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
Ziyarat al-Jami'ah al-Kabirah
A comprehensive visitation prayer to all twelve Imams, taught by Imam Ali al-Hadi.
Salat al-Ghufaylah (Prayer Between Maghrib and Isha)
A specially recommended prayer prayed between Maghrib and Isha in Shia Islam.
Wudu (Ritual Ablution)
The ritual cleansing with water, required before prayer.
Qunut (Supplication with Raised Hands)
A personal supplication (du'a) with raised hands, recited during the prayer.
Khushu (Humility in Prayer)
Inner humility, focus and devotion during prayer.
Jumu'ah (Friday Prayer)
The weekly congregational prayer on Friday, which replaces Dhuhr.