how to offer tahajjud

To offer Tahajjud prayer, follow these steps:

1. Make the Intention (Niyyah)
   Have a sincere intention in your heart to pray Tahajjud to seek closeness to Allah, forgiveness, and guidance. Verbalizing the intention is not required but recommended

2. Choose the Best Time
   Tahajjud is prayed after waking up from sleep during the last third of the night, after Isha prayer and before Fajr prayer. This time is especially blessed for acceptance of supplications

3. Perform Ablution (Wudu)
   Cleanse yourself by performing wudu before starting the prayer

4. Begin the Prayer
   • Stand facing the Qibla with feet shoulder-width apart.
   • Raise your hands and say “Allahu Akbar” to start the prayer (Takbiratul-Ihram)

5. Pray in Units of Two Rak’ahs
   • Each Rak’ah includes:
     • Recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha followed by another Surah or some verses from the Quran.
     • Bowing (Ruku) with “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” three times.
     • Standing up with “Sami’ Allahu liman hamidah” and “Rabbana lakal hamd.”
     • Prostration (Sujood) twice, saying “Subhaana Rabbiy-al-A‘laa” three times each.
     • Sitting briefly between the two prostrations.
   • After two Rak’ahs, sit for Tashahhud and conclude with Salam (turning head right and left saying “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah”)

6. Repeat as Many Rak’ahs as Desired
   • Tahajjud is flexible; pray in pairs of two Rak’ahs. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ often prayed 11 or 13 Rak’ahs including Witr.
   • You can pray as many as you are able, with salam after every two Rak’ahs

7. Conclude with Witr Prayer
   • Witr prayer is the final prayer of the night and can be one, three, or more Rak’ahs.
   • It is highly recommended to end Tahajjud with Witr

8. Recite with Reflection and Devotion
   • Recite slowly and thoughtfully, reflecting on the meanings.
   • You may pray aloud or silently, depending on your situation

9. Make Personal Supplications (Dua)
   • After completing Tahajjud, make heartfelt dua, especially during the last third of the night when prayers are most accepted

10. Optional Enhancements * Include Qunut supplication in the last Rak’ah of Witr if desired. * Combine Quran recitation, dhikr, and personal prayers for a deeper spiritual experience

This method ensures you perform Tahajjud prayer properly and with devotion, strengthening your connection with Allah during the blessed night hours