In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and reflection can be challenging. Yet, there exists a time-honored practice that offers spiritual seekers a sense of serenity and closeness to Allah Almighty in the hours of night. This practice is known as Tahajjud prayer. For Muslims, Tahajjud represents a sacred opportunity for intimate communion with Allah during the stillness of the night. Whether you’re a committed Muslim, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about the deeper aspects of prayer, this blog post will explore the significance of Tahajjud, outline the proper method of performing it, discuss the challenges youth face in observing this prayer, and offer practical tips to incorporate it into our daily lives.
The Significance of Benefits of Tahajjud in Islam
Tahajjud is a devotional prayer that holds a special place in Islamic tradition. There are many spiritual benefits of praying Tahajjud. It is often regarded as a means of finding inner peace, reducing stress, building resilience and patience, attaining closeness to Allah and receiving His blessings. In Hadith mentioned a lot of benefits of Tahajjud dua. It is the blessed time to maintain focus and connection with Allah Almighty.
The Qur’an and Hadith emphasize the significance of Tahajjud. In the Qur’an, Allah says in Surah Al-Isra (17:79)
“And rise at (the last) part of the night, offering additional prayers, so your Lord may raise you to Maqam e Mahmood (the highest degree in Paradise!).” [Surah Al-Isra: 79]
The people who wake up in nights are those who, instead of resting in the peaceful time of night, stand in front of their true beloved in worship and servitude, engaging in confidential talks in their prayers. Allah mentions these people in different ways in the Qur’an, as in one place it is stated:
“They used to sleep but little of the night, and in the hours before dawn, they would ask forgiveness.” [Surah Adh-Dhariyat: 17-18]
The hadith on Tahajjud also highlights it virtues. Hazrat Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“… after the obligatory prayers, the most virtuous prayer is the night prayer (Tahajjud).” [Nasai]
This underscores the immense spiritual benefits associated with Tahajjud, making it a cherished practice among Muslims.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform Tahajjud
The method of performing the Tahajjud prayer is the same as that of regular voluntary (Nafl) prayers; there is no specific method prescribed for Tahajjud. Performing Tahajjud may seem daunting at first, but with a few simple steps, you can incorporate this beautiful prayer into your routine. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
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Wake Up in the Last Third of the Night
The time of Tahajjud starts after the Isha prayer and continues until the break of dawn (Fajr). However, it is preferable to perform it in the last third of the night, a time when the world is quiet and distractions are minimal. To wake up at this time, consider setting an alarm or adjusting your sleep schedule to ensure you have enough rest.
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Make Intention and Perform Wudu (Ablution)
Before performing Tahajjud, it is essential to set a sincere intention (niyyah). This is a mental commitment to perform the prayer solely for the sake of Allah. Perform Wudu to cleanse yourself physically and spiritually. These acts prepare your mind and body for the sacred act of worship.
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Start with Two Rakat
Start your prayer by offering two Rakat (units of prayer). You can recite any portion of the Qur’an during these Rakat. Continue to offer additional units of prayer in sets of two. However, the recommended way to perform Tahajjud is to pray eight Rak’ahs, divided into four sets of two Rak’ahs each, with a slightly longer recitation if possible. You can pray as much as you feel comfortable. The key is to maintain focus and devotion throughout the prayer.
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Make Dua (Supplication)
After completing your Tahajjud prayer, take some time to make Tahajjud dua. This is a special moment to pour your heart out to Allah, seeking His guidance, forgiveness, and blessings. Use this time to express your deepest desires and concerns. There is an opportunity for acceptance of dua in Tahajjud.
Tahajjud Prayer Time
Tahajjud salat time starts after Isha and lasts until dawn. There are narrations from Sahih Hadiths from Hazrat Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performed Tahajjud at the beginning of the night, in the middle of the night, and at the end of the night.
However, in the later years, he mostly performed it towards the end of the night. The further into the night it is, the greater the blessings and mercy. The last part of the night is the best time for Tahajjud and full of mercy to perform it.
Sleep Before Tahajjud
Tahajjud literally means the abandonment of sleep, so all times of sleep after Isha are considered suitable for Tahajjud. Moreover, it is not a condition in the Qur’anic text that one must sleep first before performing the Tahajjud prayer. Some Hadith narrations also support this broader interpretation of Tahajjud.
Imam Ibn Kathir (may Allah have mercy on him) quoted Hazrat Hasan Basri (may Allah have mercy on him) defining Tahajjud as any prayer performed after the Isha prayer. However, due to common practice, it is often understood to mean prayer after some sleep.
In essence, it is not a requirement for the Tahajjud prayer to be performed only after sleeping, and this condition is not present in the words of the Qur’an. However, the common practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) was to perform it by waking up in the last part of the night, making this the preferred method.”
Challenges Faced by Muslim Youth in Praying Tahajjud
In earlier times, it was customary to perform the Tahajjud prayer with great frequency and diligence. The elders of the household, various individuals, men and women, would leave their beds in the last part of the night, perform ablution with cold or warm water, then the men would head towards the mosque, and the women would perform Tahajjud prayer in designated places within their homes. These people would remain deeply engrossed in their devotion and supplication to their true beloved until the break of dawn.
However, it is with great sorrow and regret that we must say that since the advent of modern inventions like TV, VCR, satellite dishes, and the internet, especially social media platforms like Facebook, we Muslims have completely abandoned this national and religious heritage.
May Allah grant us the ability, especially during the blessed month of Ramadan, to perform the Tahajjud prayer and enable us to continue this practice regularly.
Incorporating Tahajjud into Modern Life Tips and Advice
Integrating Tahajjud into a busy modern lifestyle may seem challenging, but with thoughtful planning and dedication, it is possible. Here are some tips to help you incorporate this beautiful practice into your routine:
- Prioritize Your Sleep Schedule
Ensure you get enough rest by adjusting your sleep schedule. Going to bed earlier can help you wake up refreshed and ready for Tahajjud.
- Create a Peaceful Environment
Prepare a quiet and serene space for your prayer. This could be a corner of your room or a designated prayer area where you can focus without distractions.
- Start Small and Gradually Increase
If waking up for Tahajjud seems overwhelming, start with a small commitment. Begin by praying a few Rakat and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the practice.
- Stay Consistent
Consistency is key to making Tahajjud a regular part of your life. Even if you miss a night, don’t be discouraged. Keep striving to make it a consistent habit.
- Seek Support and Encouragement
Share your intention to perform Tahajjud prayer with family or friends who can provide support and encouragement. Having a prayer buddy can make the experience more enjoyable and motivating.
FAQs about Tahajjud Prayer
What is the best time to pray tahajjud?
The common practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his Companions was to perform it by waking up in the last part of the night, making this the preferred method.”
How many rakats in tahajjud are recommended to pray?
The recommended way to perform Tahajjud is to pray eight Rak’ahs, divided into four sets of two Rak’ahs each. You can also pray as much rakats as you feel comfortable.
Do I need to recite specific surah to read in tahajjud?
While there are no specific surah to recite in tahajjud, it is recommended to recite longer portions of the Qur’an to enhance your spiritual experience.
Is tahajjud sunnah or nafl?
Tahajjud is a voluntary (nafl) prayer. However, it is highly recommended and holds significant spiritual benefits.
Can tahajjud be Prayed without Sleeping?
It is not a condition in the Qur’anic text that one must sleep first before performing the Tahajjud prayer.
Conclusion
Incorporating Tahajjud into your spiritual routine is a beautiful way to deepen your connection with Allah and find inner peace. The quiet moments of the night offer a unique opportunity for reflection, supplication, and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned prayer enthusiast or just beginning your spiritual journey, Tahajjud can bring profound benefits to your life.
Take the first step today and set your intention to perform Tahajjud. Start small, stay consistent, and watch as this practice transforms your relationship with Allah and enhances your overall well-being.