Meaning
Tarawih
تَرَاوِيح
tarawih · ta-ra-weeh
Tarawih is the special congregational night prayer performed during Ramadan, typically after the Isha prayer, in which lengthy portions of the Qur'an are often recited.
Alternative Spelling
Tarawih / Taraweeh / Tarawee / Taraweh / Tarawih Prayer
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What is Tarawih?
Tarawih comes from the Arabic root r-w-h, associated with rest or taking a pause, since worshippers traditionally rested briefly between each set of four rakahs during the prayer. Over time, the term came to describe the entire night prayer performed specifically during Ramadan, distinguishing it from ordinary voluntary night prayers observed throughout the year.
Theologically, Tarawih reflects the heightened spirit of devotion unique to Ramadan, a month already set apart by fasting, increased charity, and Qur'anic recitation. While not obligatory, it holds a special status as a communal expression of worship that many scholars strongly encourage, tied closely to the broader concept of qiyam al-layl, or standing in prayer at night.
Historically, the Prophet ﷺ prayed this night prayer individually and occasionally with a small group of companions, but stopped leading it regularly in congregation out of concern it might be mistakenly considered obligatory. It was later formalized into a regular congregational practice during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab, establishing the tradition largely recognized today in mosques worldwide.
Spiritually, Tarawih offers believers an immersive experience of the Qur'an, as many mosques structure nightly recitation to complete the entire text by the end of Ramadan. This extended listening and standing in prayer cultivates humility, patience, and a deepened connection to the divine words being recited.
In contemporary practice, Tarawih draws large congregations to mosques throughout Ramadan, with many Muslims making special effort to attend nightly, particularly increasing their devotion and prayer length during the last ten nights in pursuit of Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree.
Examples of Tarawih
- Nightly mosque attendance: Gathering in congregation each night of Ramadan to pray Tarawih after Isha.
- Completing the Qur'an: Many mosques structure their Tarawih recitation to finish the entire Qur'an by the end of Ramadan.
- Concluding with Witr: Ending the Tarawih prayer with the Witr prayer as is customary.
- Seeking Laylat al-Qadr: Increasing devotion and prayer length in Tarawih during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
References in Qur'an & Hadith
"So recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an..." — Surah Al-Muzzammil 73:20
"Is one who is devoutly obedient during periods of the night, prostrating and standing [in prayer], fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, [like one who does not]?..." — Surah Az-Zumar 39:9
The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever stands [in prayer] during Ramadan out of faith and hope for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." — Sahih al-Bukhari 37
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tarawih prayer?
Tarawih is a special voluntary night prayer offered during the nights of Ramadan, usually performed in congregation after the Isha prayer.
Is Tarawih obligatory?
No, Tarawih is not obligatory; it is a highly recommended Sunnah prayer performed throughout the month of Ramadan.
How many rakahs are prayed in Tarawih?
Common practices include 8 or 20 rakahs, depending on tradition and community, typically followed by the Witr prayer.
When is Tarawih prayed?
Tarawih is prayed after the Isha prayer on the nights of Ramadan, often continuing into the later hours of the night.
Why is Tarawih significant during Ramadan?
Tarawih allows many Muslims to hear or complete large portions of the Qur'an in congregation and increases collective worship during Ramadan's blessed nights.