Table of Contents
Introduction to Taraweeh
What is Taraweeh?
A Brief History of Taraweeh
3.1 Taraweeh in the Time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
3.2 Taraweeh and Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab
3.3 Origin of the Word “Taraweeh”
Why Taraweeh is Important
4.1 Getting Closer to Allah
4.2 Forgiveness of Sins
4.3 Praying as a Community
4.4 Praying with Family
4.5 Physical and Emotional Benefits
When and How to Pray Taraweeh
5.1 The Timing of Taraweeh
5.2 The Role of Witr Prayer
5.3 Breaks in Taraweeh
How Many Rak‘ahs?
6.1 Those Who Pray 8 Rak‘ahs
6.2 Those Who Pray 20 Rak‘ahs
6.3 Sincerity Matters Most
Step-by-Step Guide to Taraweeh
7.1 Preparing Yourself
7.2 Praying in the Mosque
7.3 Praying at Home
Reading the Quran During Taraweeh
8.1 Styles of Recitation
8.2 Completing the Whole Quran (Khatm)
8.3 Personal Reflection and Memorization
Dua in Taraweeh and Ramadan
9.1 Importance of Dua
9.2 Times for Dua During Taraweeh
9.3 Recommended Supplications for Taraweeh
Health Benefits and Discipline
10.1 Gentle Exercise
10.2 Clearing the Mind
10.3 Building Good Habits
Different Cultures, Different Ways
11.1 Various Lengths of Recitation
11.2 Cultural Practices
11.3 Shia Perspective
Common Challenges
12.1 Tiredness and Sleep Patterns
12.2 Balancing Work or School
12.3 Women, Children, and Seniors
12.4 Staying Focused
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
13.1 Is Taraweeh Obligatory?
13.2 Should It Be 8 or 20 Rak‘ahs?
13.3 Must We Finish the Quran?
13.4 Can Women Join Taraweeh at the Mosque?
13.5 How Long Does Taraweeh Usually Last?
13.6 What If I Skip a Night?
13.7 How to Maintain Focus?
13.8 Is Taraweeh the Same as Tahajjud?
13.9 Can I Pray Alone?
13.10 When Should I Pray Witr?
1. Introduction to Taraweeh
Ramadan is a special month for Muslims. It is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. They avoid eating or drinking during the daytime and focus on worship, good deeds, and self-improvement.
When evening comes, Muslims break their fast with a meal called iftar. After that, they often go to the mosque or stay at home to pray a special prayer called Taraweeh. Taraweeh happens only during the nights of Ramadan. It is not one of the five daily required prayers, but it is highly recommended and deeply cherished by Muslims everywhere.
In this guide, we will talk about what Taraweeh is, where it comes from, why it is important, how to perform it, and how it benefits the body, mind, and soul. We will also answer common questions in a FAQ section near the end. This guide is written in simple language to make understanding easier for all readers.
2. What is Taraweeh?
Taraweeh is a voluntary prayer that Muslims offer each night in Ramadan, after the last daily prayer called ‘Isha. The word “Taraweeh” is Arabic and means “to rest or relax,” because people usually take short breaks in between sets of prayer.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended praying extra prayers at night, especially in Ramadan, for the sake of earning more rewards and coming closer to Allah (God). Although it is not required like the five daily prayers, Taraweeh holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims. It helps them focus on God, ask for forgiveness, and remember the teachings of the Quran.
3. A Brief History of Taraweeh
3.1 Taraweeh in the Time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
During the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), there were moments when he prayed extra night prayers in Ramadan in the mosque. Some people joined him, forming a small congregation. Over a few nights, the group got bigger. But the Prophet then chose not to continue leading these prayers in congregation. He was concerned that people might think it was an obligation, which could make it harder on them in the future.
Still, many of the Prophet’s close companions continued praying extra night prayers at home or in smaller groups. This kind of voluntary night prayer in Ramadan became an established tradition, even though it was not seen as a requirement.
3.2 Taraweeh and Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab
Years after the Prophet passed away, Umar ibn al-Khattab became the second Caliph. He noticed that many Muslims were praying these extra prayers separately in small groups. He felt it would be good to bring them together under one imam (prayer leader) to create unity and a greater sense of community. So, he encouraged Muslims to gather and pray these extra rak‘ahs (units of prayer) in a group. This is often seen as the official start of Taraweeh as we know it today.
3.3 Origin of the Word “Taraweeh”
During the Prophet’s time, the extra prayers in Ramadan were usually called “Qiyam al-Layl” (night standing) or simply extra voluntary prayers in Ramadan. The word “Taraweeh” came later from the Arabic root meaning “rest.” Because the prayer can be long, people liked to rest and catch their breath after every few sets of rak‘ahs.
4. Why Taraweeh is Important
4.1 Getting Closer to Allah
Taraweeh is a direct way to strengthen one’s bond with Allah. During these special prayers, Muslims hear verses from the Quran, reflect on their meanings, and stay connected to their faith. Many feel a sense of peace when they stand in prayer at night, away from daily distractions.
4.2 Forgiveness of Sins
There is a famous saying of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that if a person stands in prayer during Ramadan out of sincere faith and hope for reward, their past sins can be forgiven. Taraweeh is a main opportunity for Muslims to seek this mercy and forgiveness from Allah. While we all make mistakes, night prayers in Ramadan can help wash away these errors.
4.3 Praying as a Community
In most places, Taraweeh is prayed in congregation at the mosque. People from all ages and backgrounds gather to worship side by side. This togetherness can create strong community feelings. It is a time of unity when rich and poor, young and old, stand equally, all aiming to please God.
4.4 Praying with Family
Some Muslims prefer to pray Taraweeh at home, especially if they have young children or find it difficult to travel to the mosque. Praying as a family can bring everyone closer together. Many parents encourage their children to join, hoping they will learn to love prayer and practice Islam as they grow up.
4.5 Physical and Emotional Benefits
Taraweeh is not just spiritual; it can also help the body and mind. Standing, bowing, and prostrating (sujood) across many rak‘ahs offers gentle physical movement. Also, focusing on the recitation of the Quran can calm the mind, reduce stress, and help with emotional well-being.
5. When and How to Pray Taraweeh
5.1 The Timing of Taraweeh
Muslims pray Taraweeh after the ‘Isha prayer, which is the last required prayer of the day. It can be prayed any time between ‘Isha and Fajr (the dawn prayer). However, most mosques start Taraweeh soon after ‘Isha. Usually, there is a short break after ‘Isha, and then the imam begins leading Taraweeh. Depending on how many rak‘ahs are prayed and how slow or fast the recitation is, it can last from half an hour to two hours.
5.2 The Role of Witr Prayer
Witr is a highly recommended voluntary prayer prayed after Taraweeh (though in some schools, it is considered wajib, meaning “necessary”). It has an odd number of rak‘ahs (often 1 or 3). Many mosques pray Witr together right after finishing Taraweeh, so most people do not miss it. Some people, especially those who plan to wake up later for Tahajjud (another late-night prayer), might choose to delay Witr until just before Fajr.
5.3 Breaks in Taraweeh
The word “Taraweeh” comes from the idea of taking small pauses. Generally, after every two or four rak‘ahs, there is a brief rest. This gives people time to catch their breath, stretch their legs, or make personal prayers (du‘a). Some mosques use these short breaks to share a short sermon, read a hadith, or recite special praises of Allah.
6. How Many Rak‘ahs?
6.1 Those Who Pray 8 Rak‘ahs
Some Muslims believe Taraweeh should be only eight rak‘ahs, based on certain hadiths that describe the Prophet’s own practice of praying 8 rak‘ahs of night prayer plus 3 rak‘ahs of Witr. They feel this number closely follows the Prophet’s tradition.
6.2 Those Who Pray 20 Rak‘ahs
Other Muslims pray 20 rak‘ahs, following the example set during the time of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab. Many mosques around the world, especially in regions with strong Hanafi, Shafi‘i, or Hanbali influence, pray 20 rak‘ahs. In some areas, they might even pray more than that, like 36 in certain Maliki communities, but 20 is the most common after 8.
6.3 Sincerity Matters Most
Whether people pray 8 or 20 or another number is not the main point. Scholars generally agree that Taraweeh is voluntary (a Sunnah prayer), so the real focus should be on praying sincerely, with humility and concentration. This means that no one should argue or look down on others for how many rak‘ahs they do. All forms are acceptable as long as the person prays with faith and devotion.
7. Step-by-Step Guide to Taraweeh
7.1 Preparing Yourself
Make or Renew Wudu (Ablution): Ensure you are physically clean.
Dress Properly: Wear modest and clean clothes.
Find a Quiet or Orderly Place: If you are at home, pick a spot without distractions. If you go to the mosque, arrive a bit early to find a good place.
Have the Right Intention (Niyyah): Silently set your intention in your heart to pray Taraweeh for the sake of Allah.
7.2 Praying in the Mosque
Pray ‘Isha: Join the congregation for ‘Isha.
Short Break: Sometimes there is a small gap after ‘Isha.
Taraweeh Begins: The imam recites out loud. Everyone follows.
Sets of Rak‘ahs: Usually, people pray two rak‘ahs at a time, then the imam says the tasleem (ending of prayer). Depending on the local tradition, you might do 8 or 20 rak‘ahs in total.
Brief Breaks: After every couple of sets, there might be a short rest.
Witr Prayer: At the end, the congregation prays Witr.
7.3 Praying at Home
Pray ‘Isha First: Taraweeh is prayed after ‘Isha, so do not skip the obligatory ‘Isha.
Recite from Memory or Read from a Copy of the Quran: Many scholars say it is okay to hold the Quran while praying.
Choose the Number of Rak‘ahs: You can do 8, 20, or any other amount that you can manage with sincerity.
Take Small Breaks: Taraweeh is meant to have short rests, so you can pause to relax or reflect.
Pray Witr: End with 1 or 3 rak‘ahs of Witr if you do not plan on doing more prayers later at night.
8. Reading the Quran During Taraweeh
8.1 Styles of Recitation
Imams often recite the Quran in a melodious manner. They follow tajwid rules, which govern how each letter and word should be pronounced. Some imams recite faster, while others recite slowly, allowing listeners to fully reflect on the meaning. Either way is acceptable as long as the rules of tajwid are observed.
8.2 Completing the Whole Quran (Khatm)
It is common in many mosques to aim for one complete reading (khatm) of the Quran during Ramadan. There are 30 parts (juz’) of the Quran, so the imam might recite one part each night. By the end of Ramadan, the entire Quran is finished. This is not required by Islamic law, but it is a much-loved tradition. If an imam or community cannot finish the whole Quran, it is still fine to recite shorter portions.
8.3 Personal Reflection and Memorization
Taraweeh is a great time to deepen your relationship with the Quran. Even if you do not understand Arabic, you can read translations before or after the prayer, or follow along in your mind if you know some of the verses. This helps you connect more deeply to the recitation. Some people also use Ramadan to memorize new surahs (chapters) of the Quran.
Recommended Dua for Taraweeh
Dua for Guidance, Protection, and Blessings
Arabic Text | Transliteration | English Translation |
اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنَا فِيمَنْ هَدَيْتَ، وَعَافِنَا فِيمَنْ عَافَيْتَ، وَتَوَلَّنَا فِيمَنْ تَوَلَّيْتَ | Allahumma ihdina fiman hadayt, wa 'afina fiman 'afayt, wa tawallana fiman tawallayt | “O Allah, guide us among those You have guided, grant us well-being among those You have granted well-being, and take us into Your care among those You have taken into Your care.” |
اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنَا مِنَ الَّذِينَ هَدَيْتَ وَهُمْ يَسْتَمِعُونَ الْقَوْلَ فَيَتَّبِعُونَ أَحْسَنَهُ | Allahumma ij'alna min alladhina hadayta wa hum yastami'un al-qawla faya_ttabi'una ahsanahu | “O Allah, make us among those whom You have guided, who listen to the word and follow the best of it.” |
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْهُدَى وَالتُّقَى وَالْعَفَافَ وَالْغِنَى | Allahumma inni asaluka al-huda wa at-tuqa wa al-'afafa wa al-ghina | “O Allah, I seek guidance, piety, chastity, and self-sufficiency from You.” |
Dua for Forgiveness
Arabic Text | Transliteration | English Translation |
رَبَّنَا اغْفِرْ لَنَا ذُنُوبَنَا وَكَفِّرْ عَنَّا سَيِّئَاتِنَا | Rabbana ighfir lana dhunubanā wa kaffir 'annā sayyi'ātinā | “Our Lord, forgive us our sins and pardon our misdeeds.” |
اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَلِوَالِدَيَّ وَلِجَمِيعِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ | Allahumma ighfir li wa liwalidayya wa lijamee'i al-mu'mineen | “O Allah, forgive me, my parents, and all the believers.” |
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْعَفْوَ وَالْعَافِيَةَ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ | Allahumma inni asaluka al-'afwa wal-'afiya fid-dunya wal-akhirah | “O Allah, I ask You for pardon and well-being in this world and in the Hereafter.” |
Words of Remembrance
Arabic Text | Transliteration | English Translation |
سُبْحَانَ ذِي الْمُلْكِ وَالْمَلَكُوتِ سُبْحَانَ ذِي الْعِزَّةِ وَالْعَظْمَةِ وَالْهَيْبَةِ وَالْقُدْرَةِ وَالْكِبْرِيَاءِ وَالْجَبَرُوتِ سُبْحَانَ الْمَلِكِ الْحَيِّ الَّذِيْ لا يَنامُ وَلا يَمُوتُ. سُبُّوْحٌ قُدُّوْسٌ رَبُّنا وَرَبُّ المْلائِكَةِ وَالرُّوْحِ اللَّهُمَّ أَجِرْنا مِنَ النّارِ يا مُجيرُ يا مُجيرُ يا مُجيرُ | Subhanazil mulki wal-malakooti Subhanazial 'izzati wal-azmah wal-haybat wal-qudrati wal-kibriya wal-jabrooti Subhanal maliki al-hayyil la yānamu wala yamutu. Subbuhoon quddoosun rabbuna warabbul-mala'ikatir-ruuh. Allahumma ajirna minan-nar ya mujiru ya mujiru ya mujiru | “Glory is to the Possessor of Sovereignty and Dominion, glory is to the Possessor of Might, Greatness, Reverence, Power, Pride, and Majesty, glory is to the King, the Living who neither sleeps nor dies. Exalted and Holy are You, our Lord, and the Lord of the angels and the souls. O Allah, protect us from the Hellfire. O Granter of refuge, O Granter of refuge, O Granter of refuge.” |
9. Health Benefits and Discipline
9.1 Gentle Exercise
Taraweeh includes a series of motions: standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting. Doing multiple rak‘ahs can gently exercise the muscles and joints, especially for those who remain seated at a desk or do not get much exercise otherwise. While not a substitute for regular fitness routines, it is still helpful for physical health.
9.2 Clearing the Mind
Night prayers often bring calmness after a busy day. Listening to or reciting the Quran can soothe the mind, lower stress, and help believers feel more peaceful. Many Muslims say that after Taraweeh, they experience a lighter heart and clearer thoughts.
9.3 Building Good Habits
Ramadan in general trains you to have discipline. You fast during the day, controlling your appetite and other desires. At night, you push yourself to pray more than usual. This creates a schedule of spiritual activity that can carry over even after Ramadan ends. You learn to plan your time carefully, include worship in your daily life, and manage your sleep and meal times.
10. Different Cultures, Different Ways
10.1 Various Lengths of Recitation
Because Muslims live all over the world, Taraweeh can look different depending on the country or community. For example, in some places, the imam reads the Quran very quickly, finishing 20 rak‘ahs in about half an hour. In others, the imam recites slowly and includes reflections, so Taraweeh might last more than an hour or two.
10.2 Cultural Practices
Middle East & North Africa: People often join large congregations. They may have a spiritual talk during the breaks, and the recitation can follow specific famous styles.
South Asia: Completing the entire Quran is very common, with many mosques finishing one juz’ (part) each night. Breaks are usually short and might have extra prayers or Islamic reminders.
Western Countries: Mosques might cater to diverse groups. Some may offer a shorter Taraweeh for those who have work or school early in the morning, and a longer session for people who want to hear more Quran. Also, there might be explanations in English or other local languages, especially for children or converts.
10.3 Shia Perspective
Shia Muslims generally do not pray Taraweeh in a large group the way Sunni Muslims do. They consider it an extra prayer that began after the time of the Prophet. Shia Muslims may still perform night prayers (often called Tahajjud or Qiyam al-Layl) individually during Ramadan, but it is not usually practiced as a congregational ritual.
11. Common Challenges
11.1 Tiredness and Sleep Patterns
People often find themselves feeling tired during Ramadan because of fasting all day and standing in long prayers at night. Many worshippers also wake up early for suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). This can disrupt normal sleep schedules. Some people take afternoon naps or go to bed earlier to manage tiredness. Balance is key.
11.2 Balancing Work or School
Muslims in non-Muslim-majority countries often do not get special holidays during Ramadan. They still have to work or attend classes. Some mosques adjust the speed of Taraweeh to end earlier for people who must wake up early. Others might provide two sessions: one with fewer rak‘ahs, one with more.
11.3 Women, Children, and Seniors
Some mosques are not well-equipped for women or children, lacking proper space, or they might be too crowded. Others may not have easy access for seniors or people with disabilities. Thankfully, many communities are working to make mosques more welcoming and accessible to everyone. If going to the mosque is difficult, people can still pray Taraweeh at home.
11.4 Staying Focused
Maintaining concentration (khushu‘) during long prayers can be challenging. Minds may wander, and legs might get tired. To stay focused:
Think about the meaning of the Quran.
Watch a translation video before or after prayer to understand the verses.
Keep your eyes on the place of prostration.
Make personal du‘a during short breaks.
12. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
12.1 Is Taraweeh Obligatory?
No. Taraweeh is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah, meaning it is strongly recommended but not mandatory. Skipping it is not a sin like skipping a required prayer, but you miss out on great blessings and spiritual growth.
12.2 Should It Be 8 or 20 Rak‘ahs?
Either is fine. Some evidence points to 8 rak‘ahs from the Prophet’s practice. Other evidence points to 20 rak‘ahs from Umar’s time. In both cases, sincerity is key. Most mosques choose one format, but you can also pick what you can handle best.
12.3 Must We Finish the Quran?
No. It is a common and beloved tradition, but not a must. Some people only recite certain parts or surahs each night. The important thing is praying with a sincere heart and focusing on your connection with Allah.
12.4 Can Women Join Taraweeh at the Mosque?
Yes, they can. Women prayed in the Prophet’s mosque in his time, although certain conditions of modesty and respect apply. However, if it is more convenient or comfortable, women can also pray Taraweeh at home. Both choices are allowed.
12.5 How Long Does Taraweeh Usually Last?
It can range from 30 minutes to over 2 hours. This depends on the number of rak‘ahs and the speed of recitation. Some communities also include short talks or supplications between sets of rak‘ahs, which can extend the total time.
12.6 What If I Skip a Night?
Because Taraweeh is not obligatory, missing a night is not considered sinful. Still, each night is a chance for reward and spiritual upliftment. If you miss a night due to work, health, or other reasons, you can simply continue the next day.
12.7 How to Maintain Focus?
Review the meaning of the verses before prayer.
Use the breaks to make personal prayers or reflect on what you heard.
Stand in a relaxed but attentive posture.
Remind yourself you are in the presence of Allah.
12.8 Is Taraweeh the Same as Tahajjud?
They are both voluntary night prayers (Qiyam al-Layl), but Taraweeh specifically refers to the extra prayers performed in Ramadan after ‘Isha. Tahajjud can be prayed any night of the year, usually in the last third of the night. Many Muslims in Ramadan pray Taraweeh earlier, and if they can, they also wake up for Tahajjud later.
12.9 Can I Pray Alone?
Yes, you can. Praying in congregation at the mosque is encouraged, but if that’s not possible, praying Taraweeh alone (or with family) at home is perfectly acceptable and still very rewarding.
12.10 When Should I Pray Witr?
Most people pray Witr immediately after Taraweeh in the mosque. If you plan to wake up later for additional night prayers (like Tahajjud), some scholars say it’s better to delay Witr until just before Fajr. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Make Witr your last prayer at night.”
13. Conclusion
Taraweeh is a special prayer Muslims do each night during Ramadan. Even though it is voluntary, it has a big place in the heart of the Muslim community. It began during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), grew stronger under Caliph Umar’s leadership, and is now practiced in countless mosques and homes all over the world.
Why do Muslims love Taraweeh? It is a source of closeness to Allah, a time to hear the Quran, and a chance to ask for forgiveness of sins. It builds friendships and unity when prayed in large groups, while also nurturing family bonds when prayed at home together. Plus, it comes with physical health benefits and emotional comfort, helping believers find peace and balance in their busy lives.
The number of rak‘ahs can vary—some do 8, others do 20. The length of the prayer can be short or long, depending on the imam’s recitation style or the community’s choice. Yet none of these differences should cause arguments. Instead, they show the beautiful diversity within the global Muslim ummah (community).
People do sometimes face challenges, like sleep issues, busy work schedules, or taking care of children. But with a bit of planning—maybe a power nap in the afternoon or choosing a shorter session—most believers manage to keep Taraweeh in their routine. The spiritual benefits far outweigh the tiredness. Many find that their faith feels stronger, their hearts feel lighter, and their minds are calmer after a night of prayer.
In Ramadan, as the nights pass, each Taraweeh prayer becomes part of a deeply meaningful journey. These prayers help Muslims reconnect with God’s words, shaping their hearts and guiding them to be more patient, generous, and kind. When Ramadan ends, the experience of Taraweeh remains in the memory, prompting believers to maintain some elements of night prayer or extra worship throughout the rest of the year.
Whether you are new to Islam, rediscovering your faith, or simply curious about Muslim practices, Taraweeh is a powerful example of devotion in action. It shows how worship can unite people, transform hearts, and bring light into night hours that might otherwise be spent in ordinary activities. By embracing Taraweeh, believers enrich their fasting days with blessed nights, making Ramadan a complete and holistic month of reflection, gratitude, and love for Allah.