How to Pray Tahajjud: A Step-by-Step Guide to Night Prayer
Tahajjud is one of the most powerful and rewarding prayers a believer can perform. It is a voluntary (Nafl) prayer, offered in the depths of the night when the world is asleep, creating a special moment of connection between you and Allah (SWT).
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) consistently prayed Tahajjud and encouraged his followers to do the same. He (PBUH) said:
"Hold tight to the night prayer, for it was the habit of the righteous before you. It brings you closer to your Lord, expiates sins, prevents wrongdoing, and drives away sickness."
(Tirmidhi)
Praying Tahajjud brings inner peace, strengthens faith, and allows you to pour your heart out to Allah at a time when duas (supplications) are most readily accepted.
What is Tahajjud?
Tahajjud, also known as Qiyam-ul-Layl, is an optional prayer performed after Isha and before Fajr. It is not obligatory, but it carries immense blessings.
Allah (SWT) mentions the importance of Tahajjud in the Qur'an:
Unlike the five daily prayers, Tahajjud requires extra effort and sincerity, as it is performed when most people are sleeping. It is a prayer of the righteous and a sign of deep faith.
When is the Best Time to Pray Tahajjud?
You can pray Tahajjud any time after Isha and before Fajr, but the most rewarding time is during the last third of the night.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
"Our Lord descends every night to the lowest heaven when one-third of the night remains and says: 'Who will call upon Me so that I may answer him? Who will ask Me so that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?'"
(Sahih Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)
To determine the last third of the night, simply divide the time between Isha and Fajr into three parts. The final portion is the most spiritually powerful time for Tahajjud.
How to Pray Tahajjud: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Tahajjud is prayed in sets of two Rak'ahs (units of prayer), and there is no fixed limit—you can pray as many as you like.
Step 1: Prepare for Prayer
- Perform Wudu (ablution) if needed.
- Find a quiet, clean space.
- Make a sincere intention for Tahajjud, seeking closeness to Allah.
Step 2: Begin Your Prayer
- Raise your hands and say "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).
- Place your right hand over your left above your chest.
- Recite Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by another Surah or at least three verses from the Qur'an.
Step 3: Complete One Rak'ah
- Bow (Rukoo'), saying "Allahu Akbar" and place your hands on your knees.
- Say "Subhana Rabbiy-al-Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) three times.
- Rise and say "Sami'Allahu liman hamidah" (Allah hears those who praise Him).
- Prostrate (Sujood) by saying "Allahu Akbar" and place your forehead on the ground.
- Say "Subhaana Rabbiy-al-A'laa" (Glory to my Lord, the Most High) three times.
- Sit briefly, then return to Sujood and repeat.
Step 4: Continue Your Prayer
- Stand up and begin the second Rak'ah, repeating Step 3.
- After completing two Rak'ahs, sit and recite the Tashahhud and Salawat upon the Prophet (PBUH).
Step 5: Complete Your Prayer
- Finish by turning your head right and left, saying "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you).
- Raise your hands and make a heartfelt dua. This is a powerful time to ask Allah for anything you need.
Why is Tahajjud So Special?
Tahajjud is a prayer and a spiritual journey. It brings peace, clarity, and a deeper connection with Allah.
- It strengthens faith: The Prophet (PBUH) said Tahajjud was the habit of the righteous before us.
- It brings peace and healing: It wipes away sins, prevents wrongdoing, and drives away sickness.
- It is the best time for dua: Allah (SWT) is nearest to His servants during the last third of the night.
- It increases your blessings: Even a few Rak'ahs prayed consistently will earn immense rewards.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Even if you begin with just two Rak'ahs, make Tahajjud a habit. The key is consistency, a small step towards seeking Allah's mercy and guidance.
During Ramadan, the blessings of Tahajjud are even greater, making it the perfect time to strengthen your connection with Allah.
Let's make an effort to wake up and pray Tahajjud, even if it's just a few minutes before Fajr.
May Allah (SWT) accept our prayers and bless us with guidance, mercy, and peace. Ameen.
