How to Perform Tahajjud and Reap Its Rewards

There is something profoundly special about the stillness of the night. When the world sleeps, and silence blankets the earth, a door to divine closeness opens—an invitation from the Most Merciful. This is the moment of Tahajjud, a voluntary prayer of deep connection, whispered supplications, and spiritual awakening.

For those seeking peace, guidance, and nearness to Allah, Tahajjud is a key that unlocks boundless blessings. But how do we perform it, and what rewards await those who embrace this sacred practice? Let’s explore together.

Understanding Tahajjud

Tahajjud is a voluntary (nafl) prayer performed after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer. It requires waking up in the last third of the night to engage in sincere worship. The beauty of Tahajjud lies not just in the act itself, but in the effort—the sacrifice of sleep, the struggle against comfort, all for the sake of standing before Allah in humility and hope.

How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer

1. Prepare with Intention (Niyyah)
   
   Before sleeping, make a sincere intention to wake up for Tahajjud. This intention alone is an act of devotion, and even if you accidentally oversleep, Allah rewards your sincere effort.
   
   
   
2. Wake Up in the Last Third of the Night
   
   The best time for Tahajjud is the last third of the night, when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and calls out to His servants:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   “Is there anyone who will call upon Me so that I may respond to him? Is there anyone who will ask of Me so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone who will seek My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?” (Sahih Muslim)
   
   
   
   
   
3. Perform Wudu (Ablution)
   
   Cleanse yourself physically and spiritually. Water refreshes not just the body, but the soul, preparing you for a deep spiritual connection.
   
   
   
4. Start with Two Rak’ahs
   
   The minimum number of rak’ahs for Tahajjud is two, but you may pray as many as you desire—four, six, eight, or more. The Prophet ﷺ often prayed eight rak’ahs, followed by Witr.
   
   
   
5. Recite Quran and Make Du’a
   
   Choose verses that resonate with your heart. Some love reciting Surah Al-Mulk, Surah Yaseen, or Ayat-ul-Kursi. After prayer, raise your hands and pour out your heart in du’a. Ask Allah for anything—guidance, forgiveness, relief from worries, success in this world and the Hereafter.
   
   
   
6. End with Witr Prayer
   
   It is recommended to conclude your night prayers with Witr (an odd-numbered prayer: one, three, or five rak’ahs). The Prophet ﷺ said, “Make Witr as your last prayer at night.” (Sahih Bukhari)
   
   
   

The Unmatched Rewards of Tahajjud

1. Closeness to Allah
   
   Those who wake up in the dead of night while others sleep are granted a special nearness to their Creator. They are among the chosen ones whom Allah loves and elevates.
   
   
   
2. Answered Prayers
   
   The night is a time of divine mercy. Whatever you ask for in sincerity, Allah listens. Whether it’s a broken heart seeking solace or a soul yearning for direction, the doors of acceptance are wide open.
   
   
   
3. Increased Iman and Tranquility
   
   The more you pray Tahajjud, the more you’ll feel inner peace, patience, and a heightened sense of faith. It strengthens your heart and clears your mind.
   
   
   
4. Forgiveness and Mercy
   
   The Prophet ﷺ said, “Our Lord descends every night to the lowest heaven when one-third of the night remains and says: ‘Who will call upon Me that I may answer him? Who will ask of Me that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness that I may forgive him?’” (Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
   
   
   
5. Light on the Day of Judgment
   
   Tahajjud serves as a light in the darkness of the Hereafter. It will stand as a witness for you, testifying to your devotion and love for Allah.
   
   
   

Practical Tips to Wake Up for Tahajjud

• Sleep Early: Avoid distractions that keep you awake late into the night.
  
• Set an Alarm: Place it far from your bed so you must get up to turn it off.
  
• Take a Short Nap in the Day: A power nap can help you feel energized at night.
  
• Pray with a Purpose: Remind yourself of the rewards and the feeling of peace that follows.
  
• Ask Allah for Help: If you struggle, make du’a before sleeping. Allah will make it easy for you.
  

The Secret to a Transformed Life

Tahajjud is not just a prayer—it’s a means of transformation. It softens the heart, cleanses the soul, and brings unshakable faith. Those who establish this practice find themselves more patient, more resilient, and more connected to their purpose.

Take that first step tonight. Wake up, stand in prayer, and speak to your Creator. Let the night be your witness, and let your heart find its home in the remembrance of Allah. The rewards are waiting. Will you answer the call?

May Allah grant us the ability to perform Tahajjud consistently and bless us with its rewards. Ameen.