How to perform taraweeh in Ramadan?

Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal, deep reflection, and drawing closer to Allah. It is a month where the gates of mercy are opened, sins are forgiven, and prayers hold greater rewards. Among the most cherished acts of worship during this holy month is Taraweeh prayer, a special night prayer that offers peace, purification, and a connection with the Quran. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was known for his dedication to worship during Ramadan, increasing his prayers, charity, and devotion. He used to pray Taraweeh as part of Qiyam al-Layl, showing his followers how to perform Taraweeh in the best manner. Initially, he led his companions in congregation but later continued it individually, fearing it might become obligatory upon the believers.

Whether performed in congregation at the mosque or in the comfort of your home, learning how is taraweeh prayer performed correctly allows every Muslim to maximize their spiritual rewards in Ramadan

What is taraweeh prayer?

Taraweeh is a form of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer) performed exclusively during Ramadan. The term “Taraweeh” comes from the Arabic root word “Raaha” (to rest or relax) because it includes short pauses between sets of prayers. Taraweeh is performed after the Isha prayer and before Witr.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged its observance, saying:
“Whoever stands (for prayer) in Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 37)

Understanding the ruling of taraweeh in Islam

While it is not an obligatory act of worship, it is considered a highly recommended Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah), meaning that performing it brings great rewards, but skipping it does not incur sin.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself prayed Taraweeh in congregation for a few nights, but then he stopped leading it publicly, fearing that people might assume it was obligatory (Fardh). This shows that Taraweeh was left as a voluntary yet highly rewarding act of worship.

Taraweeh then became a communal tradition, how? After the passing of the Prophet (peace be upon him), the prayer remained a personal act of worship until the time of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA). Upon observing that some people were praying Taraweeh alone while others prayed in small groups, he decided to unify them under one Imam, reviving it as a communal practice in mosques. This decision established the modern practice of Taraweeh, where Muslims gather in mosques worldwide to pray in congregation.

Why is taraweeh significant in Ramadan?

Taraweeh prayer is deeply significant in Ramadan, offering numerous spiritual, mental, and physical benefits.

Key reasons why Taraweeh is an essential act of worship during Ramadan:

• Strengthening the Connection with Allah (SWT)

A time for deep spiritual reflection and renewal, allowing Muslims to seek forgiveness and blessings while fulfilling the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him). It also encourages consistency in Qiyam al-Layl (night prayers).

• Developing Focus, Discipline, and Patience

This practice requires commitment and dedication, helping believers cultivate self-discipline and mindfulness. It encourages effective time management, ensuring a balance between worship, daily responsibilities, and personal commitments.

• Strengthening the Muslim Community

Taraweeh prayer is a unique opportunity to foster unity and brotherhood, as Muslims come together in congregational prayer at mosques. It encourages social bonds among worshippers, reinforcing a shared sense of faith and devotion. The collective atmosphere of Taraweeh enhances the spiritual experience, reminding believers of the importance of community in Islam.

• Increasing Engagement with the Quran

A means of deepening the connection with the words of Allah (SWT), as many strive to complete the recitation of the Quran during Ramadan. Whether through listening to the Imam’s recitation or reading individually, Taraweeh allows Muslims to reflect on divine guidance and strengthen their understanding of Islamic teachings.

Taraweeh in congregation vs. alone

Taraweeh can be performed both in congregation at the mosque or individually at home, each offering unique benefits. Praying in congregation allows worshippers to experience the spiritual energy of communal prayer, fostering a sense of unity and strengthening ties within the Muslim community. It also provides an opportunity to listen to the Quran being recited by an Imam, which can enhance one’s understanding and engagement with its meanings. 

On the other hand, praying Taraweeh alone offers flexibility, allowing individuals to pray at their own pace and reflect deeply on their recitation. This can be particularly beneficial for those who prefer a more personal form of worship. While both options are valid and rewarding, many scholars encourage praying in congregation when possible, as it revives the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and carries the added benefit of standing together in devotion. 

How can a woman pray taraweeh at home?

Women praying Taraweeh at home follow the same method as they do for other prayers, with the key consideration being the number of raka’at. Taraweeh is performed in sets of two raka’at, meaning a woman can pray two raka’at, followed by another two, and continue in this manner for as many raka’at as she wishes. There is no fixed number, but it is common to pray eight or twenty raka’at, followed by Witr prayer. Praying at home allows women to set their own pace, recite from the Quran at their comfort, and engage in personal reflection and supplication. 

How to perform taraweeh at home: number of raka’at

​The number of raka’at (units of prayer) in Taraweeh has been a subject of discussion among scholars, leading to varying practices:​

• Eight Raka’at: Some traditions indicate that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performed eight raka’at for Taraweeh. This practice is supported by certain narrations and is followed by some communities.​ 
• Twenty Raka’at: During the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), the practice of performing twenty raka’at in congregation was established. This became a common tradition in many parts of the Muslim world and is upheld by various Islamic schools of thought.

How is taraweeh prayer performed? Things to consider

• Time of Prayer: Taraweeh is performed after Isha prayer and continues until before Fajr. Many choose to pray it immediately after Isha, while others delay it to later in the night. 
• Number of Raka’at: There is no fixed number of raka’at, and scholarly opinions vary. Some narrations mention eight raka’at, while others support twelve or twenty raka’at. The key is to pray in sets of two raka’at and follow it with Witr prayer. 
• Praying in Congregation or Alone: Taraweeh can be performed individually at home or in congregation at the mosque. Praying in congregation is a well-established tradition that enhances the spiritual atmosphere, while praying at home offers flexibility and personal reflection. 
• Recitation of the Quran: The Quran is recited during Taraweeh, with many mosques completing one Juz’ per night to finish the entire Quran in Ramadan. Those praying at home can recite from memory or hold a Mushaf (Quran) while praying. 
• Pace and Focus: Taraweeh is meant to be prayed with devotion, so it’s recommended to maintain a balanced and mindful pace.

How to perform taraweeh step by step?

1. Prepare for Prayer by Performing Wudu (ablution) to be in a state of purity, wearing clean and modest clothing suitable for prayer, and finding a quiet and comfortable space to pray, free from distractions. 
2. Quietly make the intention in your heart to pray Taraweeh and start the prayer, taking the normal correct position of praying. 
3. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening Chapter of the Quran), then recite any short or long Surah from the Quran. 
4. Perform Ruku (Bowing Position) by saying “Allahu Akbar” and bowing into Ruku. As you bow, say “Subha Rabby al-Azeem” and repeat it three times. 
5. Then, stand back up, and as you do, say “Samia Allah li mn hamid” (Allah hears those who praise Him). After that, say “Rabbana w laka al-hamd” (oh allah, all praise belongs to You) 
6. Perform Sujood (Prostration) by saying “Allahu Akbar” and going into Sujood. Recite “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” three times. 
7. Sit briefly, then perform a second Sujood, repeating the same recitation. 
8. Stand up for the second raka’ah, take the beginning position and repeat Steps 3-6. 
9. After completing the second raka’ah, sit and recite Tashahhud (At-Tahiyyat). Finish by turning your head to the right, saying “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah,” then to the left, repeating “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah. 
10. To continue with more raka’at (e.g., 8, 12, or 20), stand up and repeat from Step 2

Note that you need to pray the 4 rakat of Ishaa before praying taraweeh.

Mistakes to avoid in taraweeh prayer

• Rushing through the prayer: Performing Taraweeh too quickly reduces focus and spiritual benefit. It should be prayed with calmness and devotion. 
• Skipping Isha prayer: Taraweeh is only valid after completing Isha; skipping it invalidates the prayer. 
• Neglecting Tajweed and Quran recitation rules: If reciting from memory, ensure correct pronunciation and recitation of Surahs. To avoid this, you can join Noor Institute’s online islamic courses that are designed to teach you correct recitation and tajweed, ensuring you recite smoothly and correctly. 
• Not praying in sets of two raka’at: Taraweeh should always be prayed in units of two raka’at. 
• Skipping Witr prayer: Witr is strongly recommended after Taraweeh and should not be neglected.

Holding the Quran while praying taraweeh

There are different opinions among scholars regarding holding the Quran while performing Taraweeh prayer, especially for those who do not have much of the Quran memorized.

According to the Hanbali, Maliki, and Shafi’i schools of thought, it is permissible to hold a copy of the Quran (Mushaf) during voluntary prayers, including Taraweeh. This also applies to digital copies on mobile devices or tablets. Even an Imam leading the prayer is allowed to hold the Quran while reciting.

The Shafi’i school emphasizes that while holding the Quran, excessive movement should be avoided, as too much movement could invalidate the prayer.

There is also a difference of opinion within the Hanafi school. Some Hanafi scholars state that holding the Quran while praying is impermissible, while others consider it permissible but disliked (Makruh).

What duaa to recite after taraweeh?

There is no specific du’a that must be recited after completing Taraweeh prayer. However, Muslims are encouraged to make any supplication of their choice. This can include du’as from the Quran or Du’as from the Sunnah, such as seeking forgiveness, mercy, and guidance.

A typical prayer you might say after Tarawih is: “Rabbana atina fi al-donya hasanah wa fi al-akhirah hasanah wa qina ‘azab al-nar” this means, “Our Lord, give us what is good in this world and what is good in the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire” (from the Surah Al-Baqarah).

5 creative ways to engage kids in taraweeh prayer

1. Create a special prayer space: Set up a designated prayer area at home with colorful prayer mats, lanterns, and decorations to make it feel inviting and exciting for children.
2. Use storytelling to teach about Taraweeh: Share inspiring stories about the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the importance of Taraweeh to help children understand its significance in a fun and engaging way.
3. Introduce a reward system: Motivate kids by using sticker charts, small treats, or verbal encouragement after completing a set number of raka’at to make prayer feel like an achievement.
4. Encourage participation in recitation: Let kids recite short surahs they have memorized or follow along in a Mushaf to keep them engaged and involved in the prayer.
5. Keep the prayer short and flexible: Start with a few raka’at and gradually increase, allowing breaks if needed to ensure they enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed.

Quran recitation plan for taraweeh in Ramadan

One effective approach is to recite one-fifth of a Hizb (approximately one page) in each raka’ah. This method ensures a balanced pace, allowing the completion of one full Juz’ per night when praying twenty raka’at. Since a Juz’ consists of eight Hizb, reciting a quarter of a Hizb per raka’ah would complete a Juz’ in only eight raka’at. If praying twelve raka’at, this method would result in completing one and a half Juz’ per night. To guarantee that you finish the Quran in 30 days, you can modify the length of the recitation for each raka’ah according to the number of raka’at you offer. This approach maintains spiritual engagement while allowing for meaningful reflection on the Quran’s verses throughout the blessed month.

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Conclusion

Understanding how to perform Taraweeh allows Muslims to make the most of Ramadan’s spiritual blessings. Whether praying at home or in congregation, Taraweeh serves as a powerful way to seek forgiveness, strengthen faith, and engage with the Quran. By following a structured approach, ensuring sincerity in prayer, and maintaining focus, believers can experience the true essence of Taraweeh during this blessed month.

For those seeking to enhance their understanding of Islamic teachings, Noor Institute provides a structured and authentic learning experience. With expert scholars offering courses in various branches of Islamic knowledge, it helps students of all levels deepen their connection to Islam. Whether you are looking to enhance your Quran recitation or gain a comprehensive understanding of Islamic practices, Noor Institute is your trusted guide on this journey of spiritual growth.

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Frequently asked questions 

• If I missed a couple raka’at during taraweeh, can I pray witr with the imam and finish the rest of taraweeh afterwards?

Yes, you can pray Witr with the imam and then complete the missed Taraweeh raka’at afterward. However, if you prefer, you can delay Witr and pray it at the end of your personal Taraweeh.

 

• Is Taraweeh 8 or 20 raka’at?

Both are correct. There is no fixed number, and both opinions exist based on different traditions. Some follow the practice of 8 raka’at with the Prophet ﷺ, while others follow the 20 raka’at established in Islamic history.