Unlocking the Blessings: A Comprehensive Guide to Tahajjud Time

The Significance of Tahajjud

A true Momin (believer) is one who wakes up in the middle of the night when the rest of the world is asleep and spends his night in the remembrance of Allah. Tahajjud, the night prayer, holds a special place in Islamic spirituality, offering numerous benefits for both this world and the hereafter.

​Spiritual Benefits of Tahajjud

Tahajjud is not just a prayer but a profound journey of spirituality. Performing night prayers helps purify the soul, makes a person humble, sheds sins, and helps in refraining from future sins. It is known to increase sustenance, give a glowing face, and ensure the acceptance of supplications by Allah. The effects of Tahajjud extend to personality, spirituality, worldly matters, and the hereafter.

Quranic and Ahadees References

The importance of Tahajjud is emphasized in the Quran and Hadith. Allah says in Surah Insan, verse 26:

"And worship Him (Allah) for a watch of the night and glorify Him (Allah) the night long."

Imam Reza (as) interprets this verse as a reference to night prayers. The benefits are echoed in the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (sawa) and other revered figures:

Imam Reza (as) said: "Night prayer increases human sustenance." (Wasa'yl Shia, vol. 5, 272)

Prophet Muhammad (sawa) said: "Night prayer is a weapon against the enemies." (Biharul Anwar, vol. 87, 161)

Imam Baqir (as): "Allah loves one who holds vigil by praying at night." (Biharul Anwar, vol. 76, 60)

Allama Sayed Ali Qazi (ra) advised that whether one seeks success in this world or the hereafter, performing night prayers is essential.

How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer

Tahajjud consists of 11 Rak'ats in total. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1) 8 Rak'ats (Nafila Prayer): Perform in sets of 2 Rak'ats each, similar to regular Nafila prayers.

2) 2 Rak'ats Shafah:

 First Rak'at: Surah Alhamd + Surah Tawheed + Surah Naas

 Second Rak'at: Surah Alhamd + Surah Tawheed + Surah Falaq

3) 1 Rak'at Witr:

Surah Alhamd + 3 times Surah Tawheed + Surah Falaq + Surah Naas

Qunoot in Witr Prayer

In the Qunoot of Witr, repeat the following:

40 times: “Allahummaghfirli wa lil-mu'mineena wal-mu'minat wa lil-muslimeena wal muslimaat” (or use the names of 40 Momineen such as friends, scholars, family members)

70 times: "Astaghfirullahe rabbi wa atubu ilaihe"

7 times: "Haazaa maqaam al-aeyiza beka minan-naar"

300 times: "Al'af"

1 time: "Rabbi Aghferli warhamni wa tab alaa innaka anta-tawaab ul-ghafoor raheem"

Easy Way to Start Salat-ul-Layl

Starting Tahajjud may seem daunting, but it can be made simple. Begin with just 1 unit of Witr for the first week. Gradually add 2 units of Shafah in the second week. Continue to add the remaining 8 units over time. This gradual approach makes it easier to incorporate Tahajjud into your nightly routine.

Conclusion

Tahajjud is a profound act of worship that brings numerous spiritual and worldly benefits, anyone can incorporate this blessed prayer into their life. Remember, the effort to wake up in the quiet of the night and stand before Allah brings immense rewards and closeness to the Divine!

Embrace the tranquility of Tahajjud time and let it transform your spiritual journey.