Tahajjud Prayer: How to Pray Like the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

By [Imran Siddiqui] • September 15, 2025 • 6 min read

What is Tahajjud Prayer?

Tahajjud (تَهَجُّد) is the voluntary night prayer, also known as Qiyam al-Layl. It is prayed after Isha and before Fajr. While not obligatory, the Tahajjud prayer is one of the most spiritually rewarding acts in Islam.

The Quran encourages it: “And from [part of] the night, pray with it as additional worship for you…” (Quran 17:79).

Virtues of Tahajjud Prayer

Brings you closer to Allah and strengthens faith.
A time when duas (supplications) are more likely to be answered.
Forgiveness of sins and purification of the soul.
Peace of heart, relief from stress, and spiritual clarity.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that in the last third of every night, Allah calls out: “Who will call upon Me so that I may answer him? Who will ask of Me so that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim).

How the Prophet ﷺ Prayed Tahajjud

He usually prayed 11 rak‘ahs (8 rak‘ahs plus 3 Witr), though fewer are also valid.
The Prophet ﷺ prayed in sets of two rak‘ahs at a time, ending with Witr.
He often recited long surahs with reflection and humility.
His bowing (ruku) and prostration (sujood) were unhurried and sincere.
He sometimes used siwak (tooth-stick) upon waking for Tahajjud.

Step-by-Step: How to Perform Tahajjud Prayer

Make Intention (Niyyah): Decide in your heart to pray Tahajjud for Allah’s sake.
Sleep then wake: Rest after Isha; wake in the last third of the night if possible.
Perform Wudu: Purify yourself with ablution.
Pray in twos: Pray 2 rak‘ahs at a time (2+2+2…), then finish with Witr.
Recite Quran: Read Al-Fatiha and another surah. Longer recitations bring more reward.
Make Dua: After the prayer, sincerely ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and your needs.

Best Time for Tahajjud

The best time for Tahajjud prayer is the last third of the night, just before Fajr. However, any voluntary prayer after Isha and before Fajr counts as Qiyam al-Layl.

Common Questions About Tahajjud

Do I have to sleep first?: Many scholars say yes for true “Tahajjud,” but any prayer after Isha is valuable.
What if I can’t pray much?: Even 2 rak‘ahs of Tahajjud prayed regularly are beloved to Allah.
When should Witr be prayed?: Witr should be the last prayer of the night, prayed before Fajr.

Tips to Build a Tahajjud Habit

Start small with just 2 rak‘ahs and gradually increase.
Sleep early and set an alarm for the last third of the night.
Make dua before sleeping, asking Allah to wake you up.
Stay consistent — even occasional Tahajjud is better than none.

Conclusion

The Tahajjud prayer is a secret act of devotion that connects you deeply with Allah. Whether you pray two rak‘ahs or more, what matters most is sincerity and consistency. Start small, make it regular, and experience the peace, forgiveness, and blessings of praying like the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ at night.