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What is Tahajjud in Islam?

Posted on by AlbanFejza

Tahajjud (Arabic: تهجد) is a voluntary night prayer in Islam, performed in the late hours of the night, after waking from sleep. It is considered one of the most spiritually enriching acts of worship, enabling Muslims to seek closeness to Allah, reflect on their faith, and supplicate for their needs in the tranquility of the night. While not obligatory, Tahajjud holds a special status and is highly recommended for those who aspire to deepen their relationship with Allah.

Meaning of Tahajjud

The term Tahajjud is derived from the Arabic root h-j-d (ه-ج-د), meaning to keep vigil or to wake from sleep. In an Islamic context, it refers to the specific prayer performed after waking up during the night, characterized by its devotion and humility.

Significance of Tahajjud

  1. A Form of Nearness to Allah:
    • Tahajjud is a private and personal act of worship, offering an intimate connection with Allah.
  2. A Sign of Devotion:
    • It demonstrates dedication and sincerity, as it requires effort to wake up during restful hours solely to worship.
  3. Emphasized in the Quran:
    • The Quran highlights the virtues of praying at night:
      • “And during the night, wake up and pray, as an extra offering of devotion for you. It is expected that your Lord will raise you to a praiseworthy station.” (Quran 17:79)
  4. A Time for Acceptance of Duas:
    • The late hours of the night are described as a blessed time when supplications are more likely to be accepted.

How to Perform Tahajjud

  1. Timing:
    • Tahajjud is performed after the Isha (night prayer) and before the Fajr (dawn prayer). The best time is the last third of the night.
  2. Preparation:
    • Begin by making an intention (Niyyah) to perform Tahajjud and performing Wudu (ablution) if needed.
  3. Number of Rak’ahs:
    • There is no fixed number of Rak’ahs (units of prayer) for Tahajjud. It can be as short as two Rak’ahs or extended to as many as one can comfortably perform.
  4. Recitation:
    • Recite Quranic verses and make personal supplications during the prayer, focusing on sincerity and humility.
  5. Supplication (Dua):
    • After the prayer, spend time making heartfelt Duas, seeking Allah’s forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.

Benefits of Tahajjud

  1. Spiritual Growth:
    • Tahajjud strengthens faith, nurtures patience, and fosters a deeper connection with Allah.
  2. Forgiveness of Sins:
    • Praying at night is a means of seeking Allah’s forgiveness and purifying one’s soul.
  3. Inner Peace and Tranquility:
    • The calmness of the night enhances concentration and mindfulness in worship.
  4. Strengthened Relationship with Allah:
    • Regularly engaging in Tahajjud builds a strong sense of reliance and gratitude toward Allah.

Encouragement for Tahajjud

  1. Voluntary, Not Obligatory:
    • While Tahajjud is not required, it is highly recommended for those who wish to seek Allah’s pleasure and blessings.
  2. Practice of the Righteous:
    • The Quran describes the pious as those who engage in prayer during the night, reflecting their devotion and reliance on Allah.
  3. Source of Divine Favor:
    • The late hours of the night are a time of special mercy, where Allah responds to those who call upon Him.

Conclusion

Tahajjud is a profound act of voluntary worship that offers immense spiritual rewards and fosters a close connection with Allah. It is an opportunity to step away from worldly distractions, seek forgiveness, and reflect on one’s relationship with the Creator in the serenity of the night. By incorporating Tahajjud into their routine, Muslims cultivate sincerity, humility, and a deep sense of devotion that enriches their faith and spiritual journey.

Written by AI.  A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.