Tahajjud Ki Namaz Ka Tarika (Step-by-Step Guide to Night Prayer)

Today, I want to share something very close to my heart — Tahajjud ki namaz ka tarika. This is not just a prayer; it’s a moment of silence, a secret conversation between you and Allah when the world is asleep. The first time I tried waking up for Tahajjud, I thought it would be difficult. But the calmness, the connection, and the sense of peace I felt made me realize this was something I never wanted to miss again.

If you’ve been searching for how to pray Tahajjud step by step in English, or you’ve always wondered about the right timing and method, then this guide is for you.

What Is Tahajjud Prayer?

Tahajjud is a voluntary prayer performed after Isha (the night prayer) and before Fajr (the dawn prayer). It holds a special place because Allah Himself praises those who rise in the night to worship Him. Unlike other prayers, Tahajjud is prayed in deep silence, when distractions are few, and sincerity shines the most.

Expert Tip: Tahajjud is not obligatory, but it is highly recommended (sunnah). It was a regular practice of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Best Time to Pray Tahajjud

The ideal time for Tahajjud is in the last third of the night. To make it simple, divide the night between Isha and Fajr into three parts:

• First third – Just after Isha prayer (you can start Tahajjud here).

• Second third – Middle of the night.

• Final third – Best time. At this time, Allah’s mercy descends, and He answers prayers more readily.

Real Example: If Isha is at 9 PM and Fajr is at 5 AM, then the last third starts after 3 AM. That’s the most powerful window for Tahajjud.

How Many Rakat in Tahajjud?

• There’s no fixed limit. You can pray 2 rakats minimum, and the Prophet ﷺ often prayed 8 rakats followed by 3 rakats Witr.

• The key is sincerity, not the number. Even 2 rakats prayed with devotion are better than none.

Step-by-Step: Tahajjud Ki Namaz Ka Tarika

Here’s the complete, simple method:

1. Make Niyyah (Intention)

   • In your heart, intend that you’re praying Tahajjud only for the sake of Allah.

   • No specific wording is needed, just sincerity.

2. Start With Wudu (Ablution)

   • Since Tahajjud is a formal prayer, you must be in a state of purity.

3. Begin With Two Rakats

   • Pray as you would in any Salah (Surah Fatiha + another Surah in each rakah).

4. Add More Rakats if You Can

   • Continue in sets of two rakats. You may pray 2, 4, 6, 8, or more.

5. Recite Longer Surahs if Possible

   • Tahajjud is best prayed slowly with long recitations. Even if you only know short surahs, recite them with focus.

6. Make Dua After Prayer

   • The highlight of Tahajjud is personal dua. Raise your hands, pour out your heart, ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and anything you desire.

Pro Insight: Don’t rush. Tahajjud is not about speed but about feeling every word you say.

Sample Simple Niyyah in English

“O Allah, I intend to pray Tahajjud prayer for Your sake only.”

That’s enough. Remember, Islam doesn’t require complicated statements.

What Do You Recite in Tahajjud Prayer?

This is a common question many people ask. The recitation in Tahajjud is the same as in any other Salah:

• First Rak’ah: Surah Fatiha + any Surah (for example, Surah Ikhlas).

• Second Rak’ah: Surah Fatiha + another Surah.

There are no extra compulsory surahs, but the Prophet ﷺ often recited long portions of the Qur’an during Tahajjud. If you can’t, don’t worry — sincerity is what counts.

Benefits of Tahajjud Prayer

Why should you struggle to wake up at night for this prayer? Because the rewards are beyond imagination:

• Stronger Connection with Allah – Tahajjud brings you closer to your Creator.

• Answered Prayers – The last third of the night is a time when duas are accepted.

• Peace of Mind – Many people feel stress-free after praying.

• Forgiveness of Sins – Night prayer wipes away past mistakes.

• Barakah in Life – People who pray Tahajjud often feel their day is more blessed.

Expert Tip: If you have a big decision in life or something troubling your heart, try Tahajjud. It can change everything.

Also Read: Umrah in Ramadan 2025: Benefits Costs and Practical Tips for a Spiritual Journey

People Also Ask: Can I Pray Tahajjud Without Sleeping?

Yes, you can. While the ideal way is to sleep after Isha and wake up later, many scholars agree that if you pray after Isha before sleeping, it still counts as Qiyam-ul-Layl (night prayer). The reward is still great.

Quick Comparison: Tahajjud vs Qiyam-ul-Layl

How to Make Tahajjud a Habit?

1. Sleep early after Isha.
2. Set a small alarm 30 minutes before Fajr.
3. Start with 2 rakats only.
4. Gradually increase when you feel consistent.
5. Remember: Consistency matters more than quantity.

 Even if you pray only 2 rakats regularly, you’re among those mentioned by Allah as His special servants.

FAQs

1. What is the minimum rakats of Tahajjud?

The minimum is 2 rakats, but you can pray more in sets of two.

2. Do I have to sleep before Tahajjud?

Yes, ideally you should sleep, but if you pray right after Isha, it still counts as night prayer (Qiyam-ul-Layl).

3. Can women pray Tahajjud at home?

Absolutely. Women can pray Tahajjud at home, and their reward is just as great as men’s.

4. What should I read in Tahajjud if I don’t know long surahs?

You can recite short surahs like Surah Ikhlas, Surah Falaq, and Surah Nas. What matters most is sincerity.

5. Is Witr part of Tahajjud?

Witr is a separate prayer after Tahajjud, often prayed at the end of the night. It’s highly recommended to complete your night prayer with Witr.

Final Words

Tahajjud ki namaz ka tarika is simple: make intention, pray two rakats after waking up at night, and end with dua. What makes it powerful is not the steps, but the sincerity of your heart.

If you’ve never tried it before, start tonight. Even 5 minutes of Tahajjud can make your life feel lighter, calmer, and more blessed.

Have you ever prayed Tahajjud before? Share your experience in the comments below.