Comprehensive Definition
TARĀWĪH (تراويح) refers to special additional prayers performed by Sunni Muslims at night in the Islamic month of Ramadan. They hold significant religious importance and are performed in congregation, typically in sets of two, making up to a total of 20 rakʿahs. They signify extra worship and devotion during the sacred period of fasting.
Etymology & Background
The term TARĀWĪH (تراويح) is derived from the Arabic root “رَوَّحَ” (rawwaḥa), meaning “to rest or relax.” The word itself is in plural form from “تَرْوِيحَة” (tarwīḥah), signifying a rest period. Traditionally, after every four rakʿah, the worshippers sit briefly to rest and recite dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
The practice can be traced back to the Prophet Muhammad, who observed these prayers inside his home during Ramadan and later joined the congregational prayers at the mosque for a few nights, as recorded in Hadith collections. During the Caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab, these prayers were institutionalized into regular overnight sessions at mosques.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
There are variations in the number of rakʿahs performed in different cultures:
- Hanafi, Shafi’i, and Hanbali Schools: Usually, 20 rakʿahs are performed.
- Maliki School: It’s common to see 8 rakʿahs plus 3 for Witr, making a total of 11.
Additionally, in some parts of the world, the Tarāwīh are completed with the recitation of one-thirtieth of the Qur’an each night, culminating in the recital of the entire Qur’an by the end of Ramadan.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Qiyam-ul-Layl: Another term referring to the night prayers often performed during Ramadan.
- Tahajjud: Optional late-night prayers which are also highly recommended outside of Ramadan.
- Sunnah Mu’akkadah: Strongly affirmed Sunnah practices that are recommended and hold religious merit.
Exciting Facts
- Tarāwīh prayers are largely considered non-obligatory Sunnah prayers but are widely observed for their spiritual rewards.
- Significant importance is placed on the recitation of the entire Qur’an during these prayers, often referred to as Khatm-ul-Qur’an.
- In most major mosques, the concluding nights of Ramadan see a considerable surge in attendance as they approach Laylat al-Qadr—the night believed to be better than a thousand months.
Quotations from Notable Writers
Ibn Rajab, a classical Islamic scholar, states:
“From the greatest of rewards and acts of reaching towards Allah during Ramadan is the standing in prayer at night (Tarāwīh), one which our Prophet highly encouraged and illuminated for us by example.”
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
Consider exploring:
- “The Purification of the Soul” by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali
- “Fasting in Islam and the Month of Ramadan” by Ali Muhammad Salah
- “Prayers of the Pious” by Omar Suleiman
Quiz Questions about TARĀWĪH (تراويح)
Farewell Thought:
As the soft whispers of Tarāwīh prayers forge chains of illumination towards the heavens, let every night’s devotion cascade into a realm of perennial hope and reflection. May your worship foster an enlightened compassion that radiates throughout the year.
Until next time, Amina Al-Fahad 🌙✨
