How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer Step by Step - A Complete Guide
Have you ever woken up in the deep silence of the night, feeling a special connection with Allah? That's the beauty of Tahajjud - a powerful voluntary prayer that brings immense blessings. Many of us struggle with waking up or performing it correctly. If you've been searching for a step-by-step guide on how to perform Tahajjud prayer, you're in the right place.
What Is Tahajjud Prayer?
Tahajjud is a night prayer offered after waking up from sleep. It is one of the most rewarding voluntary (Nafl) prayers in Islam. The best time for Tahajjud is the last third of the night, when Allah descends to the lowest heaven, asking:
"Is there anyone who seeks My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?"
(Bukhari 1145)
This prayer is a direct conversation with Allah, filled with mercy and acceptance of supplications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Tahajjud Prayer
1. Make a Sincere Intention (Niyyah)
Before starting, set your intention in your heart to pray Tahajjud solely for Allah's pleasure. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"Actions are judged by intentions."
(Bukhari 1)
You don't need to say it out loud—just feel it deeply.
2. Wake Up in the Last Third of the Night
The best time for Tahajjud is after midnight, preferably in the last third of the night. Calculate it by dividing the time between Maghrib and Fajr into three parts.
وَمِنَ اللَّيْلِ فَتَهَجَّدْ بِهِ نَافِلَةً لَّكَ عَسَىٰ أَن يَبْعَثَكَ رَبُّكَ مَقَامًا مَّحْمُودًا
"And during the night, wake up for Tahajjud—an additional prayer for you. Perhaps your Lord will raise you to a praised station."
(Quran 17:79)
3. Perform Wudu (Ablution)
Cleanliness is key. Perform Wudu as you would for any other prayer. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"Allah does not accept prayer without purification."
(Muslim 224)
4. Start with 2 Rak'ahs (Minimum)
Tahajjud is prayed in pairs of two Rak'ahs. You can pray as many as you like, but the Prophet (PBUH) usually prayed 8 or 12 Rak'ahs.
How to Perform Each Rak'ah:
- Step 1: Begin with Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and recite Surah Al-Fatihah.
- Step 2: Recite another Surah (e.g., Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, or any verses).
- Step 3: Go into Rukū (bowing) and say:
سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الْعَظِيمِ "Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem" (Glory to my Lord, the Most Great)
- Step 4: Rise and stand straight, then go into Sujood (prostration) and say:
سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الْأَعْلَى "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (Glory to my Lord, the Most High)
- Step 5: Sit briefly, then perform a second Sujood.
- Step 6: Stand up for the second Rak'ah and repeat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't rush – Tahajjud is about connection, not speed.
- Avoid loud recitations – Keep it soft and humble.
- Don't skip Wudu – It's essential for prayer acceptance.
Final Thoughts
Tahajjud is a gift from Allah—a time when He listens closely to our prayers. Even if you pray just 2 Rak'ahs, it's better than nothing. Start small, be consistent, and watch how your spiritual life transforms.
Pro Tip: Set an alarm, keep water nearby to help wake up, and make sincere dua before sleeping to wake up for Tahajjud.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I pray Tahajjud before sleeping?
A: No, Tahajjud must be prayed after waking up from sleep.
Q: How many Rak'ahs should I pray?
A: Minimum 2 Rak'ahs, but you can pray more (4, 6, 8, etc.).
Q: What if I miss Tahajjud?
A: You can pray Ishraq (after sunrise) as a substitute.
Tahajjud is not just a prayer—it's a spiritual lifeline. The more you pray it, the closer you feel to Allah. Start tonight, even if it's just two Rak'ahs. Remember, Allah loves those who strive for Him.
May Allah grant us the ability to wake up for Tahajjud and accept our prayers. Ameen.
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