Ramadan is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual growth. Among its most beautiful acts of worship is tarawih prayer, a special nightly prayer that brings Muslims closer to Allah. Every year, millions of believers gather in mosques or pray at home to perform tarawih, seeking reward and strengthening their faith.
In this complete guide, we will explore everything you need to know about tarawih prayer its meaning, virtues, how to pray tarawih, how many rakat in taraweeh, and the hadith of taraweeh. Whether you are new to Islam, a student, or someone looking to deepen your knowledge, this guide will help you understand and perform taraweeh with confidence.
What Is Tarawih Prayer?
Tarawih prayer is a voluntary (Sunnah) prayer performed during the month of Ramadan after the obligatory Isha prayer. The word tarawih comes from the Arabic root meaning “to rest” or “relax,” because worshippers would take short breaks after every four units (rakats).
It is not obligatory, but it is highly recommended and carries immense rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to pray during Ramadan nights with sincerity and faith.
Tarawih is part of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer), but it is specific to Ramadan. It is a time when the Quran is recited extensively, and hearts are softened by remembrance of Allah.
The History of Tarawih Prayer
During the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), he prayed taraweeh in congregation for a few nights in the mosque. However, he later stopped leading it publicly because he feared it might become obligatory for his followers.
After his passing, during the caliphate of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), Muslims were gathered to pray taraweeh in congregation behind one imam. This practice continues today in mosques around the world.
This shows that tarawih prayer is rooted in authentic Sunnah and supported by the companions of the Prophet.
Hadith of Taraweeh
The importance of tarawih prayer is clearly mentioned in authentic hadith.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)
This hadith of taraweeh highlights two important conditions:
- Sincerity in faith
- Hoping for reward from Allah
This promise of forgiveness makes tarawih one of the greatest opportunities in Ramadan.
How to Pray Tarawih
Many people ask how to pray tarawih correctly. The good news? It is simple and similar to other voluntary prayers.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform Taraweeh Prayer
Taraweeh prayer is a special voluntary night prayer performed during the blessed month of Ramadan. It is prayed after the obligatory Isha prayer and before Witr. If you’re wondering how to perform Taraweeh prayer correctly, this simple step-by-step guide will help you pray with confidence and focus.
Step 1: Pray Isha First
Before beginning Taraweeh, you must complete:
- 4 rakats of Fard (obligatory) Isha
- 2 rakats of Sunnah after Isha
Taraweeh is prayed only after Isha has been completed.
Step 2: Make the Intention (Niyyah)
You do not need to say the intention out loud. Simply make the intention in your heart:
“I intend to pray Taraweeh for the sake of Allah.”
Sincerity is key. Your intention should be to seek Allah’s pleasure and reward.
Step 3: Pray in Sets of Two Rakats
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The night prayer is prayed two by two.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
This means you pray Taraweeh in pairs of two rakats, saying tasleem (ending with “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah”) after every two rakats.
Step 4: Recitation in Each Rakat
In each rakat:
- Recite Surah Al-Fatiha
- Recite another surah or verses from the Quran
- Complete the rakat as usual (Ruku, Sujood, etc.)
If praying in congregation:
- The Imam recites aloud.
- Follow the Imam’s movements carefully.
If praying at home:
- You may recite from memory.
- You may read from a Mushaf (physical Quran) if needed.
Step 5: Continue Until Desired Number of Rakats
You may pray:
- 8 rakats (commonly practiced based on the Prophet’s night prayer)
- 20 rakats (commonly prayed in many mosques)
- Any number that you can perform with focus and sincerity
There is flexibility in the number of rakats. What matters most is devotion and consistency.
Step 6: Take Short Breaks (Optional)
The word “Taraweeh” means “to rest.” It is permissible to take short breaks after every four rakats if needed, especially during long prayers in congregation.
Step 7: Conclude with Witr Prayer
After completing Taraweeh, end your night prayer with Witr.
Witr can be prayed as:
- 1 rakat
- 3 rakats (most common)
- 5 rakats
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized not leaving Witr.
Spiritual Benefits of Tarawih Prayer
Tarawih is not just an extra prayer; it is spiritual training.
1. Forgiveness of Sins
As mentioned in the hadith of taraweeh, sins are forgiven for those who pray with faith.
2. Strengthens Connection with the Quran
During tarawih, large portions of the Quran are recited. Many mosques complete the entire Quran during Ramadan.
3. Builds Discipline
Praying every night requires commitment and self-control.
4. Unity of the Ummah
Mosques fill with worshippers standing shoulder to shoulder.
5. Increased Taqwa
Long prayers soften the heart and increase humility.
Can You Pray Tarawih at Home?
Yes, absolutely.
While praying in congregation brings greater reward, praying at home is completely valid, especially for women, elderly individuals, or those unable to attend the mosque.
You may:
- Pray alone
- Pray with family
- Read from the Mushaf (Quran)
If you are unsure about recitation rules or prayer steps, joining online learning programs at Iqra Network can help you perform tarawih properly and confidently.
Tips for Making the Most of Taraweeh
Here are practical tips to maximize your tarawih prayer experience:
- Sleep early to maintain energy.
- Eat light at Iftar to avoid feeling heavy.
- Understand what is being recited by reading the translation.
- Make dua during sujood (prostration).
- Stay consistent, even if you pray fewer rakats.
Even praying 8 rakats consistently is better than starting strong and quitting halfway.
Common Mistakes During Tarawih
Let’s avoid these common errors:
- Rushing through recitation
- Treating tarawih as a social event
- Leaving early without valid reason
- Focusing only on finishing quickly
- Neglecting Witr prayer
Remember, tarawih is about spiritual reflection not just completion.
Tarawih Prayer for Beginners
If you are new to Islam or newly practicing, don’t feel overwhelmed.
Start small:
- Begin with 2 or 4 rakats
- Learn short surahs
- Focus on sincerity
Gradually increase as you feel comfortable.
Structured learning can make a huge difference. IQRA Network offers beginner-friendly Quran and prayer courses designed for all ages. Their flexible online classes allow you to learn from home at your own pace. We strongly recommend registering early during Ramadan due to high demand.
Women and Tarawih Prayer
Women can:
- Pray tarawih at home
- Attend mosque if comfortable
- Pray individually or in small groups
Islam encourages spiritual growth for both men and women equally. There is immense reward for women who dedicate their nights to prayer during Ramadan.
The Importance of Witr After Tarawih
Witr is the final prayer of the night and completes tarawih.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized praying Witr regularly. It can be prayed as:
- 1 rakat
- 3 rakats
- 5 rakats
Never leave tarawih without concluding with Witr.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is tarawih prayer obligatory?
No, tarawih is Sunnah Mu’akkadah (highly recommended), not obligatory.
2. Can I pray tarawih alone?
Yes, you can pray alone at home, and it is completely valid.
3. How many rakat in taraweeh should I pray?
You may pray 8 or 20 rakats. Both practices are acceptable.
4. What if I don’t know long surahs?
You can recite short surahs or repeat ones you know.
5. Is tarawih different from Tahajjud?
Tarawih is a special night prayer during Ramadan. Tahajjud is prayed during the last third of the night throughout the year.
6. Can children pray tarawih?
Yes, children are encouraged to participate in building good habits.
Strengthen Your Ramadan with Proper Knowledge
Ramadan is short. The nights pass quickly. Don’t let this opportunity slip away.
Learning the correct way to perform tarawih prayer can transform your Ramadan experience. Whether it’s improving Quran recitation, understanding tajweed, or learning fiqh rulings, guidance matters.
That’s why we recommend enrolling in courses at IQRA Network, a trusted platform dedicated to authentic Islamic education. Their qualified teachers provide one-on-one classes for children and adults. You can explore their programs and register through their official website and registration page today.
Conclusion
Tarawih prayer is one of the most beautiful gifts of Ramadan. It brings forgiveness, strengthens faith, and connects us deeply with the Quran. Whether you pray 8 or 20 rakats, in the mosque or at home, what truly matters is sincerity and devotion.
Now that you understand how to pray tarawih, how many rakat in taraweeh, and the hadith of taraweeh, take action. Make this Ramadan meaningful.
Stand in prayer. Reflect on the Quran. Seek forgiveness.
And most importantly, continue learning and growing in your faith through trusted platforms like IQRA Network
May Allah accept our tarawih and grant us forgiveness. Ameen.
