Ramadan, the holiest month for Muslims worldwide, is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement, and increased devotion through fasting, prayers, and community engagement. One of the most cherished and revered acts of worship during Ramadan is Taraweeh, a special form of night prayer. Allah Almighty has announced a big reward of Taraweeh to his believers. In the following post, we explore the deep-rooted significance of Taraweeh, its associated spiritual rewards, and practical tips for a fulfilling experience.
Understanding Taraweeh
Taraweeh prayers are offered in congregation by Muslims at night in the Islamic month of Ramadan. Taraweeh prayer is Sunnah Mu’akkadah and leaving it without any valid reason is a sin. Taraweeh prayer is performed only during Ramadan, after the obligatory Isha prayer. The word “Taraweeh” (تراويح) is an Arabic word that means “to rest and relax.” It refers to the brief intervals of rest the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers took between four cycles of the prayer.
Why are these prayers so significant?
Taraweeh is a Blessed Sunnah
Taraweeh is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah, which means it’s a practice that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged his followers to perform and regularly did himself. Its observance carries both individual and communal importance. It is a time to wrap up the blessings and reward of Taraweeh and to encourage the unity and brotherhood among Muslims. Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) used to spend His nights of Ramadan in nightly prayers as His wife Aishah (may Allah be pleased with Her) said:
Tie the lower garment is a metaphor used here for striving for worship and stay away from wives in these blessed nights.
Limitless Reward
Taraweeh is a greatest act of worship and an opportunity to strengthen one’s relationship with divine. Allah Almighty offers a limitless reward of Taraweeh as it consists of a comprehensive form of worship involving prayer, recitation, supplication, and prostration. One of the famous scholar Hafiz Ibn e Rajab said:
Ramadan gives you an opportunity to perform Jihad al Nafs by two ways. One is fasting at day whereas other is Taraweeh at night. Whoever performs these two, will be granted a limitless reward from Allah Almighty.
Connecting to The Quran
In the blessed nights of Ramadan, a unique tranquility descends upon the believers as they line up for the Taraweeh prayers. It is a profound spiritual experience that connects the soul to the Quran. The melodious recitations echoing through the mosques transform the verses into a soothing balm for hearts and minds. Reconnecting with the Quran during Taraweeh instills a sense of purpose and deepens one’s understanding of the text.
Discovering the Night of Decree
Furthermore, Taraweeh allows Muslims to worship in Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree, a night in Ramadan that is better than a thousand months according to Quran. According to Hadith, those who find and worship on this night are promised exceptional rewards and a forgiveness of previous sins. Our names will be included in worshipers of Laylat al-Qadr, If we regularly pray Taraweeh throughout the month.
The Reward of Taraweeh Prayers
Attaining Spiritual Heights of Ramadan
Partaking in Taraweeh allows Muslims to harness the spiritual potential of the blessed month of Ramadan. With the daily fasting and additional night prayers, believers are reminded of their ultimate purpose—to attain the pleasure of the Almighty and to strive for Jannah (Paradise).
The Promise of Forgiveness
It is said that the person who stands (in prayer) during the Night of Decree with faith and seeking rewards (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven. This is a time when the gates of Paradise are said to open, the Mercy of Allah descends, and His angels seek out the faithful. Prophet (peace be upon him) said in a Hadith:
The Reward for a Night of Prayer
Engaging in Taraweeh carries the reward as though one had spent the whole night in prayer, despite it lasting just a few hours. This act of devotion is a significant means of grace and mercy that God bestows upon those who approach Him sincerely and earnestly. Prophet peace be upon him said:
Intercession on the Day of Judgment
Purpose of Taraweeh is reading and listening the Quran the whole night. Another integral reward of Taraweeh is that these acts of worship will intercede on the Day of Resurrection, securing believers a praiseworthy status and a lighter reckoning. Prophet peace be upon him said:
Attainment of Taqwa (God-consciousness)
Taraweeh fosters the acquisition of Taqwa, which is God-consciousness and the fear of committing sins. It provides a framework for self-awareness and a desire to purify the heart. It is a sub-conscious reward of Taraweeh that Allah Almighty granted to his servant.
Helpful Tips of Taraweeh
The experience of Taraweeh can be fulfilling but might also present challenges, especially in balancing spiritual pursuits with the demands of daily life.
Managing Time and Energy
As mentioned in significance of Taraweeh, it is a Jihad (a struggle) as it takes place at night, managing time and energy levels is crucial. It’s important to strike a balance between the spiritual and physical aspects of Ramadan. This can be achieved by staying hydrated throughout the day, taking power naps, and carefully scheduling one’s day.
Cultivating the Right Environment
Creating a serene and conducive environment for prayer can greatly enhance the spiritual experience of Taraweeh. Setting up a prayer in mosque near to your home or arranging at homes and distractions free environment can amplify the connection to Allah and the prayers offered.
Staying Motivated and Consistent
The blessed act of Taraweeh is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to stay consistent and motivated throughout the month. Reminding oneself of the countless benefits and reward of Taraweeh, along with the community engagement, can keep one steadfast in observance of this spiritual obligation.
In Conclusion
The observance of Taraweeh is not merely a religious obligation; it is a gift bestowed upon the faithful. By recognizing the significance and understanding the reward of Taraweeh, one should commit to its practice and elevate his status in the eyes of God. May this Ramadan be a month of blessings, forgiveness, and enlightenment for all those who seek it. Remember, the ultimate goal is to emerge from Ramadan as a better, more pious servant of Allah.