Tahajjud, the night prayer, is a beloved act of worship in Islam. It is a voluntary prayer performed after waking from sleep, during the last third of the night. This article explores its immense spiritual rewards, how to perform it, and practical tips to make it a consistent part of your life.
What is Tahajjud? Definition and Quranic Basis
Tahajjud (also called Qiyam al-Layl or night prayer) is a supererogatory prayer offered after Isha and before Fajr, preferably after waking from sleep. The Quran commands the Prophet ﷺ to stand in night prayer, and by extension encourages the believers. Allah says: « Stand (to prayer) by night, but not all night,- » (Surah Al-Muzzammil, verse 2). The same surah highlights the unique quality of this time: « Truly the rising by night is most potent for governing (the soul), and most suitable for (framing) the Word (of Prayer and Praise). » (Surah Al-Muzzammil, verse 6). This indicates that the night is a time when distractions fade and the heart can focus entirely on the Divine.
The Term ‘Tahajjud’ in the Quran
The word ‘Tahajjud’ comes from the Arabic root ‘h-j-d’, meaning to wake up from sleep. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah instructs: « And pray in the small watches of the morning: (it would be) an additional prayer (or spiritual profit) for thee: soon will thy Lord raise thee to a Station of Praise and Glory! » (Surah Al-Isra, verse 79). This ‘additional prayer’ is Tahajjud, promised to elevate the believer to a praiseworthy station (Maqam Mahmud).
The Virtues and Rewards of Tahajjud
Tahajjud is highly recommended in the Sunnah. The Prophet ﷺ said: « The most excellent fast after Ramadan is Allah’s month, Muharram, and the most excellent prayer after what is prescribed is prayer during the night. » (Narrated by Muslim). This hadith places night prayer above all voluntary prayers. The Prophet himself was steadfast in this practice, as reported by ‘Ā’ishah: « The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) used to stand in prayer at night until the skin of his feet would crack. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). When asked why he exerted himself so much despite his sins being forgiven, he replied: « Should I not like to be a grateful slave (of Allah)? ». This shows that Tahajjud is not merely a ritual but an expression of profound gratitude and love.
Tahajjud and the Hereafter
The Quran describes those who perform night prayer as people of understanding: « Is one who worships devoutly during the hour of the night prostrating himself or standing (in adoration), who takes heed of the Hereafter, and who places his hope in the Mercy of his Lord – (like one who does not)? Say: « Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? » » (Surah Az-Zumar, verse 9). Night prayer is a sign of true knowledge and concern for the afterlife.
The Best Time for Tahajjud
The last third of the night is the most blessed time. The Prophet ﷺ said: « Indeed, prayer at the end of the night is witnessed (by the angels) and that is better. » (Narrated by Muslim). However, if one fears not waking up, he may pray Witr before sleeping, as the Prophet advised: « If anyone fears that he will not wake up at the end of the night, let him offer Witr prayer at the beginning of the night; and anyone expects to wake up at the end of the night, let him offer Witr prayer at the end of the night. » (Narrated by Muslim).
How to Perform Tahajjud: Step-by-Step Guide
Tahajjud is prayed in sets of two rak’ahs (units), with no fixed maximum. The minimum is two rak’ahs, and the Prophet ﷺ often prayed eleven or thirteen rak’ahs including Witr. ‘Ā’ishah reported: « The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) used to offer thirteen Rak‘ahs in the night prayer including Witr, plus two (voluntary) Rak‘ahs of the Fajr prayer. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). The prayer can be performed at any part of the night after Isha, but the best is after waking up in the last third.
The Opening Supplication (Du’a al-Iftitah)
When waking up for prayer, the Prophet ﷺ would begin with Takbir and then recite: « Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise. Blessed is Your name, exalted is Your greatness, and there is nothing worthy of worship but You, » three times. Then he would say: « Allah is the absolute Greatest, » three times, and seek refuge from the accursed Devil. (Narrated by Ibn Majah, An-Nasaa’i, Abu Daoud, and Ahmad). This supplication helps focus the heart and seek Allah’s protection.
Recitation and Length of Prayer
There is no fixed recitation, but it is recommended to recite longer portions of the Quran. The Prophet ﷺ would often recite lengthy verses, and his night prayer could extend for hours. Use a Quran app like Al Muslim Plus Quran to follow along with recitation and translation during your night prayer.
Concluding with Witr
Tahajjud is concluded with the Witr prayer, an odd-numbered rak’ah (1, 3, 5, etc.). The Prophet ﷺ said: « Make Witr the last of your prayer at night. » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). If you pray Witr before sleeping, you may still pray Tahajjud later without repeating Witr.
Practical Tips to Wake Up for Tahajjud
Consistency is key. Start with a small, manageable goal like two rak’ahs after waking up. Set an alarm for the last third of the night (use the Al Muslim Plus prayer times to know exactly when Fajr begins). Sleep early and avoid heavy meals before bed. Make sincere du’a to Allah to grant you the ability to wake up. The Prophet ﷺ advised: « If anyone fears that he will not wake up at the end of the night, let him offer Witr prayer at the beginning of the night. » (Narrated by Muslim).
The Role of Intention
Before sleeping, intend to wake up for Tahajjud. This intention itself is recorded as an act of worship. Even if you oversleep, you will be rewarded for your sincere intention. The Prophet ﷺ said: « Whoever goes to bed with the intention of waking up to pray at night, but sleep overcomes him, will have the reward of what he intended. »
Overcoming Laziness
Remind yourself of the immense rewards: forgiveness of sins, answered du’as, and closeness to Allah. Use a prayer tracker to monitor your consistency and motivate yourself with streaks.
Tahajjud for Spiritual Growth and Du’a
The night is a time when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and asks: « Who is calling upon Me that I may answer him? Who is asking from Me that I may give him? Who is seeking My forgiveness that I may forgive him? » (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim). Tahajjud is therefore the ideal time for heartfelt supplication. After praying, raise your hands and make du’a for yourself, your family, and the ummah. The Quran says: « And part of the night, prostrate thyself to Him; and glorify Him a long night through. » (Surah Al-Insaan, verse 26). Prostration is a moment of ultimate closeness, so prolong it with sincere supplication.
Combining Night Prayer with Quran Recitation
Reciting the Quran during Tahajjud deepens reflection. Use the Al Muslim Plus Quran with tafsir to understand the verses you recite. The night is the best time to ponder Allah’s words.
Tahajjud and Seeking Knowledge
The verse in Surah Az-Zumar links night worship with knowledge: « Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? » (Surah Az-Zumar, verse 9). Night prayer increases one’s insight and understanding. It is a means to become among the ‘endued with understanding.’
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Tahajjud and Qiyam al-Layl?
Tahajjud is a type of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer) that is performed after waking from sleep. Qiyam al-Layl is a broader term that includes any voluntary prayer at night, whether before or after sleeping.
How many rak’ahs are in Tahajjud?
There is no fixed number. The minimum is two rak’ahs, and the Prophet ﷺ commonly prayed 11 or 13 rak’ahs including Witr. You may pray as many as you wish, in sets of two.
What time should I pray Tahajjud?
The best time is the last third of the night, before Fajr. However, it can be prayed anytime after Isha until Fajr, preferably after waking from sleep.
Do I have to sleep before Tahajjud?
It is recommended to sleep first, as the word ‘Tahajjud’ implies waking from sleep. However, if you stay awake and pray, it is still considered Qiyam al-Layl and is rewarded.
Can I pray Tahajjud after Witr?
If you have already prayed Witr, you can still pray additional rak’ahs (without repeating Witr). However, it is better to make Witr the last prayer of the night.
What surahs should I recite in Tahajjud?
There is no specific surah. You may recite any portion of the Quran. Longer recitation is recommended, such as Surah Al-Mulk, Surah As-Sajdah, or the last ten surahs.
Can I pray Tahajjud in congregation?
It is permissible but not the norm. The Prophet ﷺ sometimes prayed night prayer with his family or companions, but he generally preferred to pray alone.
What if I cannot wake up for Tahajjud?
If you fear you may not wake up, you can pray Witr before sleeping and still receive reward. Also, set multiple alarms and make sincere intention before sleep.
Tahajjud is a powerful means of drawing closer to Allah, seeking forgiveness, and attaining spiritual elevation. Start small, be consistent, and witness the transformation in your faith. Download the Al Muslim Plus app to access accurate prayer times, Quran, and tools to help you maintain your night prayer routine. May Allah grant us all the ability to wake up for Tahajjud and accept our efforts.
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Sources vérifiées
Citations recoupées mot pour mot avec le corpus canonique (Coran / hadiths).
- Sourate Al-Muzzammil, verset 6
- Sourate Al-Israa, verset 79
- Sourate Al-Insaan, verset 26
- Sourate Al-Muzzammil, verset 2
- Sourate Az-Zumar, verset 9
- Hadith n°11261 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°11269 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°4830 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°5218 (Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°10905 (Narrated by Ibn Majah – An-Nasaa’i – Narrated by Abu Daoud – Narrated by Ahmad) — grade : Authentic hadith
- Hadith n°11278 (Narrated by Muslim) — grade : Authentic hadith