a unique and rewarding act of worship that enriches the Ramadan experience. Whether prayed in a mosque or at home, its spiritual benefits are immense. By embracing this beautiful tradition, Muslims can draw closer to Allah, seek forgiveness, and deepen their faith. May this Ramadan bring countless blessings and an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Ameen.