Tarawih prayer is a special voluntary (nafl) prayer performed during the nights of Ramadan. It holds a significant place in the spiritual life of Muslims, offering a unique opportunity to deepen one’s connection with the Qur’an and experience the abundant blessings of Ramadan. In this detailed article, we will explore the fiqh of Tarawih prayer by examining its historical background, evidences from the Qur’an and Sunnah, methods of performance, variations in the number of rak’ahs, and the views of different Islamic schools of thought, all supported by relevant scholarly sources.

Definition and Importance of Tarawih Prayer

Tarawih prayer is observed after the obligatory Isha (night) prayer during Ramadan. It is typically performed in congregational settings, although it may also be offered individually. The term “Tarawih” is derived from the Arabic root T-R-W-H, meaning “to rest” or “to relax,” referring to the short breaks taken between sets of rak’ahs during the prayer (Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, Tarawih Section).

The significance of Tarawih prayer lies in its role as a means of spiritual purification and a vehicle for Qur’anic recitation. In the blessed month of Ramadan—when the Qur’an was first revealed—this prayer helps Muslims to immerse themselves in the divine words, foster self-discipline, and strengthen communal bonds through collective worship (Nevevi, Al-Macmu‘, Tarawih Chapter).

Historical Background and Evidences

The Prophet’s (PBUH) Practice

The roots of Tarawih prayer can be traced back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). It is reported that on some nights during Ramadan, the Prophet would offer voluntary prayers in the mosque. Although he did not institutionalize Tarawih as a permanent congregational practice—likely to avoid imposing a burden on his community—he did pray individually and set the example for later generations (Bukhari, Tarawih, 1; Muslim, Salat ul-Musafirien, 42).

The Era of Umar (RA)

During the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), the practice of Tarawih was revived and organized as a congregational prayer. Umar encouraged the community to gather under one imam in the mosque to perform Tarawih collectively. He is famously reported to have said, “How wonderful is this innovation!” referring to the unity and discipline that the congregational Tarawih fostered (Bukhari, Tarawih, 2; Malik, Al-Muwatta, Ramadan Nights Section). This institutionalization played a key role in establishing Tarawih as a cherished Ramadan tradition.

The Ruling on Tarawih Prayer

Tarawih prayer is considered a sunnah mu’akkadah—a highly recommended practice—by the vast majority of Islamic scholars. This means that while it is not obligatory (fard), neglecting it is generally seen as a missed opportunity for spiritual reward.

• Hanafi School:
  The Hanafi school advocates for performing 20 rak’ahs of Tarawih in congregation as a sunnah mu’akkadah.
  (Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, Tarawih Section)
• Shafi’i and Hanbali Schools:
  Scholars in these schools typically favor the 20 rak’ahs method but also acknowledge that offering 8 rak’ahs is permissible. The emphasis is placed on consistency and sincerity in worship.
• Maliki School:
  Maliki scholars also prefer 20 rak’ahs but allow flexibility in the number of rak’ahs based on community practices and individual circumstances.
  (Malik, Al-Muwatta, Ramadan Nights Section)

The consensus across the schools is that Tarawih is a virtuous practice that enhances the spiritual experience of Ramadan, whether performed in congregation or individually.

The Number of Rak’ahs and Method of Performance

Variations in Rak’ah Count

There is diversity in the number of rak’ahs observed in Tarawih prayer:

1. 20 Rak’ahs:
   This is the most common practice, especially among the Hanafi and many Shafi’i communities. It is based on the practice established during Umar’s time and the reports from the companions such as Jabir ibn Abdullah (RA) and Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA).
   (Beyhaki, Sunan al-Kubra, Tarawih Section)
2. 8 Rak’ahs:
   Some narrations indicate that the Prophet (PBUH) prayed 8 rak’ahs during the night. Several scholars from the Shafi’i, Hanbali, and Maliki schools hold that offering 8 rak’ahs is acceptable. The primary concern is that the prayer is performed with consistency and devotion, rather than the exact number of rak’ahs.
   (Bukhari, Tahajjud, 4)

Method of Performance

Tarawih prayer is typically offered with short breaks (teravih pauses) after every 4 rak’ahs. This method provides worshippers with moments of rest and reflection, enhancing concentration and the overall spiritual atmosphere.

• Consecutive Takbirs:
  In many traditions, extra takbirs (additional glorifications of Allah) are recited at the beginning of each set of 4 rak’ahs. The hands are raised with each takbir, symbolizing submission and reverence (Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, Tarawih Section).
• Breaking the Prayer:
  After every 4 rak’ahs, a brief pause is taken. This interlude may be used for dhikr (remembrance of Allah) or silent supplication, ensuring that the worshippers remain mindful and not overly fatigued by the long prayer.
• Completion with Witr:
  In the Hanafi school, the Witr prayer is considered wajib and is performed after Tarawih. Other schools regard Witr as a strong sunnah. It is generally offered in 1, 3, or 5 rak’ahs, often with additional supplications.
  (Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, Witr Section)

Congregational vs. Individual Performance

While Tarawih is highly recommended to be performed in congregation for its communal benefits, it is not obligatory to do so. The rewards of the prayer are greater when performed in a group setting due to the added blessings of unity and collective worship.

• Congregational Tarawih:
  The practice of congregational Tarawih, revived by Umar (RA), emphasizes discipline, unity, and the opportunity to listen to the Qur’an recitation by a qualified imam. It also fosters a sense of community as Muslims gather each night in the mosque.
  (Bukhari, Tarawih, 2)
• Individual Tarawih:
  If circumstances prevent one from attending the mosque, Tarawih can be performed individually at home. The key is to maintain the same level of devotion and concentration as one would in a congregational setting.

The Virtues and Benefits of Tarawih Prayer

1. Forgiveness of Sins:
   It is reported in hadith that those who engage in voluntary night prayers during Ramadan, including Tarawih, are promised forgiveness of their sins. This adds an immense spiritual incentive to partake in this blessed practice.
   (Bukhari, Savm, 6)
2. Intensive Engagement with the Qur’an:
   Tarawih prayer provides an excellent opportunity for Muslims to listen to or recite the Qur’an. In many mosques, the entire Qur’an is recited over the course of Ramadan, allowing the community to reflect on the divine message.
   (Malik, Al-Muwatta, Ramadan Nights Section)
3. Strengthening Community Bonds:
   The collective performance of Tarawih enhances the sense of brotherhood and unity among Muslims. Standing shoulder to shoulder in prayer reinforces social ties and instills a shared sense of purpose.
4. Discipline and Self-Control:
   Observing Tarawih consistently during Ramadan serves as a means of disciplining the soul, fostering patience, and reinforcing a routine of regular worship.

Variations in Tarawih Practices

Tarawih with Qur’anic Hatif

In many mosques, especially during Ramadan, the imam recites one juz’ (part) of the Qur’an each night. This systematic approach allows the complete recitation of the Qur’an over the 30 days of Ramadan, benefiting the congregation by enhancing their understanding and reflection on the Qur’anic message.

Shorter Tarawih

In communities where time is limited or where congregants prefer a shorter form of prayer, imams may opt for reciting shorter surahs and limiting the number of rak’ahs to 8. This practice is entirely acceptable, as the emphasis remains on consistency and devotion rather than on achieving a specific number.

Participation of Women in Tarawih Prayer

Women are encouraged to participate in Tarawih prayer, whether in congregational settings (in designated areas) or individually at home. When performed in the mosque, many communities provide separate sections for women to ensure modesty and comfort. The spiritual rewards and communal benefits of Tarawih extend to all Muslims, regardless of gender.

Final Words

Tarawih prayer is one of the most cherished and spiritually enriching practices during Ramadan. Its origins trace back to the early days of Islam, with its institutionalization during the caliphate of Umar (RA) setting a precedent that continues to inspire millions of Muslims worldwide. Recognized as a sunnah mu’akkadeh, Tarawih prayer—whether performed in congregation or individually—offers profound benefits: it deepens one’s engagement with the Qur’an, fosters communal unity, and serves as a vehicle for self-discipline and spiritual renewal.

Muslims are encouraged to embrace this blessed practice with sincerity and consistency, ensuring that the unique blessings of Ramadan are fully realized. By integrating Tarawih into one’s nightly routine during Ramadan, believers can achieve a heightened state of mindfulness and spiritual growth, ultimately drawing closer to Allah.

Bibliography

1. Bukhari, Tarawih; Savm; Tahajjud sections.
2. Muslim, Salat ul-Musafirien.
3. Malik, Al-Muwatta, Ramadan Nights Section.
4. Nevevi, Al-Macmu‘, Tarawih Chapter.
5. Beyhaki, Sunan al-Kubra, Tarawih Section.
6. Ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar, Tarawih and Witr Sections.

These sources provide comprehensive insights into the fiqh and practice of Tarawih prayer. Embracing this blessed nightly worship during Ramadan not only fulfills a cherished Sunnah but also strengthens both individual spirituality and the collective unity of the Muslim Ummah.

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