Comprehensive Definition
WITR (وتر): An Arabic term meaning “odd number,” referring to an odd number of rakʿahs (units of Islamic prayer), such as 3, 5, or 7. These rakʿahs are performed after the last Islamic nightly prayer (Ṣalātu ʾl-ʿIshā) and before dawn (Fajr).
Etymology and Background
Etymology: ‘Witr’ in Arabic directly translates to “odd number,” deriving from the root word “و ت ر” (waaw, taa, raa).
Background: Witr prayer’s institution originates from the Prophet Muhammad’s tradition, thus not directly mentioned in the Qur’ān. Over time, it became vital through sayings (Hadith) emphasizing its practice. Various scholars, like Imam Abu Hanifah, noted its importance and regarded it as wājib (compulsory), while Imam Shāfaʿī considers it a sunnah (voluntary but highly recommended).
Cultural Significance
Across cultures within the Islamic ummah, there’s unanimous respect and observance for witr prayers, but the practice and belief in its necessity vary:
- Hanafi School: Emphasizes witr as obligatory (wājib).
- Shafi’i, Maliki, Hanbali Schools: View it as sunnah.
Commonality: Regardless of the variance, witr is partaken after the ‘Isha prayer signifying a closure to their day’s worship.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Odd-numbered Prayer: Signifying its base element of an odd count.
- Witr Salat: Hebrew practice equating with Muslim’s night devotion.
Antonyms:
- Even-numbered Prayer: Generally, regular prayers including 2 or 4 rak’ahs like Ṣalāt Ad-Duhr.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Ṣalātu ʾl-ʿIshā (صلاة العشاء): The Islamic nightly prayer observed after sunset but before dawn.
- Ṣalāt (صلاة): General term for the obligatory Islamic prayers observed five times a day.
- Hadith (حديث): Records/sayings of Prophet Muhammad, often prescribing traditions and exemplified behaviors.
- Ṣalātu ʾl-Witr (صلاة الوتر): Often termed completely describing the method and form of the Witr prayer.
Exciting Facts
- ✨ In Islamic belief, God is seen as singular (odd), hence enjoys odd numbers.
- 🕌 Historically, even the early adopters in Islam consistently observed Witr prayers, setting a communal tradition.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“And perform witr as God has added this prayer for you.” — Prophet Muhammad, recorded in tradition, emphasizing the exclusive addition to prescribed prayers as divine order.
Reference Suggestion
- “The Book of Hadith: Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad” by Charles Le Gai Eaton
- “Fiqh Us-Sunnah Vol. 1: Fiqh Regarding Worship and Purification” by Sayyid Sabiq
Suggested Literature and Further Studies
- “Understanding Islamic Prayer: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide” by Ibrahim J. Long:
- Comprehensive guide covering varied Islamic prayer types.
- “The Night Vigil: Ian Reader on Salatul-Lail and Witr”:
- Academic inquiry looking into night prayers’ different elements and significances.
- “The Roots of Islamic Mysticism” by Annemarie Schimmel:
- Spiritual deep dive locating the root present in these practices.
Feel enlightened about the meaning and significance of WITR prayer in your spiritual journey. Seek deeper understanding knowing that every breath counts towards your faith.
Ibrahim Al-Rahman
May your understanding lead you to further faith and devotion
05-October-2023
