Tarawih (Ramadan Night Prayer)
The voluntary night prayer performed in congregation during Ramadan.
Tarawih (Arabic: تراويح) is a voluntary night prayer performed in congregation at the mosque throughout the month of Ramadan. The word "tarawih" is the plural of "tarwiha", meaning "rest" — because the worshippers rest between each set of rak'ah.
Tarawih is prayed after the Isha prayer and typically consists of 8 or 20 rak'ah, depending on the local tradition and school of law. During Tarawih, the goal is to recite the entire Quran over the course of the Ramadan month, typically one juz' (section) per night.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prayed Tarawih in congregation for a few nights, but then stopped out of concern that it would be made obligatory. Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab later revived the tradition of congregational Tarawih prayer in the mosque.
Tarawih is one of the most beloved traditions during Ramadan and creates a special atmosphere in the mosques, where the entire community gathers for night prayer and Quran recitation.
Related terms
Jannah (Paradise)
The eternal paradise, the reward for faith and good deeds.
Salat al-Layl (Night Prayer)
The voluntary night prayer consisting of 11 rak'ah, highly recommended in Shia Islam.
Du'a Arafah (Imam Husayn's Supplication at Arafah)
Imam Husayn's famous supplication, recited on the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Salat al-Wahsha (The Prayer of Loneliness)
A prayer performed on the first night after burial for the soul of the deceased.
Salat al-Ayat (Prayer of the Signs)
An obligatory prayer performed during natural phenomena such as solar and lunar eclipses.
Umrah (Lesser Pilgrimage)
The lesser pilgrimage to Mecca, which can be performed at any time of the year.