SHOLAT TARAWIH & WITIR 11 RAKAAT ATAU 23 RAKAAT? - Ustadz Abdul Somad, Lc., MA. Ph.D.

Summary

This video script discusses various aspects of the Tarawih prayer during Ramadan, including the number of rakats, differences across regions, and historical changes. It highlights the practices of famous companions of Prophet Muhammad, such as Abu Bakr, Umar, and Uthman, along with variations in the prayer format, such as the inclusion of Witir. The speaker touches on the importance of combining both long and short recitations, discusses the flexibility of prayer routines, and emphasizes the significance of maintaining regular worship during Ramadan, including Tahajud and other voluntary prayers. The script also addresses cultural differences and provides practical advice on maintaining spiritual focus during Ramadan.

Takeaways

• 😀 The prayer of Tarawih during Ramadan varies in different regions, with some praying 8 rakaat, while others may pray 20 or even 36 rakaat, depending on local practices.
• 😀 The length of Quranic verses influences the number of rakaat: longer verses mean fewer rakaat, while shorter ones lead to more rakaat.
• 😀 The practice of Tarawih prayer evolved over time, with notable changes during the reigns of various caliphs like Umar ibn al-Khattab and Umar ibn Abdul Aziz.
• 😀 Some people mistakenly believe adding additional prayers to Tarawih is a form of 'extra worship', but it is simply a matter of personal practice and community customs.
• 😀 Tarawih prayer in some regions, like Morocco, includes additional rakaat after Isha prayers, leading to variations such as 10 + 3 or even 23 rakaat.
• 😀 Different countries and communities observe Tarawih in unique ways, such as changing the Imam or alternating between different reciters during the night.
• 😀 It is important to understand that the practice of Tarawih, while having variations, is rooted in Islamic tradition and should not lead to disagreements among the faithful.
• 😀 The Witir prayer, which can range from 1 to 9 rakaat, is often performed after Tarawih and may have slight variations in how it is prayed (e.g., one or two salams).
• 😀 The practice of praying during the night, such as Tahajjud, is encouraged after Tarawih, and this includes waking up in the early hours (around 3 AM) for additional prayers.
• 😀 Personal devotion and consistency in performing prayers, like Tahajjud and other Sunna prayers, are emphasized, encouraging a disciplined approach to worship during Ramadan.

Q & A

What is the significance of Tarawih prayer in Ramadan?

The Tarawih prayer is an important ritual in Ramadan, performed after the 'Isha prayer. It is a voluntary prayer that holds great spiritual significance, allowing Muslims to engage in worship and reflection during the holy month.

Why did Umar Bin Khattab change the number of Tarawih rakaats?

Umar Bin Khattab, after observing that people were not praying Tarawih collectively, appointed Ubay bin Ka'b to lead the prayer, and he reduced the number of rakaats to 20. This change aimed to simplify the practice and maintain consistency among the Muslim community.

How does the length of Quranic verses affect the number of rakaats in Tarawih?

According to Sheikh Atiyah Sokor, an Islamic scholar, the number of rakaats in Tarawih depends on the length of the Quranic verses being recited. If the verses are long, fewer rakaats are performed, whereas shorter verses lead to more rakaats.

What is the significance of the different numbers of Tarawih rakaats across regions?

The variations in the number of Tarawih rakaats, such as 8, 20, or even 36, highlight different practices across Islamic communities. These differences reflect historical and cultural variations, but all are valid as long as they are in accordance with Islamic teachings.

Why does the speaker mention different countries like Morocco, Yemen, and Egypt in relation to Tarawih?

The speaker references countries like Morocco, Yemen, and Egypt to demonstrate the diversity in practices of Tarawih prayer. Each region has its own tradition and number of rakaats, showing the flexibility within Islamic worship practices.

What is the role of the Witir prayer after Tarawih?

The Witir prayer is a highly recommended prayer performed after the Tarawih. It consists of an odd number of rakaats, typically 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9. Its purpose is to complete the nightly prayer and is an essential part of the Ramadan rituals.

How does the speaker describe the different practices of performing Witir?

The speaker describes that Witir can be performed in various ways. Some perform it with 1 rakaat, while others pray 3 or 5 rakaats. Additionally, the method of performing Witir can vary, with some following a single salam or multiple salams, depending on the tradition.

What is the importance of not arguing over the number of rakaats in Tarawih?

The speaker emphasizes that Muslims should not argue over the number of rakaats in Tarawih, as there are valid differences in practice. The focus should be on the act of worship itself, not on the details of the number of rakaats.

What advice does the speaker give regarding the behavior during Ramadan, specifically related to after Tarawih prayer?

The speaker advises against spending the time after Tarawih prayer engaging in idle activities like watching TV or chatting. Instead, they encourage focusing on additional prayers like Tahajud and making the most of the spiritual opportunities offered by the night.

Why does the speaker mention the importance of waking up early for Tahajud prayer?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of waking up early for Tahajud prayer as a means of continuing one's spiritual devotion during Ramadan. Tahajud is a highly regarded prayer performed during the night, and the speaker stresses the discipline required to wake up early and engage in this act of worship.