What is Tahajjud prayer, what are its virtues, and what are its best times?

Tahajjud prayer begins after the Isha and Taraweeh prayers, but the best time to perform it is in the last third of the night, just before the Fajr prayer.

According to the Egyptian Dar al-Ifta (House of Fatwas), Tahajjud prayer is considered a form of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer), but it is performed after the Muslim has slept for a period of the night and then woken up to pray, which distinguishes it from Taraweeh prayer.

Tahajjud prayer holds a special place during the last ten nights of Ramadan, as Muslims strive to take advantage of these blessed nights, which may include Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), described in the Holy Quran as being better than a thousand months.

Many worshippers are keen to perform Tahajjud prayer in the major mosques across Egypt, where the prayers extend until just before the Fajr prayer, amidst a uniquely spiritual atmosphere filled with supplication and recitation of the Holy Quran.

Tahajjud prayer is performed in sets of two rak'ahs, like other night prayers. A worshipper may pray as many rak'ahs as they wish, concluding with the Witr prayer. Scholars emphasize that the most distinctive features of this prayer are humility, sincerity, and supplication, as the Muslim turns to God in the stillness of the night, seeking mercy and forgiveness.

As Ramadan draws to a close, Tahajjud prayer presents a golden opportunity for believers to reflect on their actions and draw closer to God, in a spiritual atmosphere that illuminates the nights of this blessed month with greater peace and tranquility.