The Tahajjud prayer is a highly recommended voluntary (Nafl) act of worship in Islam. Performed during the last third of the night, it offers immense spiritual, psychological, and physical benefits. It is a profound means to strengthen one’s connection with Allah and attain blessings in both this life and the Hereafter. Below are the key benefits:
1. Spiritual Benefits
a. Closeness to Allah
Tahajjud allows believers to draw closer to Allah and earn His pleasure. It is highlighted in the Quran:
"And during a part of the night, pray Tahajjud beyond what is incumbent on you; perhaps your Lord will raise you to a position of great glory."
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:79)
b. Forgiveness of Sins
Tahajjud serves as a gateway for seeking forgiveness. In the last third of the night, Allah descends to the lowest heaven and proclaims:
"Is there anyone invoking Me that I may respond to their invocation? Is there anyone asking Me for something that I may grant them? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness that I may forgive them?"
(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
c. Acceptance of Supplications (Duas)
Prayers made during Tahajjud are more likely to be accepted due to the sincerity and effort involved in waking up solely for Allah’s worship.
d. Strengthens Faith (Iman)
Regularly praying Tahajjud deepens one’s reliance on Allah, strengthening faith and fostering spiritual growth.
2. Psychological and Emotional Benefits
a. Inner Peace
The calm and tranquility of the night enhance focus and mindfulness, bringing peace to the heart.
b. Stress Relief
Tahajjud offers a time to reflect, express gratitude, and seek Allah’s assistance, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety.
c. Builds Discipline
Consistently waking up for Tahajjud develops self-discipline and improves time management skills.
d. Emotional Healing
In the solitude of the night, one can share personal struggles with Allah, fostering emotional healing and relief.
3. Physical Benefits
a. Boosts Energy
Despite involving early waking, many people find Tahajjud revitalizing, providing renewed energy for the day ahead.
b. Improves Health
Night prayers and mindfulness have been linked to reduced stress, improved mental health, and better sleep quality.
c. Enhances Productivity
Waking up for Tahajjud fosters a productive routine, allowing one to maximize the blessings of the early morning hours.
4. Social and Ethical Benefits
a. Cultivates Humility
Through Tahajjud, believers demonstrate humility and gratitude, submitting to Allah in the most private and sincere manner.
b. Strengthens Willpower
Waking up for night prayers instills resilience, helping individuals overcome laziness and distractions.
c. Inspires Good Deeds
The blessings (barakah) gained from Tahajjud motivate a person to engage in more righteous actions throughout the day.
Prophetic Teachings on Tahajjud
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) consistently performed Tahajjud and encouraged his followers to do so.
He said:
“The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated:
"The Prophet would stand (in prayer) at night until his feet would swell. I said, 'O Messenger of Allah, why do you do this when Allah has forgiven your past and future sins?' He replied, 'Should I not be a grateful servant?'"
(Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
How to Perform Tahajjud
- Time: The most recommended time is the last third of the night, just before Fajr.
- Rakats: Perform at least two rakats; there is no fixed limit.
- Supplication: After completing the prayer, make sincere duas for personal needs and forgiveness.
- Intention: Pray solely for Allah’s pleasure and nearness.