The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The best of prayers after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.” (Sahih Muslim), underscoring the significance of this act. Unlike the daily prayers that are performed at set times, Tahajjud is an intimate expression of devotion. The night is a special time when Allah’s mercy and blessings are abundant. The Qur’an mentions, “and prostrate before Him during part of the night,1 and glorify Him long at night.” (Qur’an, 76:26). This verse highlights the importance of using the night for worship, a time when hearts can be softened and the mind can be fully engaged in supplication.
Tahajjud is not only about the physical act of prayer but also the spiritual benefits it brings. It is a time for personal reflection and self-purification. During these moments of solitude, one can seek forgiveness, ask for guidance, and make heartfelt du'a (supplication) for both themselves and others. The practice allows the believer to confront their flaws, reflect on their actions, and renew their commitment to Allah. In the quiet of the night, the heart becomes receptive to Allah's mercy and answers to prayers.
Furthermore, performing Tahajjud helps cultivate patience, humility, and dedication. It requires the effort of waking up in the middle of the night, which is a sacrifice that Allah rewards generously. This sacrifice is an indication of the believer’s desire to please Allah above all else. Tahajjud is also a means of strengthening the believer’s resolve, allowing them to face the challenges of life with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
Implementing Tahajjud into our lives can be challenging, especially with the demands of daily schedules, but it is entirely possible with a little intention and planning. Here are several practical steps to incorporate this beautiful practice:
Start by choosing a specific time in the night for Tahajjud, preferably in the last third of the night, as this is when Allah’s mercy is most abundant. You don’t have to begin with long hours; even two rak'ahs can make a difference. Gradually increase the number of rak'ahs as you become accustomed to waking up for this prayer.
Establishing a good routine before bed can help you wake up for Tahajjud. Try to sleep early and make the intention to wake up for prayer before you fall asleep. It may also be helpful to set an alarm or ask someone to wake you. Additionally, avoid consuming heavy meals or distractions like phone use before sleep, which can disrupt the quality of your rest.
If you are new to Tahajjud, it’s fine to begin with short prayers. The Prophet (PBUH) recommended that the best prayers are those that are done consistently, even if brief. Start with the two rak'ahs of Tahajjud, and as you grow more comfortable, gradually increase the number of rak'ahs.
Tahajjud is not just about the physical acts of prayer; it’s a time to speak directly to Allah. Use this time to make du’a for your personal needs, for the well-being of others, and to ask for guidance in any area of your life. Being open with Allah and expressing your hopes, fears, and gratitude is one of the greatest blessings of this prayer.
Tahajjud is more than just a prayer; it’s a deeply personal act of devotion that strengthens our relationship with Allah and enhances our spirituality. It allows us to reconnect with the Divine in a way that is beyond the rush of everyday life. By implementing this practice into our lives, even in small steps, we can experience the profound peace and mercy that comes from seeking closeness to Allah in the quiet of the night. The journey towards Tahajjud is one of both struggle and reward, and through it, we can find a sense of tranquility and purpose that lasts long after the night is over.