Introduction

Among the most rewarding and spiritually uplifting acts in Islam is the Tahajjud prayer. This special night prayer is a powerful way to seek closeness to Allah, ask for forgiveness, and make heartfelt supplications (Tahajjud dua). Many Muslims want to develop the habit of praying Tahajjud regularly but often struggle with understanding the proper method or finding the right time.

In this guide, we will explain how to pray Tahajjud step by step, its timing, the number of rak’ahs, and the duas to recite. Whether you’re new to this blessed prayer or looking for a refresher, this article will help you understand how to perform Tahajjud prayer properly.

What is Tahajjud Prayer?

Tahajjud, also known as Qiyam-ul-Lail, is a voluntary night prayer performed after waking up from sleep. It is one of the most beloved acts of worship in Islam, as it strengthens one’s faith and brings them closer to Allah.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized the importance of Tahajjud Salat, stating:

“The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.” (Sahih Muslim 1163)

This prayer is an opportunity to seek forgiveness, guidance, and blessings, making it an essential practice for those who want to develop a deeper connection with their Creator.

Tahajjud Prayer Time – When to Pray?

The best time for Tahajjud is in the last third of the night, as this is when Allah’s mercy is at its peak.

The night is divided into three parts:

1. First part – After Isha prayer until one-third of the night.
2. Second part – From one-third of the night until before Fajr.
3. Last third of the night – This is the most blessed time for Tahajjud.

"Our Lord descends every night to the lowest heaven when one-third of the night remains and says: ‘Who will call upon Me so that I may answer him? Who will ask of Me so that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?’ (Sahih al-Bukhari 1145, Sahih Muslim 758)

To determine tahajjud namaz time, check your local Isha and Fajr prayer timings and calculate the last third of the night.

How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer – Step by Step Namaz Guide

Step 1: Make the Intention (Niyyah)

• The first step before praying Tahajjud is to make a sincere intention.
• Although the Niyyah is not recited verbally, it should be firmly made in the heart.

Step 2: Wake Up for Tahajjud

• It is best to sleep after Isha and wake up in the last third of the night.
• If waking up is difficult, try setting alarms or asking a family member for help.

Step 3: Perform Wudu (Ablution)

• Like all prayers, Tahajjud requires purity.
• If needed, you can also perform Ghusl (full purification) before praying.

Step 4: Start with Two Rak’ahs

• The minimum number of rak’ahs for Tahajjud prayer is two.
• You can pray in sets of two rak’ahs, up to eight or more based on your ability.

Step 5: Recite the Quran and Make Dua

• Recite Surah Al-Fatiha in each rak’ah, followed by any Surah from the Quran.
• Make sincere duas after completing your prayer.

Tahajjud Dua – What to Recite?

After praying Tahajjud, it is highly recommended to recite supplications and seek Allah’s mercy. Here is a powerful dua to recite:

Dua in Arabic:

اللهم اجعل في قلبي نورًا، وفي لساني نورًا، وفي سمعي نورًا، وفي بصري نورًا، ومن فوقي نورًا، ومن تحتي نورًا، وعن يميني نورًا، وعن شمالي نورًا، ومن أمامي نورًا، ومن خلفي نورًا، واجعل لي نورًا

Dua in English:

"O Allah! Place light in my heart, light on my tongue, light in my hearing, light in my sight, light above me, light below me, light on my right, light on my left, light before me, light behind me, and grant me light."

Tip: Consistently making dua after Tahajjud is a powerful way to get prayers accepted.

Why Learn Namaz and Quran Properly?

To perform Tahajjud prayer correctly, one must have a good understanding of Namaz and the Quran. If you or your child needs guidance in learning prayer properly, we offer structured online courses:

Learn Namaz Online – Step-by-Step Namaz Course
Quran Learning Course – Tajweed & Memorization

These courses are designed to help you improve your prayer, Quran recitation, and overall connection with Allah.

Benefits of Praying Tahajjud

• Strengthens faith and spirituality.
• Brings peace, blessings, and contentment.
• Helps in seeking forgiveness and guidance.
• Increases focus and discipline in daily life.

Tips to Wake Up for Tahajjud

1. Sleep early and avoid distractions before bed.
2. Make a strong intention before sleeping.
3. Set multiple alarms to wake up on time.
4. Ask a family member to remind you.
5. Recite bedtime duas for blessings and ease in waking up.

Conclusion

Tahajjud prayer is a deeply spiritual act that brings immense rewards. Whether you’re struggling to wake up or unsure about how to pray Tahajjud properly, taking small steps can help you develop this blessed habit.

By following this guide, you now know how to perform Tahajjud step by step, the Tahajjud namaz time, and the duas to recite. Make an effort to pray Tahajjud regularly and witness its positive impact on your life.

May Allah bless us all with the ability to wake up for Tahajjud prayer and accept our duas. Ameen!

FAQs

1. How do you pray Tahajjud if you wake up late?

If you wake up late, pray at least two rak’ahs before Fajr.

2. What is the difference between Tahajjud and Qiyam-ul-Lail?

Tahajjud is a type of Qiyam-ul-Lail but requires sleeping before praying.

3. Can Tahajjud be prayed right after Isha?

No, it is preferable to sleep first, then wake up for Tahajjud.

4.What is the recommended number of rak'ahs for Tahajjud?

Minimum two, increased by even numbers.

5.Can women pray Tahajjud during their menstrual cycle?

No, but they can perform other forms of worship.

6.Is it permissible to pray Tahajjud loudly?

Yes, but silently is preferred if it prevents disturbance.

7.What are the benefits of praying Tahajjud?

Closeness to Allah, forgiveness, and answered prayers.