Taraweeh Namaz is a special Sunnah prayer performed during the nights of Ramadan after the Isha namaz. It holds great spiritual importance and was strongly encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The purpose of Taraweeh is not only to pray more rakats, but to strengthen faith through Quran recitation, humility, and devotion.
In this guide, you will learn the step-by-step method of praying Taraweeh, the number of rakats, the correct time, how to pray at home, and the rewards of Taraweeh Namaz, explained in a clear and simple way for everyone.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It commemorates the month in which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
During Ramadan, believers fast from dawn to sunset, increase acts of worship, and focus on spiritual growth. It is a period of self-discipline, charity, and strengthening the bond with Allah.
What Is Taraweeh Namaz?
Taraweeh Namaz is a special Sunnah prayer performed by Muslims during the month of Ramadan after the Isha prayer. It is prayed only at night and is usually offered in congregation at the mosque, but it can also be prayed at home.
The purpose of Taraweeh is to worship Allah, recite the Qur’an, and gain forgiveness and spiritual reward during Ramadan.
Meaning of Taraweeh Prayer
The word Taraweeh comes from the Arabic word “راحة” (rahah), which means rest or relaxation. It is called Taraweeh because short rests are taken after every few rakats, making the prayer easier and comfortable to perform during the long nights of Ramadan.
Importance of Taraweeh in Ramadan
Taraweeh is important in Ramadan because it increases reward, strengthens the connection with the Qur’an, and brings forgiveness of sins. It helps Muslims spend Ramadan nights in worship and grow spiritually closer to Allah.
Origin of Taraweeh and Practice of Prophet ﷺ
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ prayed Taraweeh during Ramadan and encouraged others to do so, but he did not make it obligatory. Later, during the caliphate of Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه), Muslims began praying Taraweeh regularly in congregation.
When Is Taraweeh Namaz Performed?
Taraweeh Namaz is performed after the Isha prayer and before Witr during the nights of Ramadan. It is a night prayer and cannot be offered during the daytime.
Taraweeh Time After Isha Prayer
The time for Taraweeh begins after completing Isha and its Sunnah prayers and continues until before Fajr.
Is Taraweeh Performed Every Night of Ramadan?
Yes, Taraweeh is offered on every night of Ramadan, including the first and last nights of the blessed month.
How Many Rakats Are in Taraweeh Namaz?
Tarawih prayer is a Sunnah prayer consisting of 20 rak’ahs (according to the Hanafi school of thought) that is performed during the month of Ramadan, and it is usually prayed in sets of two rak’ahs for ease and regularity..
How Many Rakats Did the Prophet ﷺ Pray?
Authentic narrations state that the Prophet ﷺ(peace and blessings be upon him) prayed 20 rak’ahs in the night prayer during Ramadan, excluding the Witr prayer.
Can Taraweeh Be Prayed at Home?
Yes, if a person cannot go to the mosque, the Tarawih prayer can be performed at home, and it remains valid whether performed alone or in congregation.
Taraweeh at Home for Men
Men are permitted to pray the Tarawih prayers at home, although praying in congregation at the mosque yields greater reward.
Taraweeh at Home for Women
Muslim women can perform the Tarawih prayers at home, either alone or with family members.
Can Women Lead Taraweeh at Home?
A Muslim woman can lead another Muslim woman in the Tarawih prayer, but it is better for them to pray separately. (This is according to the Hanafi school of thought.)
Chart Of Taraweeh Namaz Niyyat-Salam And Rakat
niyyat-salam chart
| Rakat Set | Niyyat (Intention) | After 2 Rakats / Salam | Dua After 4 Rakats | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam to the right and left | – | Begin with 2 rakats Sunnah |
| 3–4 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | Recite recommended Taraweeh Dua | Short break if needed |
| 5–6 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | – | Focus on Qur’an recitation |
| 7–8 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | Recite recommended Taraweeh Dua | Sit briefly if tired |
| 9–10 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | – | Maintain khushu (humility) |
| 11–12 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | Recite recommended Taraweeh Dua | Short break if needed |
| 13–14 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | – | Continue Qur’an recitation |
| 15–16 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | Recite recommended Taraweeh Dua | Sit briefly after each 4 rakats |
| 17–18 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | – | Focus on dua and reflection |
| 19–20 | I intend to pray 2 rakats of Taraweeh for Allah | Salam | Recite recommended Taraweeh Dua | Complete 20 rakats, then Witr |
| Witr (1–3) | I intend to pray Witr for Allah | Salam | – | Wajib according to Hanafi fiqh |
Rakat Table chart
| Namaz Type | Number of Rakats | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Taraweeh (Sunnah) | 20 | Can be prayed in sets of 2 rakats each |
| Witr (Wajib/Hanafi) | 3 | Usually prayed after Taraweeh |
| Short Break | – | After every 4 rakats, sit briefly |
| Dua After Taraweeh | – | Recommended to ask Allah for forgiveness and guidance |
How to Pray Taraweeh Namaz Step by Step
This is the method for praying alone:
Step 1 – Make the Intention (Niyyah)
I intend to perform two rak’ahs of Tarawih prayer, a Sunnah prayer, for the sake of Allah Almighty, facing the Kaaba, Allahu Akbar.
Intention (Niyyah) refers to the intention of the heart, but it is better to express it verbally.
(You can make the intention for all 20 rak’ahs at once, but it is better to make the intention for two rak’ahs at a time.)
Step 2 – Say Takbiratul Ihram
Now, saying “Allahu Akbar,” place your hands below your navel.
ٱللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ
Step 3 – Place Right Hand Over Left and Recite Sana
Subḥānaka Allāhumma wa biḥamdika wa tabāraka ismuka wa taʿālā jadduka wa lā ilāha ghayruka
Step 4 – Recite Surah Al-Fatihah
Ta’awwuz, tasmiyah + Alhamdulillhi Rabbil aalameen—waladduallin.
Step 5 – Recite Another Surah from the Quran
Bismillah + alamtara kaifa fa’ala rabbuka–ka’asfimmakool
Step 6 – Perform Ruku
3-7 times read Subhana Rabbiyal ‘Azim
Step 7 – qaumah
Sami‘allahu liman hamidah
Rabbana lakal hamd
Step 8 – Perform First Sajdah
3-7 times read tasbeeh
Subhana Rabbiyal A‘la
Step 9 – Sit Between Two Sajdahs
Between the two prostrations, one should sit or perform the Jalsa (sitting posture).
Step 10 – Perform Second Sajdah
The second prostration is to be completed in the same way.
Step 11 – Complete One Rakat and Stand Again
This completes your first rak’ah (unit of prayer). You need to complete the second rak’ah in the same way.
Step 12 – Recite Final Tashahhud
Now, just like in every prayer, after sitting for the Tashahhud, you must first recite the Tashahhud (Attahiyyat), then the Durood-e-Ibrahimi, and then any prescribed supplication (dua).
Step 13 – End the Prayer with Salam
And finally, to complete the prayer, they turn their heads to the right and left shoulders, saying the salutation.
Note: If you are praying behind the Imam, you must follow the Imam completely.
Witr Prayer After Taraweeh Namaz
Praying Witr after Taraweeh is the preferred Sunnah practice. It completes the night prayer and brings greater reward.
Is Witr Compulsory After Taraweeh?
Witr is not compulsory specifically after Taraweeh, but in the Hanafi school it is considered wajib. It can be prayed anytime after Isha and before Fajr.
How Many Rakats of Witr Should Be Prayed?
Witr is usually prayed as 3 rakats. In some schools, it may also be offered as 1 or 5 rakats, but 3 rakats are common in Hanafi fiqh.
namaz related post
| Namaz Rakat Guide Table |
| fajr namaz rakat |
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| asr namaz rakat |
| maghrib namaz rakat |
| isha namz rakat |
| practicaly method namaz |
Quran Recitation Rules in Taraweeh Namaz
It is Sunnah (recommended) to complete the entire Quran during the Tarawih prayers throughout the month of Ramadan. The general rule is to recite one Juz (part) of the Quran in the 20 rak’ahs of prayer each day. However, some mosques may recite more or less than this. In each rak’ah, after reciting Surah Fatiha, only a few verses of the Quran are recited, as the goal is to complete one Juz in 20 rak’ahs so that the entire Holy Quran can be completed once during the Tarawih prayers.
Is Completing the Whole Quran Necessary?
It is not mandatory to recite the entire Quran during Tarawih prayers. If you complete the rak’ahs with shorter surahs, your Tarawih prayer will still be valid. However, completing the entire Quran is Sunnah and carries great reward.
Can You Hold the Quran While Praying Taraweeh?
According to the Hanafi school of thought, it is not permissible to hold the Quran in your hand or look at it during the prayer. However, you may look at it after completing two rak’ahs.
Sunnah and Recommended Practices in Taraweeh Namaz
Sahih Bukhari (Hadith 1129) – The Prophet ﷺ mentioned the virtue of standing in prayer during the nights of Ramadan.
Making a Pure and Sincere Intention
Sahih Bukhari & Sahih Muslim – “Actions are judged by intentions.”
Taking Short Pauses After Every Four Rakats
Classical Hanafi Fiqh books explain that the word Taraweeh comes from rest, so taking a short break after every four rakats is recommended.
Balanced Speed in Recitation
Qur’an, Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:4) – “Recite the Qur’an with slow, measured recitation.”
Making Du’a After Taraweeh
Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi – Making dua after obligatory and voluntary prayers is considered recommended.
سُبْحَانَ ذِي الْمُلْكِ وَالْمَلَكُوتِ
سُبْحَانَ ذِي الْعِزَّةِ وَالْعَظَمَةِ وَالْهَيْبَةِ وَالْقُدْرَةِ وَالْكِبْرِيَاءِ وَالْجَبَرُوتِ
سُبْحَانَ الْمَلِكِ الْحَيِّ الَّذِي لَا يَنَامُ وَلَا يَمُوتُ
سُبُّوحٌ قُدُّوسٌ رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّ الْمَلَائِكَةِ وَالرُّوحِ
اللَّهُمَّ أَجِرْنَا مِنَ النَّارِ يَا مُجِيرُ يَا مُجِيرُ يَا مُجِيرُ
tarjumah-“Glory be to Allah, the Owner of all sovereignty and dominion.
Glory be to Allah, the Owner of honor, greatness, awe, power, majesty, and might.
Glory be to the Ever-Living King, who neither sleeps nor dies.
Most Pure and Most Holy is our Lord, the Lord of the angels and the Spirit.
O Allah, protect us from the Hellfire. O Protector, O Protector, O Protector.”
Simple Meaning:
Glory be to Allah, the Owner of sovereignty and dominion, power and greatness. We ask Allah to protect us from the Hellfire.
Note:
This dua is recommended (mustahab), not obligatory. If it is not recited, the Taraweeh prayer is still valid.
How to Pace Your Taraweeh Namaz for Maximum Reward
Taraweeh should be performed at a steady and manageable pace. Balance between physical ability and spiritual focus helps gain greater reward.
Choosing a Comfortable Number of Rakats
Select rakats according to your strength and health. A realistic choice allows consistency throughout Ramadan without exhaustion.
Maintaining Focus and Khushu
Pray with full attention and humility before Allah. Understanding recitation and avoiding haste increases concentration.
Staying Motivated Throughout Ramadan
Set clear spiritual goals for the month. Remember the virtues of night prayer to remain inspired until the end of Ramadan.
Duas to Recite During and After Taraweeh Namaz
During and after Taraweeh, making sincere supplications increases spiritual benefit. These moments are ideal for asking Allah with humility and hope.
Du’a for Forgiveness
Ask Allah to pardon past sins and shortcomings. Seeking forgiveness cleanses the heart and strengthens faith.
Du’a for Acceptance of Worship
Pray that your prayers, fasting, and good deeds are accepted. Acceptance gives value to every act of worship.
Du’a for Guidance and Mercy
Request the straight path and Allah’s kindness in all matters. Divine guidance leads to peace and righteousness.
Du’a for Protection from Hellfire
Beg Allah for safety from punishment and trials. This supplication reflects fear of Allah and trust in His mercy.
Du’a for Jannah
Ask Allah to grant entry into Paradise with His pleasure. Hope for Jannah motivates consistent obedience.
Du’a for All Believers
Remember Muslims around the world in your prayers. Supplicating for others brings unity and multiplied reward.
Reward of Praying Taraweeh Namaz
Taraweeh prayer brings great rewards during the nights of Ramadan. It strengthens faith and draws a believer closer to Allah.
Forgiveness of Past Sins
Sincere Taraweeh helps erase previous mistakes. Allah grants pardon to those who pray with belief and hope.
Spiritual Benefits of Taraweeh
This night prayer purifies the soul and increases mindfulness. Regular observance builds patience, humility, and inner peace.
Conclusion
Taraweeh namaz is a significant prayer performed during the nights of Ramadan, offering believers a chance to strengthen their connection with Allah. It provides spiritual purification, forgiveness for past sins, and an opportunity to seek guidance and mercy. Regular observance of Taraweeh brings inner peace, patience, and increased mindfulness, while also multiplying rewards and enhancing devotion throughout the holy month.
Call to Action
How heedless we are! We don’t observe our prayers regularly throughout the year, but in Ramadan, which is a special month of Allah, the month in which the Quran was revealed, the gates of Paradise are opened for us, and Allah’s mercy showers upon us constantly.
Yet, even in this blessed month, we choose to remain distant from Allah’s mercy. From today, after reading this post, sincerely repent to Allah for your sins and observe your prayers regularly throughout this month and the entire year.
We hope that you will start observing your prayers from today and take full advantage of Allah’s mercy.
We pray to Allah to grant every Muslim good health and success in both worlds. Ameen, Summa Ameen, by the grace of the trustworthy Prophet.
Faqs-Taraweeh Namaz
What is Taraweeh in Ramadan?
Taraweeh is a special night prayer offered during Ramadan after Isha, reciting Qur’an in sets of 2,2…..=20 rakats.
How many rakats are in Taraweeh?
It is usually 20 rakats in the Hanafi school, Witr is prayed after Taraweeh.
Is Taraweeh compulsory for females?
No, Taraweeh is sunnah for women, but they may pray it at home for reward.
Is it haram to skip Taraweeh?
No, skipping Taraweeh is not haram, but praying it is highly recommended for extra reward.
Can a woman pray Taraweeh alone?
Yes, women can pray Taraweeh alone or in a group at home.
How to pray Taraweeh for beginners?
Start with 2 rakats at a time, gradually increase, and recite short Surahs for ease.
Can I pray Taraweeh separately?
Yes, Taraweeh can be prayed individually at home if not attending the mosque.
Can I pray Taraweeh with my phone?
It is better to recite from memory or Mushaf, but using a phone for Qur’an is allowed if needed.
Is Roza valid without Taraweeh?
Yes, fasting (Roza) is valid even without Taraweeh; Taraweeh is voluntary.
Can I use my phone to read the Quran while praying Tahajjud?
Yes, reading from a phone is allowed if it helps you recite correctly.
Can I pray 20 minutes before Fajr?
Yes, any time after Isha until Fajr, including the last part of the night, is valid for voluntary prayers.
Can the Quran be touched without wudu?
Physically touching the Mus’haf without wudu is not allowed, but digital Qur’an on phone can be read without wudu.
Can you sit and read Taraweeh?
Yes, if physically unable to stand, you can pray Taraweeh while sitting.
Can I read the Quran on my phone without a hijab?
Yes, if reading personally, a hijab is not required for reading Qur’an on a phone.
Is Taraweeh 8 or 20 rakats?
Both are practiced; 8 rakats in some schools, 20 rakats in Hanafi fiqh, plus Witr.
Is Taraweeh compulsory?
No, it is sunnah muakkadah—highly recommended but not obligatory.
What are common mistakes in Taraweeh?
Rushing recitation, skipping Witr, not making proper niyyat, or being distracted during prayer.