TAHAJJUD NAMAZ
Tahajjud, derived from the Arabic word “tahajjada,” meaning to stay awake at night, refers to the voluntary night prayer performed after sleeping and before the Fajr prayer. It is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah (highly emphasized practice of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) and holds immense spiritual significance in Islam.
The virtues of Tahajjud are highlighted in the Quran and numerous Sahih Hadiths, emphasizing its role in attaining closeness to Allah, forgiveness, spiritual elevation, and countless blessings.
This article explores the importance and merits of Tahajjud with references from authentic Islamic sources.
Quranic References to Tahajjud:
The Quran explicitly praises those who engage in night worship and highlights the spiritual rewards associated with Tahajjud. Several verses emphasize the significance of rising at night to pray:
Surah Al-Isra (17:79)
Allah says:
“And from part of the night, pray with it [the Quran] as an additional worship for you; it is expected that your Lord will resurrect you to a praised station (Maqam Mahmud).”
This verse directly refers to the Tahajjud prayer, encouraging the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to perform it as a means of earning the exalted “Maqam Mahmud” (the Station of Praise). Scholars interpret this as a promise of intercession and high status in the Hereafter, a reward extended to those who follow the Prophet’s example in performing Tahajjud.
Surah As-Sajdah (32:16-17)
“Their sides forsake their beds to invoke their Lord in fear and hope, and they spend from what We have provided them. And no soul knows what has been hidden for them of comfort for eyes as a reward for what they used to do.”
This verse describes the believers who leave the comfort of their beds to worship Allah during the night. The “comfort for eyes” refers to the unimaginable rewards in Paradise, reserved for those who sacrifice sleep to engage in Tahajjud.
Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:1-6)
“O you who wraps himself in clothing, arise to pray the night, except for a little – half of it or a little less, or add to it, and recite the Quran with measured recitation. Indeed, We will cast upon you a heavy word. Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for heartfelt devotion and clearer for words.”
This passage was revealed in the early days of Islam, instructing the Prophet (peace be upon him) to dedicate a significant portion of the night to prayer and Quranic recitation. The verse underscores that the night is a time of heightened spiritual connection, as the heart is more focused and free from worldly distractions.
Surah Az-Zumar (39:9)
“Is one who is devoutly obedient during periods of the night, prostrating and standing in prayer, fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, like one who does not?”
This verse distinguishes the righteous who pray at night from others, highlighting their fear of the Hereafter and hope in Allah’s mercy, which are intensified during Tahajjud.These Quranic verses collectively emphasize the spiritual superiority of those who engage in night worship, promising them divine rewards, forgiveness, and closeness to Allah.
Virtues of Tahajjud in Sahih Hadiths :
The Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provides detailed insights into the virtues of Tahajjud through authentic Hadiths.
Below are some key narrations from Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and other reliable sources:
The Best Voluntary Prayer :
Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer (Tahajjud).” (Sahih Muslim, Book 6, Hadith 261)
This Hadith establishes Tahajjud as the most virtuous voluntary prayer, surpassing other Sunnah or Nawafil prayers in merit due to its spiritual intensity and the effort required to perform it.
A Means of Forgiveness :
Abu Umamah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Hold fast to the night prayer, for it is the practice of the righteous before you, and it is a means of drawing closer to your Lord, an expiation for sins, and a shield from wrongdoing.”
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 3549; graded Hasan)
This Hadith highlights multiple benefits:
Tahajjud connects the believer to Allah, erases sins, and protects against moral lapses, making it a powerful act of worship.Closeness to Allah
Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah descends to the lowest heaven during the last third of the night, saying, ‘Who is calling upon Me that I may answer him? Who is asking of Me that I may give him? Who is seeking My forgiveness that I may forgive him?’”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 21, Hadith 246; Sahih Muslim, Book 6, Hadith 256)
This Hadith underscores the unique opportunity during the last third of the night, when Allah’s mercy is particularly accessible, making Tahajjud a prime time for supplication and forgiveness.A Path to Paradise
Abdullah ibn Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever prays ten rak’ahs at night will not be recorded among the negligent, and whoever prays one hundred rak’ahs at night will be recorded among the devoted.”
(Sunan Abu Dawud, Hadith 1398; graded Sahih)
While this Hadith refers to varying numbers of rak’ahs, it emphasizes the immense reward for consistent night prayers, with even a modest effort ensuring protection from spiritual negligence.The Prophet’s Practice
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated:
“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to pray at night until his feet would swell, and I said to him, ‘Why do you do this, O Messenger of Allah, when your past and future sins have been forgiven?’ He replied, ‘Should I not be a grateful servant?’”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 21, Hadith 251; Sahih Muslim, Book 52, Hadith 13)
This Hadith illustrates the Prophet’s dedication to Tahajjud, despite his sinless status, as an expression of gratitude to Allah. It serves as a model for believers to emulate.Additional Virtues of TahajjudSpiritual Discipline and Tranquility
Tahajjud fosters self-discipline, as it requires waking up from sleep and overcoming physical comfort. The serene atmosphere of the night enhances concentration and sincerity in worship, as mentioned in Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:6). This tranquility strengthens the believer’s connection with Allah, fostering inner peace and clarity.Acceptance of Duas
The Hadith about Allah’s descent in the last third of the night highlights the heightened likelihood of supplications being accepted during Tahajjud. Scholars recommend making heartfelt duas during this time, seeking forgiveness, guidance, and blessings for oneself and others protection from Sins.
As mentioned in the Hadith from Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Tahajjud acts as a shield against sins by reinforcing Taqwa (God-consciousness). Regular performance of Tahajjud helps believers stay mindful of their actions and avoid wrongdoing.A Sign of the Righteous
The Quran and Hadiths consistently describe night worshippers as among the righteous. Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:17-18) states: “They used to sleep but little of the night, and in the hours before dawn they would ask forgiveness.” This reflects the habit of the pious, who prioritize worship over worldly rest.
Practical Aspects of TahajjudTime:
Tahajjud is performed after Isha and before Fajr, preferably in the last third of the night. It requires waking up after some sleep, distinguishing it from Qiyam al-Layl (general night prayer).
Number of rak’ahs :
The Prophet (peace be upon him) typically prayed 8 or 11 rak’ahs, including Witr (Sahih Bukhari, Book 21, Hadith 240).
However, even two rak’ahs are sufficient.
Benefits of Tahajjud :
- Closeness to Allah (SWT):
Tahajjud strengthens the believer’s connection with Allah, fostering spiritual tranquility and devotion.
2. Acceptance of Duas:
The quiet hours of the night are a prime time for supplications, as Allah is especially attentive to His servants.
3. Forgiveness of Sins:
Regular Tahajjud prayers cleanse the heart and seek Allah’s forgiveness, as mentioned in Hadiths.
4. Spiritual Discipline:
Waking up for Tahajjud cultivates self-discipline, patience, and sincerity in worship.
5. Protection from Evil:
The practice safeguards believers from sins and negative influences, aligning their lives with righteousness.
Method:
It is prayed in pairs of two rak’ahs, with Witr as the concluding prayer. Reciting long portions of the Quran and making lengthy supplications are encouraged.
Conclusion :
Tahajjud is a powerful act of worship that brings countless spiritual and worldly benefits. The Quran and Sahih Hadiths highlight its significance as a means to attain Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and elevated ranks. By sacrificing sleep to stand in prayer, Muslims demonstrate their devotion and sincerity, reaping rewards in this life and the Hereafter. Incorporating Tahajjud into daily life can transform one’s spiritual journey, bringing peace and divine blessings. (Aameen).
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