As the holy month of Ramadan arrives, we as Muslims do our best to engage in acts of worship and devotion. Among the most cherished traditions during this sacred time of Ramadan is the Taraweeh prayer. This article aims to provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to pray Taraweeh in the mosque, emphasizing the significance of congregational prayer and the spiritual benefits it brings.
What is Taraweeh Prayer?
Taraweeh prayer is a voluntary prayer performed during Ramadan after the obligatory Isha (night) prayer. Derived from the Arabic word “Tarawih,” meaning to rest and take a break, it is named so because worshippers usually take brief rests between sets of Rak’ahs (units) performed during Taraweeh.
Taraweeh prayer holds a profound significance for us Muslims, particularly during a time when the Qur’an had not yet been compiled into a written format. This special prayer served as a means for them to engage in the revision and correction of any potential errors that might have occurred in their memorization of the sacred text.
This still holds true for our Muslims brothers of today, especially the Hafiz-e-Quran (those who have memorized the Qur’an by heart).
Narrated Abu Hurairah:
~Bukhari (Vol 3, Book 31, Hadith 2008)
I heard Allah’s Messenger PBUH saying regarding Ramadan, “Whoever performed Salat (prayers) at night in it (the month of Ramadan) with sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his past sins will be forgiven.”
Is Taraweeh Prayer compulsory?
The Taraweeh prayer, while highly recommended and virtuous, is not considered obligatory in Islamic jurisprudence. Unlike the five daily obligatory prayers (Fardh Salah), Taraweeh is categorized as a voluntary (Sunnah) act of worship. While the performance of Taraweeh is greatly encouraged and holds immense spiritual benefits, it does not carry the same level of obligation as the obligatory acts of worship.
Narrated ‘Urwa that he was informed by ‘Aishah:
“Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) went out in the middle of the night and prayed in the mosque and some men prayed behind him. In the morning, the people spoke about it and then a large number of them gathered and prayed behind him (on the second night). In the next morning the people again talked about it and on the third night the mosque was full with a large number of people. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) came out and the people prayed behind him. On the fourth night the Mosque was overwhelmed with people and could not accommodate them, but the Prophet (ﷺ) came out (only) for the morning prayer. When the morning prayer was finished he recited Tashah-hud and (addressing the people) said, “Amma ba’du, your presence was not hidden from me but I was afraid lest the night prayer (Qiyam) should be enjoined on you and you might not be able to carry it on.”
~Bukhari (Vol 3, Book 31, Hadith 2012)
You will also find it important to note that while Taraweeh prayer is commonly performed in mosques, it is not obligatory to do so. Muslims have the flexibility to perform Taraweeh prayer either individually at home or in congregation at the mosque.
However, if you pray Taraweeh in the mosque, it amplifies the spiritual benefits and blessings of this cherished act of worship. Congregational prayer is always preferred over individual prayer.
How to pray Taraweeh in the Mosque (Step-by-Step)
1. Find a suitable Mosque:
Look for a mosque that is conveniently located near you to make attending Taraweeh prayers easier. If possible, opt for a spacious mosque, as larger crowds are expected during Ramadan, especially for Taraweeh prayers.
Check the prayer schedule of the mosque for Taraweeh prayer to ensure it aligns with your availability. The main goal of the Taraweeh prayer is to recite the entire Qur’an from start to finish. Some mosque’s will cover the Qur’an in 30 days (1 para per day), which is the most common practice.
Some mosque’s have different schedules, and might cover the entire Qur’an within 15 days or less.
Some mosque’s also differ in how many rakats are prayed. As Taraweeh is not an obligatory prayer, no fixed amount of prayers or rakats were prescribed. The Prophet Muhammad would pray 8 rakats during Ramadan, but later in the era of Hazrat Umar, the amount of prayers were commonly increased to 20. As such, some mosque’s will be found praying 8 rakats, whereas some will be praying 20 rakats.
2. Going to the Mosque:
Arrive at the mosque a few minutes before the Isha prayer begins, allowing yourself time to settle in and prepare. Make sure you have performed Wudu (ablution) and are ready for prayer.
Dress appropriately for the prayer, choosing lightweight and modest clothing, as mosques can become warm and crowded during Taraweeh sessions. It is advisable to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the extended prayer period.
If necessary, bring your own prayer mat to ensure a clean and comfortable surface for prayer.
Note: Women are allowed to go to mosque for Taraweeh prayer as well. However, it is more preferable for them to pray in the privacy of their homes.
3. Performing the Taraweeh Prayer:
Following the congregational Isha prayer, there is usually a short break (typically 5 to 10 minutes) before the Taraweeh prayer begins. This break allows time for optional Sunnah or Nawafil prayers to be performed. After this, the Taraweeh prayer will begin, lead by the imam of the mosque.
The Taraweeh prayer follows the standard format of any regular 2-rakat prayer, but here is an overview:
- Taraweeh is performed in sets of 2 Rak’ahs (units) at a time.
- Stand facing the qibla (direction of the Kaaba in Mecca).
- Begin with the Takbeer (saying “Allahu Akbar” to initiate the prayer).
- Recite portions of the Quran in each Rak’ah. The Imam leading the prayer will recite aloud, and the congregation follows silently or quietly.
- Perform the Ruku’ (bowing) and Sujood (prostration) in each Rak’ah, following the Imam’s lead.
- Perform the “Tashahud” (sitting position after Sujood) in the second Rak’ah and end the prayer.
- Maintain focus and tranquility throughout the prayer, engaging in the remembrance of Allah and seeking His blessings.
4. Witr Prayer (Optional):
After completing the Taraweeh prayer, it is common for the congregation to perform the Witr prayer together. However, it is important to note that the inclusion of the Witr prayer in the Taraweeh session can vary depending on the mosque’s practices.
Follow the lead of the Imam or the established customs of the mosque regarding the Witr prayer. The Imam may lead the congregation in performing Witr, or it can be done individually if not done collectively.
Ending Note
As you pray Taraweeh in the Mosque, remember that the essence of this act of worship lies in devotion, humility, and seeking closeness to Allah. Whether you choose to pray Taraweeh individually at home or join the congregation in the mosque, the spiritual benefits and rewards are immense. The collective atmosphere and unity experienced during Taraweeh prayers foster a sense of community and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims.
As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds, embrace the opportunity to connect with the Quran, seek forgiveness, and elevate your spirituality through Taraweeh prayer. May your Taraweeh prayers be accepted, and may this blessed month bring you closer to Allah and fill your heart with peace, blessings, and abundant rewards.