How to Pray Tahajjud Prayer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

What is Tahajjud Prayer? Tahajjud prayer, also referred to as the "night prayer," is a voluntary (nafl) prayer offered by Muslims during the nighttime hours, typically after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer. While not obligatory, it holds a significant place in Islamic practice due to its profound spiritual benefits and the rewards it promises. This prayer is often associated with seeking mental tranquility, emotional strength, and closeness to Allah.

Tahajjud is not merely a physical act of worship; it is a deeply spiritual practice aimed at purifying the soul and seeking forgiveness for past sins. Muslims who regularly offer Tahajjud find that it helps them detach from the material world, focusing entirely on Allah. The prayer allows the believer to seek solace in times of hardship, experience peace of mind, and renew their commitment to Allah’s guidance.

This voluntary prayer is regarded as an important means to develop a stronger connection with Allah, and its performance demonstrates a Muslim's devotion and desire for closeness to the Creator. It is a time when the believer feels the presence of Allah more strongly, as it is said that Allah descends to the lower heavens during the last third of the night, offering mercy and blessings to those who pray.

Many devoted Muslims strive to incorporate Tahajjud into their lives, not only as an act of worship but as a means of personal reflection, seeking Allah’s forgiveness, and obtaining His mercy. While it is not a religious obligation, it is highly recommended and encouraged in various Hadiths, showcasing the immense spiritual rewards for those who perform it regularly.

In essence, Tahajjud prayer is a powerful tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual purification, making it an invaluable aspect of the Islamic faith.

The Importance of Tahajjud Prayer

Tahajjud prayer, often described as the "night prayer," is one of the most esteemed voluntary (nafl) acts of worship in Islam. Although not obligatory, this prayer holds immense significance in the lives of devoted Muslims. The Tahajjud prayer is performed after the Isha (night) prayer, generally during the last third of the night, before the dawn breaks. For many Muslims, this prayer is not just a form of worship but a profound spiritual journey that brings them closer to Allah (SWT), purifies their hearts, and fills their lives with peace and blessings.

The Virtue and Blessings of Tahajjud Prayer

The Tahajjud prayer is regarded as the most virtuous of the nafl prayers, the ones performed voluntarily by Muslims outside of their obligatory duties. It is a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and a recommended act of worship that is highly encouraged in both the Holy Quran and various Hadiths. The significance of this prayer goes beyond its spiritual benefits, as it serves as a means of personal reflection, repentance, and gratitude to Allah.

1. A Means of Closeness to Allah

The primary significance of the Tahajjud prayer is that it is a powerful means of drawing closer to Allah. Muslims who engage in this prayer display their dedication to the worship of Allah during the peaceful and solitary hours of the night. It is a time when worldly distractions are minimized, and a Muslim can focus solely on their relationship with their Creator. As the believer stands in prayer, reciting the Quran and asking for forgiveness, they deepen their connection with Allah and submit to His will in sincerity.

The Holy Quran emphasizes this special relationship between the servant and the Creator, especially during the night:

• Surah Al-Isra (17:79):
  "And rise at 'the last' part of the night, offering additional prayers, so your Lord may raise you to a station of praise."
  This verse highlights the reward of performing Tahajjud and how it can elevate the believer’s status in the eyes of Allah.

• Surah Al-Furqan (25:64):
  "Who spend the night prostrating themselves before their Lord and standing."
  This verse praises those who engage in worship during the night, emphasizing that it is a virtuous act that brings them closer to Allah.

2. Achieving Spiritual Purity and Peace

Tahajjud prayer is also a means of attaining inner peace and spiritual purity. The quiet and serene atmosphere of the night creates an ideal setting for contemplation and repentance. Muslims who pray during these quiet hours are encouraged to reflect on their actions, ask for forgiveness, and seek Allah’s guidance. It is a time for the soul to seek solace and healing, away from the chaos of daily life.

The act of waking up in the middle of the night to pray symbolizes the believer’s desire to purify their heart and seek closeness to Allah. During the Tahajjud, the believer has the opportunity to turn to Allah with full sincerity, without the distractions of the world. It is said that in the last third of the night, Allah descends to the lower heavens and offers mercy and blessings to those who are praying. This closeness to Allah is a unique reward that the Tahajjud prayer provides.

3. A Source of Forgiveness and Mercy

The Tahajjud prayer is closely tied to seeking Allah’s forgiveness. It is considered one of the most powerful times for repentance, as the believer can ask for forgiveness for any past sins. In numerous Hadiths, it is mentioned that Allah is especially merciful during the night and listens to the supplications of those who are engaged in worship during these hours.

One famous Hadith states:
"Our Lord descends every night to the nearest heaven when only the last third of the night remains, saying: 'Who is calling upon Me, that I may answer him? Who is asking of Me, that I may give him? Who is seeking My forgiveness, that I may forgive him?'" (Sahih Bukhari)

This Hadith emphasizes the mercy of Allah, especially during the last part of the night. Believers who rise for Tahajjud are presented with an opportunity to seek forgiveness for their sins and begin anew, with a pure heart.

4. Personal Growth and Reflection

Tahajjud is not only about physical worship; it is also a time for personal reflection and growth. During these quiet hours, the believer can reflect on their actions, evaluate their deeds, and set spiritual goals. The Tahajjud prayer encourages mindfulness and self-awareness, offering a moment for the believer to assess their relationship with Allah and with others. It is a time for gratitude, where Muslims can express their thankfulness for Allah’s blessings and ask for continued guidance in their lives.

Tahajjud in the Quran

The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of night worship and the rewards associated with it. Several verses highlight the value of performing acts of worship in the quiet hours of the night:

• Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:17-18):
  "They used to sleep but little of the night, and in the hours before dawn, they would ask forgiveness."
  This verse speaks to the practice of those who engage in worship during the night, seeking forgiveness and reflecting on their lives before the dawn.

• Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:2-4):
  "Stand [to pray] all night, except for a little - Half of it, or a little less, or a little more."
  These verses encourage the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the believers to stand in prayer at night, as it is a means of purification and earning closeness to Allah.

The Reward of Tahajjud

The rewards for performing Tahajjud are numerous and significant. In addition to the closeness to Allah and the spiritual benefits, the believer is promised numerous blessings, including the forgiveness of sins, answers to supplications, and elevation in status. Performing Tahajjud is a means of cleansing the soul and elevating one’s rank in the eyes of Allah.

The Hadiths are replete with references to the rewards for those who perform Tahajjud regularly:

• Sahih Muslim:
  "In the early hours of the night, Allah descends and asks: 'Is there anyone seeking forgiveness so that I may forgive him? Is there anyone seeking provision so that I may provide for him? Is there anyone asking for anything so that I may grant it to him?'"

How to Perform Tahajjud

Tahajjud is performed after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer. While there is no fixed number of Rak’ahs (units of prayer) for Tahajjud, it is common for people to pray two to four Rak’ahs, and some may offer more. The key is to offer the prayer with sincerity and devotion. The best time to pray is during the last third of the night, which is considered the most blessed time for supplication.

The Tahajjud prayer holds a profound place in Islam, offering a unique opportunity for spiritual growth, purification, and closeness to Allah. While not obligatory, it is highly encouraged, and those who regularly perform it are promised numerous blessings. The importance of Tahajjud is emphasized both in the Holy Quran and Hadith, demonstrating its status as one of the most virtuous acts of worship. In a world filled with distractions, the Tahajjud prayer provides Muslims with the chance to reconnect with their Creator and seek His mercy, forgiveness, and guidance.

When to Pray Tahajjud?

The Tahajjud prayer is a highly esteemed voluntary prayer performed during the night. While not obligatory, it holds great significance in Islam due to the spiritual benefits and rewards it brings to the believer. The Tahajjud prayer is performed after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer, ideally during the last third of the night. This time frame is considered the most blessed for prayer, as it coincides with a period when Allah (SWT) is especially close to His creation.

Timing of Tahajjud

• After Isha Prayer: The Tahajjud prayer is performed after the Isha (night) prayer, which is one of the five obligatory prayers in Islam. Once Isha is completed, the believer has the entire night ahead of them to perform the Tahajjud prayer.

• Before Fajr Prayer: The prayer is concluded before the Fajr (dawn) prayer begins. This allows the worshipper to experience the peace and serenity of the night, engaging in supplication and connection with Allah in solitude.

The Last Third of the Night

While Tahajjud can be offered at any time between the Isha and Fajr prayers, the last third of the night is considered the most virtuous time to pray. This is the final portion of the night, and it is a time when Allah (SWT) descends to the lowest heaven, offering mercy and blessings to those who seek His forgiveness and guidance. According to a well-known Hadith:

• Sahih al-Bukhari (Hadith 1145): "Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes every night down on the nearest Heaven to us when the last third of the night remains, saying: 'Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?'"

This Hadith highlights the special significance of the last third of the night, a time when Allah is especially attentive to the supplications of His worshippers. It is an opportunity for Muslims to ask for Allah’s forgiveness, make du'a (supplication), and seek divine mercy. Many believers strive to wake up during this time to take advantage of these spiritual blessings.

The Virtue of Praying at Night

Praying during the night is highly praised in the Quran and Hadith. Allah (SWT) speaks about the beauty and significance of night worship in the Quran:

• Surah Al-Isra (17:79):
  "And rise at 'the last' part of the night, offering additional prayers, so your Lord may raise you to a station of praise."

• Surah Al-Furqan (25:64):
  "Those who spend the night prostrating themselves before their Lord and standing [in prayer]."

These verses underscore the high status of those who dedicate themselves to prayer during the night. Night worship is presented as an act that brings the believer closer to Allah and elevates them to a higher spiritual status.

The Best Prayer After the Obligatory Prayers

The Tahajjud prayer holds the distinction of being the best voluntary prayer after the obligatory (fard) prayers. In a Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira (RA), the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was asked about the most excellent prayer after the prescribed prayers. He replied:

• Sahih Muslim:
  "The best prayer after the prescribed prayer is the prayer in the middle of the night."

This Hadith indicates that, among all voluntary prayers, Tahajjud holds the highest rank, as it is performed in the stillness and tranquility of the night, a time free from distractions. It is a moment for a believer to turn to Allah in a pure and devoted manner, seeking His mercy and forgiveness.

Encouragement in the Quran

Allah (SWT) encourages the believers to engage in night worship and devotion:

• Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:6-8):
  "Indeed, worship in the night is more impactful and suitable for recitation. For during the day, you are over-occupied with worldly duties. 'Always' remember the Name of your Lord, and devote yourself to Him wholeheartedly."

These verses emphasize the effectiveness and purity of night worship. During the day, Muslims are often busy with worldly activities and responsibilities, but at night, there is a unique opportunity for focused devotion. Tahajjud provides the believer with a chance to reconnect with Allah, away from the distractions of daily life.

Benefits of Praying Tahajjud

1. Spiritual Closeness to Allah: The Tahajjud prayer is an intimate moment between the believer and Allah. During this time, a believer can pour their heart out to Allah, seek His forgiveness, and ask for His mercy.

2. Increased Rewards and Forgiveness: The night prayer is a means to cleanse the heart, seek Allah’s forgiveness, and earn immense rewards. Allah promises to forgive those who sincerely repent during this blessed time.

3. Elevated Status: Performing Tahajjud regularly is a means of elevating one's spiritual rank in the eyes of Allah. It is said that those who pray at night are granted a higher station in Paradise.

4. Peace of Mind: The tranquility of the night provides an ideal setting for reflection, meditation, and prayer. Tahajjud brings peace to the heart and allows the believer to seek clarity and guidance from Allah.

5. A Means of Healing: The act of standing before Allah in the quiet of the night has a profound emotional and psychological impact. It is a time for personal healing and spiritual rejuvenation.

Tahajjud prayer is a highly rewarding and spiritually enriching practice in Islam. While it is not obligatory, its significance cannot be overstated. The best time to perform Tahajjud is during the last third of the night, when Allah (SWT) is closest to His creation and offers mercy and forgiveness. The spiritual benefits of Tahajjud are immense, as it brings the believer closer to Allah, purifies the soul, and provides a means of seeking divine mercy and guidance. Muslims are encouraged to invest in this blessed act of worship and make it a regular part of their spiritual journey.

How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer

Tahajjud prayer is one of the most revered voluntary prayers in Islam. It is performed during the night, preferably after waking up from sleep, and can be done at any time after Isha (the obligatory night prayer) until just before the Fajr (dawn) prayer. It is a prayer that requires sincere devotion and deep concentration, providing Muslims with an opportunity to seek closeness to Allah (SWT) and seek His mercy and forgiveness. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform the Tahajjud prayer:

1. Wake Up and Perform Wudu (Ablution)

The first step is to wake up from sleep during the night. Ideally, Tahajjud prayer is performed during the last third of the night. Upon waking up, make sure you perform wudu (ablution). Ablution is necessary before performing any prayer, as it ensures that the body is purified.

2. Make the Niyyah (Intention)

The next step is to make the niyyah (intention) to pray Tahajjud. The intention is a key part of any Islamic prayer, and it should be made from the heart. You do not need to say the intention out loud, but you should have a clear mental commitment to pray for the sake of Allah.

The Niyyah for Tahajjud prayer can be stated as follows:

• Arabic:
  أُصَلِّي سُنَّةَ التَهَجُّد رَكعَتَينِ لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى
  Transliteration: Usolli sunnata-tahajjud rak'ataini lillah ta'ala
  Translation: I intend to pray the Sunnah prayer of Tahajjud two raka'at for Allah (SWT).

This intention reflects that the prayer is being offered to Allah alone, seeking His pleasure and forgiveness.

3. Begin the Prayer (Takbir)

After making the intention, begin your prayer by saying Takbir (Allahu Akbar), which means "Allah is the Greatest." This is the opening phrase of every prayer in Islam.

• Takbir: Allahu Akbar
  This is followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha (the opening chapter of the Quran) and another chapter (Surah) of the Quran in each rak'ah.

4. Perform Two Rak'ahs

Tahajjud prayer begins with two rak'ahs, just like any regular voluntary prayer. In each rak'ah, you will:

• Recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by another Surah from the Quran (you can choose any Surah you are comfortable with).
• Perform the ruku' (bowing), where you bend at the waist and say "Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem" ("Glory is to my Lord, the Most Great").
• Then, rise up from the bowing position and stand upright, saying "Sami' Allahu liman hamidah" ("Allah hears the one who praises Him").
• After that, perform sujud (prostration) twice, saying "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" ("Glory is to my Lord, the Most High") in each sujud.
• After the second prostration, sit briefly, and then repeat the sequence for the second rak'ah.

5. End the Prayer (Salam)

After completing two rak'ahs, end the prayer with the tasleem (salutation). You do this by turning your head to the right and then to the left while saying:

• "Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you).

This concludes the Tahajjud prayer for two rak'ahs.

6. Increase the Number of Rak'ahs (Optional)

While the minimum number of rak'ahs for Tahajjud is two, you can pray more. Tahajjud can be performed in increments of two rak'ahs, such as four, six, eight, or even twelve rak'ahs, depending on your ability and desire. There is no fixed limit on the number of rak'ahs, and it can be done as much as one is capable of. It is recommended to increase the rak'ahs if you have the energy and time.

7. Make Dua (Supplication)

After completing your Tahajjud prayer, it is highly encouraged to make dua (supplications). This is a moment when Allah is closest to His creation, and your supplications are more likely to be accepted. Ask Allah for what is good in this world and the Hereafter, seek His forgiveness, and express your gratitude.

Your dua should be sincere, respectful, and done in complete devotion to Allah. You can ask for anything from Allah, whether it is personal needs, guidance, or forgiveness. This is a time for heartfelt communication with your Creator.

8. Witr Prayer (Final Prayer)

After completing your Tahajjud prayer, it is highly recommended to end the night prayer with the Witr prayer. The Witr prayer is a single, odd-numbered rak'ah prayer, which is the final prayer of the night. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized that Witr should be the last prayer offered after Tahajjud:

• Sahih Muslim 751:
  "He who prayed at night should make Witr the end of his prayer, for the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) ordered this."

The Witr prayer can be performed as one rak'ah or more, but it should always be an odd number, such as one rak'ah, three rak'ahs, five rak'ahs, etc.

Tahajjud prayer is a special prayer that brings immense spiritual rewards and closeness to Allah (SWT). While it is not obligatory, it is a recommended Sunnah prayer that allows believers to connect with their Lord in the stillness of the night. It requires effort and commitment, but the rewards far outweigh the effort. By following the steps outlined above, Muslims can perform the Tahajjud prayer and experience its spiritual benefits, including increased mercy from Allah, peace of mind, and forgiveness for sins. After completing the Tahajjud prayer, concluding with the Witr prayer ensures that the night comes to an end in the best possible way.

Is There Any Du’a For Tahajjud?

The Tahajjud prayer is a highly esteemed act of worship that occurs in the quiet hours of the night, offering a unique opportunity for sincere and heartfelt supplication. One of the most significant aspects of Tahajjud is the power of du’a (supplication) during this blessed time, as it is considered a moment when Allah (S.W.T.) is particularly close to His servants, ready to respond to their calls.

The Importance of Du'a in Tahajjud Prayer

While any du’a is acceptable and encouraged during Tahajjud, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught us specific supplications to offer at night, especially during this prayer. Du’a is a direct conversation with Allah, where a person can express their innermost thoughts, desires, and needs. Tahajjud, being a special prayer offered at the time when the rest of the world is asleep, is an ideal moment for a believer to seek Allah's mercy, forgiveness, and guidance.

A Narration from Ibn 'Abbas

One of the most well-known supplications the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to say when he woke up for the Tahajjud prayer was narrated by Ibn 'Abbas. It provides a comprehensive and powerful du’a that praises Allah and seeks His forgiveness, while acknowledging His sovereignty over all things. This du’a is a beautiful expression of faith and submission to Allah, encompassing key aspects of our belief, such as the truth of Allah’s promises, the existence of Paradise and Hell, the Day of Judgment, and the Prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH).

The Du'a of the Prophet (PBUH) During Tahajjud

Arabic: اللَّهُمَّ لَكَ الْحَمْدُ أَنْتَ نُورُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ، وَلَكَ الْحَمْدُ أَنْتَ قَيِّمُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ، وَلَكَ الْحَمْدُ أَنْتَ الْحَقُّ، وَوَعْدُكَ الْحَقُّ، وَقَوْلُكَ الْحَقُّ، وَلِقَاؤُكَ حَقٌّ، وَالْجَنَّةُ حَقٌّ، وَالنَّارُ حَقٌّ، وَالسَّاعَةُ حَقٌّ، وَالنَّبِيُّونَ حَقٌّ، وَمُحَمَّدٌ حَقٌّ، اللَّهُمَّ لَكَ أَسْلَمْتُ، وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ، وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ، وَإِلَيْكَ أَنَبْتُ، وَبِكَ خَاصَمْتُ، وَإِلَيْكَ حَاكَمْتُ، فَاغْفِرْ لِي مَا قَدَّمْتُ وَمَا أَخَّرْتُ، وَمَا أَسْرَرْتُ وَمَا أَأْلَنْتُ أَنْتَ الْمُقَدِّمُ وَأَنْتَ الْمُؤَخِّرُ لا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ وَلا إِلَهَ غَيْرُكَ

Transliteration:

Allahumma laka alhamdu anta nooru as-samawati wal-ardi waman fihinna, wa laka alhamdu anta qayyimu as-samawati wal-ardi waman fihinna, wa laka alhamdu anta al-haqqu wa wa'duka al-haqqu wa qawlukal-haqqu wa liqa'uka haqqu wal-jannatu haqqu wa an-naaru haqqu wa as-saa'atu haqqu wa an-nabiyyuna haqqu wa Muhammadun haqqu. Allahumma laka aslamtu wa 'alayka tawakkaltu wa bika aamantu wa ilayka anabtu wa bika khasamtu wa ilayka hakamtu, faghfir li ma qaddamtu wa ma akhkhartu wa ma asarrartu wa ma a'lanntu. Anta al-muqaddimu wa anta al-mu'akhkhiru la ilaha illa anta wa la ilaha ghayruk.

Translation:

O Allah, to You be praise, You are the Light of the heavens and the earth, and everyone therein. To You be praise; You are the Holder of the heavens and the earth, and everyone therein. To You be praise; You are the Truth; Your promise is true; Your words are true; Your meeting is true; Paradise is true; Hell is true; the Hour is true; the Prophets are true; and Muhammad is true. To You have I submitted; in You I put my trust; in You I have believed; to You I have turned in repentance; by Your help I argue; to You I refer my case. So, forgive me for my past and future sins, what I have done secretly and what I have done openly. You are the One Who brings forward and puts back. None has the right to be worshipped but You, and there is none who has the right to be worshipped other than You.

Key Themes and Significance of the Du’a

1. Praise for Allah (S.W.T.): The du’a begins by praising Allah as the Light and Sustainer of the heavens and the earth. This emphasizes the sovereignty of Allah over the entire universe.

2. Acknowledgment of Allah’s Truth and Promises: The supplication affirms the truth of Allah’s words, promises, and the inevitable occurrence of Paradise, Hell, and the Day of Judgment. This serves as a reminder of the ultimate reality of the afterlife and the guidance given to us by Allah.

3. Surrender and Submission: The supplication includes phrases of complete submission to Allah, acknowledging that the believer submits to Allah's will, puts trust in Him, and seeks His forgiveness.

4. Seeking Forgiveness: The du’a is also a plea for forgiveness for past and future sins, whether done openly or in secret. It serves as a profound reminder of the importance of seeking Allah’s forgiveness, especially during the blessed time of Tahajjud.

5. Affirmation of the Oneness of Allah: The supplication concludes with a powerful declaration of the oneness of Allah, affirming that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.

The Power of Du’a During Tahajjud

The time of Tahajjud is a blessed time when Allah (S.W.T.) descends to the lowest heaven, as mentioned in a hadith:
"Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask of Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1145)

This narration highlights the significance of making du’a during the night prayer, particularly during the last third of the night, which is considered one of the most blessed moments for supplication.

Tahajjud is not just a time for worship and prayer, but a special opportunity to connect with Allah on a deeply personal level. The du’a of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as an excellent model for us to follow during this prayer, offering words of praise, submission, and supplication. By reciting this du’a, or making our own heartfelt prayers, we can seek Allah’s mercy, guidance, and forgiveness during these precious moments of the night.

Benefits of Tahajjud Prayer

Tahajjud prayer, performed in the quiet hours of the night, holds immense spiritual and worldly benefits. It is a special act of worship that brings the believer closer to Allah (S.W.T.) and is highly recommended in Islam. Here are the key benefits of Tahajjud prayer:

1. Forgiveness of Sins

Tahajjud is a powerful means of seeking Allah’s forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer (Tahajjud)." (Sahih Muslim)

Through sincere supplication and repentance during Tahajjud, Allah promises to forgive sins, as the time is considered to be one when Allah is especially merciful and ready to forgive those who turn to Him with humility. This helps purify the heart and soul from past mistakes and transgressions.

2. Protection from the Devil

Tahajjud is a means of protection from the whispers of Shaytaan (the Devil). The night prayer strengthens a believer’s resolve and fortifies their faith against the temptations and deceit of Shaytaan, helping to keep them on the straight path. In fact, performing Tahajjud serves as a shield from evil and an opportunity to invoke Allah for His protection.

3. Increase in One’s Spiritual Rank

The Tahajjud prayer elevates a person’s spiritual status. Allah rewards those who rise in the night to worship Him, elevating their rank in His sight. Allah says in the Qur’an: "And during the night, prostrate to Him and glorify Him a long part of the night." (Al-Insan 76:26)

This act of devotion helps to purify the soul, improve character, and achieve spiritual growth, leading to an increase in one’s closeness to Allah.

4. Acceptance of Du’a (Supplication)

One of the greatest benefits of performing Tahajjud is that Allah is especially receptive to the du’a (supplication) made during this time. The last third of the night, when Allah descends to the lowest heaven, is a time when He listens attentively to the needs and requests of His servants. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned: "Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to his invocation?" (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This special time makes Tahajjud an excellent opportunity to ask Allah for forgiveness, blessings, and guidance, as well as to make personal supplications.

5. Increased Reward in the Hereafter

The rewards of Tahajjud are not limited to this world. Those who regularly engage in the night prayer will be rewarded immensely in the Hereafter. The Prophet (PBUH) said: "In Paradise, there are rooms whose exterior is visible from the interior and the interior is visible from the exterior. Allah has prepared them for those who feed others, who are good to their companions, and who pray while people are asleep." (Sahih Muslim)

Tahajjud is one of the deeds that will bring abundant rewards in the Hereafter, where Allah will grant them an elevated status and great blessings.

6. Helps to Deepen Connection with Allah S.W.T.

Tahajjud provides a unique opportunity for a believer to strengthen their relationship with Allah. In the stillness of the night, when the world is asleep, the worshipper stands alone before Allah, reciting the Qur’an, making du’a, and seeking Allah’s mercy and guidance. This intimacy fosters a deeper connection with Allah, allowing the believer to express their love, gratitude, and reliance on Him.

7. Provides a Sense of Inner Peace and Contentment

Tahajjud has a profound psychological and emotional effect. The act of standing in prayer at night, with sincerity and devotion, brings a sense of tranquility and peace. It helps to alleviate stress, anxiety, and the worries of daily life. The believer finds comfort in knowing they are performing an act that pleases Allah, which in turn leads to a sense of fulfillment and contentment.

Tahajjud is not just a prayer, but a spiritual practice that yields numerous benefits for the believer. It provides an opportunity for forgiveness, protection from evil, and the elevation of one’s spiritual rank. Moreover, it helps to deepen the relationship with Allah and brings inner peace and contentment. By making Tahajjud a regular part of our worship, we open ourselves to Allah’s mercy and blessings, both in this life and the Hereafter.

How Often Should We Perform Tahajjud?

Tahajjud is a highly recommended act of worship in Islam, and while it is not obligatory, it carries immense rewards and spiritual benefits. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged performing Tahajjud regularly, and it is considered a mark of devotion and sincerity.

Recommended Frequency

1. Daily Tahajjud
   Ideally, it is recommended to perform the Tahajjud prayer every night. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself regularly performed Tahajjud, and many of his companions followed his example. Praying Tahajjud daily allows a person to strengthen their connection with Allah, seek forgiveness, and make heartfelt supplications during the night.

2. Multiple Times a Week
   While performing Tahajjud every night is highly encouraged, it is also acceptable to perform it on specific nights during the week, especially if daily prayer is not feasible due to personal circumstances. The key is consistency and intention. Some people may find it easier to pray Tahajjud a few times a week, and this is still highly beneficial. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The best of deeds are those done regularly, even if they are few.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

3. No Fixed Number of Rak'ahs
   The number of rak'ahs for Tahajjud is flexible. It is common to pray two rak’ahs but can be extended to four, six, eight, or more depending on one's ability. The important thing is to make a sincere effort and be consistent, even if the prayer is short.

Benefits of Regularity in Tahajjud

Performing Tahajjud on a regular basis increases its rewards. The more consistently you offer it, the more you reap the spiritual benefits such as:

• Forgiveness of sins
• Proximity to Allah
• Acceptance of supplications
• Increased spiritual strength and peace

While it is recommended to perform Tahajjud every night, the frequency can be adjusted based on your personal circumstances. However, it is important to aim for consistency, whether that means performing it daily or several times a week. Making Tahajjud a regular practice in your worship helps to deepen your faith and brings many spiritual and worldly benefits.