How to pray Tarawih
Tarawih (literally 'intervals of rest') is the nightly congregational prayer of Ramadan. It is a sunnah mu'akkadah, a strongly-recommended tradition of the Prophet ﷺ. Most congregations pray 20 rak'ahs (with short rests after every 4), though 8 is also well-attested and increasingly common. The Prophet ﷺ led the community in tarawih for a few nights, then stopped out of fear it would become obligatory. 'Umar later re-established it as congregation and the community has prayed it ever since.
After Isha and before Fajr, during Ramadan only
Aloud, in 2-rak'ah units. Often long recitations, the imam typically completes the Qur'an over the month.
8 or 20 rak'ahs, depending on the school
Usually prayed in congregation immediately after the Isha fard. Can be prayed alone at home if the mosque congregation isn't an option.
What makes Tarawih distinct
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Only prayed during the nights of Ramadan, between Isha and Fajr.
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Prayed in 2-rak'ah units. Salam after every 2 rak'ahs.
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Count is 8 or 20 rak'ahs based on madhab. Hanafi, Shafi'i, Hanbali generally pray 20. Some follow 8 based on 'A'ishah's narration.
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Recited aloud by the imam. Imams typically divide the Qur'an into 30 nightly portions (one juz per night).
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Short rests (tarawih literally means rests) are taken after every 4 rak'ahs.
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Followed by Witr at the end of the night.
FAQs about Tarawih
Is tarawih obligatory?+
No. It is a sunnah mu'akkadah, a strongly-confirmed Prophetic practice. The Prophet ﷺ said whoever prays during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins are forgiven. Sahih al-Bukhari 37.
Should I pray 8 or 20?+
Both are valid. The 20-rak'ah count is the majority practice from the time of 'Umar onward. The 8-rak'ah count is supported by 'A'ishah's description of the Prophet's ﷺ own night prayer. Follow your local imam or pray what your school recommends.
Can I pray tarawih at home?+
Yes. If you cannot attend the mosque, pray at home alone or with family. The congregational reward is greater but not the only path.
How long do tarawih prayers take?+
Depends on the imam's recitation. A mosque that completes one juz per night and prays 20 rak'ahs usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Shorter services take 30 to 45 minutes.
Is witr prayed after tarawih?+
Yes. The community prays tarawih first, then a few minutes of dua, then 3 rak'ahs of witr. If you leave early, pray witr at home before sleeping (or before Fajr).
Can women pray tarawih in the mosque?+
Yes. The Prophet ﷺ permitted women to attend night congregations with proper hijab and without perfume.
Learn the full prayer
Every daily prayer builds on the same 2-rak'ah pattern: wudu, the takbir, al-Fatihah, a surah, ruku, sujud, tashahhud, and salam. Learn the complete walkthrough once and every prayer makes sense.