Alternative Spelling:
Tahajjud / Tahajud / Tahajud / Tahajud / Tahajjud
What is Tahajjud?
- Tahajjud is a voluntary night prayer in Islam, derived from the Arabic root hajada, meaning "to stay awake at night." The term Tahajjud specifically refers to prayers performed after waking up from sleep, typically in the last third of the night, and is considered a form of Qiyam al-Layl (standing in the night for worship).
- Theologically, Tahajjud holds a special place in Islamic spirituality, as it is highly recommended in the Qur’an and was regularly practiced by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is seen as a means to attain closeness to Allah, seek forgiveness, and demonstrate deep devotion beyond the obligatory prayers.
- Throughout Islamic history, scholars have emphasized the importance of Tahajjud, citing numerous hadiths where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged his followers to observe this prayer. While not obligatory, it has been regarded as a sign of strong faith and commitment, with many early Muslims and scholars making it a consistent part of their nightly routine.
- Tahajjud is often associated with profound spiritual benefits, including inner peace, humility, and a heightened sense of connection with Allah. The quiet and solitude of the night are believed to foster sincerity and reflection, making Tahajjud a time for personal supplication and spiritual growth.
- In contemporary practice, Muslims who observe Tahajjud set aside time during the night to wake up, perform ablution, and pray additional units of prayer (rak‘ahs), often followed by personal supplications. Despite modern challenges such as busy schedules, many believers strive to incorporate Tahajjud into their lives for its immense spiritual rewards and transformative impact.
Examples of Tahajjud
- Seeking Guidance: "Whenever I am faced with a difficult decision, I wake up before dawn to pray Tahajjud and ask Allah for clarity."
- Following the Sunnah: "It is reported that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) regularly performed Tahajjud, so I try to make it a habit in my own life."
- Praying for Loved Ones: "During times of hardship for my family, I make special duas during Tahajjud for their well-being."
- Seeking Forgiveness: "I use the quiet hours of Tahajjud to sincerely repent for my mistakes and seek Allah’s mercy."
- Spiritual Growth: "Many scholars recommend Tahajjud as a means to strengthen one’s connection with Allah and increase spirituality."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer, Tahajjud."
Sahih Muslim 1163 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Our Lord descends every night to the lowest heaven when one third of the night remains and says: 'Who will call upon Me, that I may answer him? Who will ask of Me, that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness, that I may forgive him?' referring to the time of Tahajjud."
Sahih Bukhari 1145 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "You should pray Tahajjud at night, for it was the practice of the righteous before you, and it brings you closer to your Lord, and it is an expiation for bad deeds and a deterrent from sin."
Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3549 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Tahajjud
What does Tahajjud mean in English?
Tahajjud means voluntary night prayer.
When should Muslims pray Tahajjud?
Muslims should pray Tahajjud after the obligatory Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer, typically in the last third of the night.
Is Tahajjud obligatory for Muslims?
Tahajjud is not obligatory but is a highly recommended Sunnah prayer performed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
How many rak'ahs are performed in Tahajjud?
Tahajjud can be prayed in a minimum of two rak'ahs and up to as many as one is able, with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) commonly praying eight rak'ahs followed by three rak'ahs of Witr.
What are the benefits of praying Tahajjud?
Praying Tahajjud brings spiritual closeness to Allah, forgiveness of sins, and acceptance of supplications, as emphasized in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
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