NIGHT PRAYERS DURING RAMADAN

Introduction

During Ramadan, night prayers—collectively known as Qiyam-ul-Layl (standing in the night)—are among the most meritorious acts of worship. These prayers are voluntary (nafl) but carry the reward of having past sins forgiven if performed with sincere faith and hope for reward.

Taraweeh

Taraweeh is a highly recommended Sunnah prayer performed every night of Ramadan. It is performed after the obligatory evening prayer (Isha) and before the Witr prayer. Typically prayed in sets of 2 rakahs. While the total number can vary (8, 12, or 20 rakahs), many mosques perform 20 rakahs following common traditions. While often prayed in congregation at a mosque, it can also be performed individually or with family at home.

Tahajjud

Tahajjud is performed in the latter part of the night, ideally during the last third, after waking from sleep. It is a deeply personal time for spiritual connection, as it is believed that Allah is closest to His servants during these quiet hours. Like Taraweeh, it is prayed in pairs of 2 rakahs.

Laylat-ul-Qadr

This is the most significant night of Ramadan, occurring in the last ten nights (often believed to be the 27th). The reward is that the worship on this night is "better than a thousand months" of worship elsewhere. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught a specific supplication for this night: "Allahumma innaka afuwwun tuhibbul afwa fa’fu anni" (O Allah, You are All-Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me).

Benefits

Standing in prayer throughout Ramadan leads to the pardoning of previous sins.  These prayers strengthen one's relationship with Allah and purify the soul. Praying in congregation with the Imam until the end is recorded as having prayed the entire night.

Reference

How to Pray Taraweeh? (n.d.). Islamic Relief Canada. https://www.islamicreliefcanada.org/resources/ramadan-for-you/how-to-pray-taraweeh

‌How to pray taraweeh. (2026, February 17). Islamic Relief Worldwide. https://islamic-relief.org/giving/islamic-giving/ramadan/how-to-pray-taraweeh/

‌How To Pray Tahajjud? A Step-by-Step Guide - KALIMAH. (2026, January 19). KALIMAH Center. https://kalimah-center.com/how-to-pray-tahajjud/

‌How to pray tahajjud. (2026, March). Islamic Relief Worldwide. https://islamic-relief.org/knowledge-base/how-to-pray-tahajjud/

‌https://www.muslimaid.org/what-we-do/religious-dues/the-night-of-power-laylat-ul-qadr/#:~:text=Make%20the%20Most%20of%20Laylatul,rewards%20of%20this%20holy%20night.

https://www.muslim-library.com/english/night-prayer-in-ramadan/?lang=Portuguese&download_id=15078#:~:text=Verily%2C%20all%20praise%20is%20due,is%20His%20slave%20and%20Messenger.

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