The blessed month of Ramadan offers Muslims around the world an opportunity to increase acts of worship, strengthen faith, and seek spiritual closeness to Allah. As part of Ramadan preparation, many people also create a simple Ramadan checklist such as setting prayer goals, planning sleep schedules, and preparing spiritually for consistent night worship. Among the special acts of worship performed during this month is the Tarawih Prayer, a voluntary night prayer conducted after the obligatory Isha prayer. For many, especially beginners or those returning to regular worship, understanding how to perform Tarawih correctly can make the experience more meaningful and comfortable. This guide explains the Tarawih Prayer meaning, its significance, and step-by-step instructions on how to perform it.
Tarawih Prayer Meaning and Significance
The tarawih prayer meaning comes from the Arabic word tarwihah, which refers to rest or relaxation. Historically, short breaks were taken between sets of prayers due to their length, leading to the name Tarawih. It is a Sunnah Mu’akkad (highly recommended practice) performed exclusively during Ramadan nights.
Tarawih provides a chance to stand in extended prayer, listen to the recitation of the Quran, and seek forgiveness and mercy. Many mosques aim to complete the entire Quran throughout the month during Tarawih, making it a spiritually uplifting experience.
When to Perform Tarawih Prayer
Tarawih is performed after the Isha prayer and before the Witr prayer. It can be done:
- In congregation at the mosque.
- At home individually.
- With family members.
While praying in congregation carries additional reward, performing Tarawih at home is equally valid and beneficial, especially for those with schedule or accessibility constraints.
How Many Rakaats in Tarawih Prayer?
Scholars have differing opinions on the number of rakaats (units of prayer) for Tarawih. The most common practices include:
- 8 rakats followed by Witr.
- 20 rakats followed by Witr.
Both practices are widely accepted. The most important aspect is consistency, sincerity, and focus rather than the specific number.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Tarawih Prayer
Source: Pinterest
1. Make the Intention (Niyyah)
As with all prayers, begin with the intention in your heart to perform Tarawih for the sake of Allah. The intention does not need to be verbalized.
Like other prayers, Tarawih prayer begins with an intention in the heart. The following is the intention for performing Tarawih prayer individually:
Arabic:
اُصَلِّى سُنَّةَ التَّرَاوِيْحِ رَكْعَتَيْنِ مُسْتَقْبِلَ الْقِبْلَةِ أَدَاءً لِلهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration:
Ushalli sunnatat tarāwīhi rak‘atayni mustaqbilal qiblati adā’an lillāhi ta‘ālā.
Meaning:
“I intend to perform the two-rakat sunnah Tarawih prayer facing the qiblah, fulfilled for the sake of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.”
On the other hand, here’s the intention for performing Tarawih prayer as a Follower (Congregational) 2 rakats:
Arabic:
اُصَلِّى سُنَّةَ التَّرَاوِيْحِ رَكْعَتَيْنِ مُسْتَقْبِلَ الْقِبْلَةِ مَأْمُوْمًا ِللهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration:
Ushalli sunnatat taraawiihi rak’ataini mustaqbilal qiblati ma’muuman lillahi ta’aalaa
Meaning:
“I intend to perform the two-rakat sunnah Tarawih prayer facing the qiblah as a follower for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.”
2. Pray in Sets of Two Rakats
Tarawih is performed in pairs of two rakats, similar to other voluntary prayers.
For each two-rakat set:
- Start with Takbir (raising hands and saying “Allahu Akbar”).
- Recite Surah Al-Fatihah.
- Recite another portion of the Quran.
- Complete ruku, sujud, and sitting positions as usual.
- End with Taslim (saying salam).
3. Take Short Breaks if Needed
It is permissible to pause briefly between sets. These breaks can be used for dhikr, dua, or quiet reflection.
4. Continue Until Desired Number of Rakats
Repeat the two-rakat structure until completing your chosen number (8 or 20).
5. Conclude With Witr Prayer
Tarawih typically ends with Witr prayer, which is an odd-numbered prayer (commonly 1 or 3 rakats). This marks the completion of night worship. After completing all the Tarawih rakats, this night worship is concluded with the Witr prayer. Witr means odd, which is its defining principle, the number of rakats must always be odd. During Ramadan, Witr is commonly performed as 3 rakats.
Intention for 3-Rakat Witr Prayer:
Arabic:
اُصَلِّى سُنًّةَ الْوِتْرِ ثَلاَثَ رَكَعَاتٍ مُسْتَقْبِلَ الْقِبْلَةِ اَدَاءً مَأْمُوْمًا ِللهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration:
Ushallii sunnatal witri tsalaasa roka’aatin mustaqbilal qiblati adaa’an (ma’muman/imaman) lillaahi ta’alaa
Meaning:
“I intend to perform the three-rakat sunnah Witr prayer facing the qiblah as a (follower/leader) for the sake of Allah Ta’ala.”
Tips for a Meaningful Tarawih Prayer Experience
To enhance your Tarawih experience, consider these practical tips:
- Maintain focus and avoid rushing movements.
- Read from a mushaf if memorization is limited (when praying alone).
- Stay hydrated between prayers.
- Wear comfortable clothing for long standing.
- Reflect on Quranic meanings during recitation.
- Pace yourself throughout Ramadan to avoid burnout.
Benefits of Performing Tarawih Prayer
Regularly performing Tarawih can bring numerous spiritual and personal benefits:
- Strengthens connection with Allah.
- Encourages consistent night worship habits.
- Promotes Quran engagement.
- Provides inner peace and reflection time.
- Builds community bonds when performed in congregation.