مرحبا بكم في موقع مواقيت الصلاة

The Ultimate Guide to Muslim Qiyam al-Layl Prayer: Everything You Need to Know

Are you finding it challenging to understand the importance and practice of Qiyam al-Layl prayer in Islam? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This essential Islamic worship from the Prophet Muhammad PBUH’s traditions often leaves many seekers perplexed.

This comprehensive guide will clear up any confusion by explaining every aspect of Qiyam al-Layl prayer, from its spiritual implications to practical steps for performing it.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the details of this Prayer so that you can take some action!

Understanding Qiyam al-Layl Prayer

Qiyam al-Layl Prayer is a voluntary prayer performed at night, showing devotion and love for the Creator.

Definition and Significance

Qiyam al-Layl is an Arabic phrase that means “standing during the night.” Muslims perform a voluntary prayer in the third hour of the night, symbolizing their devotion and love for their Creator.

Though not required, it has deep roots in Islamic tradition because Prophet Muhammad PBUH practiced it throughout his prophethood. This nightly devotion significantly impacts a believer’s spiritual journey, and it is more than just a ritual practice.

According to Islamic teachings, Qiyam al-Layl’s transformative power can change one’s destiny and elevate one’s status in Allah SWT’s eyes. Worshiping while others sleep shows a person’s dedication to reaching Allah SWT and achieving self-discipline and enlightenment.

Differentiating Between Qiyam al-Layl, Tahajjud, and Tarawih

The Qiyam al-Layl, Tahajjud, and Tarawih are distinct forms of night prayers in Islam, each with unique attributes and significance. Let’s delve into the variations among these three prayers.

The Importance of Qiyam al-Layl Prayer in Islamic Tradition

Qiyam al-Layl prayer is significant in Islamic tradition, emphasized in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad PBUH.

Its place in the Quran

The Quran, Islam’s holy book, highly values Qiyam al-Layl Prayer. It contains numerous verses that discuss the significance and benefits of praying at night.

The practice is highlighted indirectly through references to individuals who partook in it and through divine commandments.

For instance, Allah SWT advises Prophet Muhammad PBUH to stand in Prayer at night (Surah Al-Muzzamil 73:1-2)

يٰۤاَيُّهَا الۡمُزَّمِّلُۙ ‏قُمِ الَّيۡلَ اِلَّا قَلِيۡلًا نِّصۡفَهٗۤ اَوِ انْقُصۡ مِنۡهُ قَلِيۡلًا ۙ‏

 O you, the (sleeping) enwrapped one! Stand up in Prayer by night, all but a small part of it; half of it, or reduce it a little;

كَانُوا۟ قَلِيلًۭا مِّنَ ٱلَّيْلِ مَا يَهْجَعُونَ .  وَبِٱلْأَسْحَارِ هُمْ يَسْتَغْفِرُونَ

They used to sleep only little in the night, and pray for forgiveness before dawn. (Surah Al-Dhariyat 51:17-18)

Thus illustrating clearly how deeply rooted this virtuous act is within the fabric of Islamic theology.

Its significance in the Sunnah

The Sunnah’s importance of Qiyam al-Layl prayer cannot be understated. The Prophet Muhammad PBUH (peace be upon him) firmly believed in standing in Prayer at night and used to do so regularly.

He frequently performed Qiyam al-Layl with zeal and devotion that his feet would swell.

يَقُولُ قَامَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم حَتَّى تَوَرَّمَتْ قَدَمَاهُ فَقِيلَ لَهُ غَفَرَ اللَّهُ لَكَ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِنْ ذَنْبِكَ وَمَا تَأَخَّرَ قَالَ ‏ “‏ أَفَلاَ أَكُونُ عَبْدًا شَكُورًا ‏”‏‏.‏

The Prophet (ﷺ) used to offer night prayers till his feet became swollen. Somebody told him,” “Allah SWT has forgiven you, your past faults, and those to follow.” He said, “Shouldn’t I be a thankful slave of Allah SWT)?”

 Sahih al-Bukhari 4836

Inspired by his example, the companions followed suit and made Qiyam al-Layl a regular part of their worship routine.

The Prophet emphasized the numerous benefits of this voluntary act, such as soul purification, sin forgiveness, and increased closeness to Allah SWT.

His steadfast devotion to Qiyam al-Layl reminds Muslims today to prioritize this virtuous act of worship and seek its abundant blessings.

The Routine of Prophet Muhammad PBUH for Performing Qiyam al Layl:

Prophet Muhammad PBUH used to perform the Tahajjud prayer. He used to sleep after Isha and then wake up for Tahajjud. Abu Barza narrates that:

أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم كَانَ يَكْرَهُ النَّوْمَ قَبْلَ الْعِشَاءِ وَالْحَدِيثَ بَعْدَهَا‏.‏

Allah SWT’s Messenger (ﷺ) disliked to sleep before the `Isha’ Prayer and to talk after it.

 Sahih al-Bukhari 568

Prophet Muhammad PBUH was an exceptional worshipper. From a narration in Sunan Abi Dawud 874, we can estimate how much time he spent praying Tahajjud.

This hadith was narrated by Abu hudayfah R.A, who stated that Prophet Muhammad PBUH used to pray four surahs in four rakahs, namely Surah al-Baqarah, Aal Imran, an-Nisa, al-Ma’idah, or al-An’am. These surahs are roughly equivalent to 4 or 5 juz of the Quran.

It is evident that Prophet Muhammad PBUH recited the Quran slowly as he used to give importance to each ayah.

If you patiently recite five juz of the Quran, it will take you approximately 3, 4, or maybe 5 hours. This also explains why his feet grew swollen during Tahajjud.

How to Perform Qiyam al-Layl Prayer

Begin by mentally and physically preparing yourself for the Prayer of Qiyam al-Layl. Then, perform the Qiyam al-Layl prayer procedure with complete concentration and devotion.

Preparing for the Prayer

• Find a Quiet and Peaceful Place: Designate an area in your home or mosque for Qiyam al-Layl prayer that is free of distractions.
• Purify Yourself: Before beginning the Prayer, perform ablution (wudu) to ensure you are physically and spiritually clean.
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Dress modestly and in loose-fitting clothing that will not distract you from your Prayer.
• Set the Right Intention: Before beginning the Prayer, remind yourself of the purpose of Qiyam al-Layl: to seek closeness to Allah SWT and spiritual growth.
• Begin by reciting the relevant dua (supplication) for entering the prayer area and seeking refuge from Satan.
• Gather Your Prayer Supplies: For Qiyam al-Layl prayer, keep a Quran, tasbih (prayer beads), and a small booklet of suggested supplications nearby.
• Create a Calm Environment: Dim the lights or light candles to create a serene environment conducive to Prayer, and make sure there are no distractions nearby, such as loud noises or electronic devices.
• Mentally Prepare Yourself: Before beginning the Prayer, take a few moments to clear your mind and focus solely on your connection with Allah SWT.
• Seek Forgiveness: Before performing the Qiyam al-Layl prayer, prioritize seeking forgiveness for any sins committed, as it is an appropriate time to repent and ask Allah SWT’s mercy.
• Remember Your Goal: Remember the immense benefits of Qiyam al-Layl prayer and approach it with sincerity, gratitude, and humility.
• Begin with Bismillah: Begin each rak’ah (unit) of Qiyam al-Layl prayer by saying “Bismillah” (in the name of Allah SWT).
• Be Aware of Time: Qiyam al-Layl prayer can be performed anytime between Isha and Fajr prayers, so plan and allocate time accordingly.

Remember, preparing for Qiyam al-Layl prayer involves both physical and mental readiness. Take the necessary steps to create a sacred space and mindset that allows you to engage in this blessed act of worship.

The Actual Prayer Procedure

The Qiyam al-Layl prayer is performed like all the other prayers. The only difference is of time and niyyah (intention). Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform the Qiyam al-Layl prayer:

• Start by making the intention in your heart to perform the Qiyam al-Layl prayer sincerely for the sake of Allah SWT.
• Begin by performing ablution (wudu) just like you would for any other prayer. Sunan Abi Dawud 171
• Find a clean and quiet place to pray where you can concentrate and have privacy.
• Stand facing the qibla (direction of Mecca) and raise your hands to your shoulders, saying “Allahu Akbar” (Allah SWT is the greatest) silently or out loud. Book 2, Hadith 155
• Place your right hand over your left hand on your chest and recite the opening supplication (du’a). Sunan Abi Dawud 759
• Start with Dua of Istiftah .سُبْحَانَكَ اللّٰهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ ، وَتَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ ، وَتَعَالَىٰ جَدُّكَ ، وَلَا إِلٰهَ غَيْرُكَ (it is only recited in the first Rakah)  Sunan an-Nasa’i 900
• Begin the first unit (rak’ah) of the Qiyam al-Layl prayer by saying (Bismillah ir-Rahmaan ir-Raheem. Now recite Surah Al–Fatiha, followed by any other portion of the Quran that you feel comfortable with or have memorized. Book 2, Hadith 172, Sahih Muslim 396c
• Then, bow down into the ruk’uh position while saying “Subhana rabbiyal ‘atheem” (Glory be to my Lord, The Almighty). Stay in this position briefly. Riyad as-Salihin 1175
• Return to an upright position and say, “Sami Allahu liman hamidah” (Allah SWT hears those who praise Him). Then say, “Rabbana wa laka alhamd” (Our Lord, all praise is due to You). Sunan an-Nasa’i 1072, Sunan Ibn Majah 877
• Prostrate yourself into sujood, saying “Subhana rabbiyal ‘ala” (Glory be to my Lord, The Most High). Stay in this position briefly before rising back up. Sunan an-Nasa’i 1046
• Sit momentarily between the two prostrations while saying “Rabbighfirli” (O Lord, forgive me). Sunan Ibn Majah 897
• Repeat steps 7 – 10 for the second unit of Qiyam al-Layl prayer.
• After completing the final prostration of the second unit, sit down and recite the tashahhud (testimony of faith), Durood-e-Ibrahimi, and supplications (du’a). Sahih al-Bukhari 831
• End the Prayer by turning your face to the right and saying “Assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah” (Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah SWT). Then, turn your face to the left and repeat the exact phrase. Jami` at-Tirmidhi 295

Important Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Begin Qiyam al-Layl with the intention (niyyah) of drawing closer to Allah SWT and gaining spiritual benefits.
• To maximize Qiyam al-Layl’s rewards, recite longer Surahs.
• Keep prostrating (sujood) and ask Allah SWT for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
• Find a private place to pray to maintain humility and avoid distractions.
• Prophet Muhammad PBUH advised concluding the Qiyam al-Layl prayer with the Witr prayer. (Praying Witr in Qiyam is unnecessary if you prayed it already with the Isha prayer.)

Don’ts:

• Only Perform the Qiyam al-Layl prayer with an understanding of its significance in Islam.
• Keep yourself away from electronics or noise during the Qiyam al-Layl prayer.
• Don’t neglect or underestimate the power of supplication during prostration; pour out your heart to Allah SWT.

Remember to seek knowledge about Qiyam al-Layl prayer’s virtues, benefits, and proper performance for motivation and commitment.

The Spiritual and Worldly Benefits of Qiyam al-Layl Prayer

Qiyam al-Layl Prayer offers numerous spiritual and worldly benefits, including the path to Paradise, expiation of sins, witness by angels, and inclusion among the truthful and martyrs.

A Path to Paradise

Praying Qiyam al-Layl is not only a way to gain closer proximity to Allah SWT and spiritual purification, but it is also a path to Paradise.

The Qur’an emphasizes the importance of Qiyam al-Layl in achieving eternal bliss by mentioning the rewards and blessings that await those who pray.

In Surah Furqan (25:64-66) Allah has described the traits of true believers in the following ayah:

 وَٱلَّذِينَ يَبِيتُونَ لِرَبِّهِمْ سُجَّدًۭا وَقِيَـٰمًۭا ٦٤ وَٱلَّذِينَ يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا ٱصْرِفْ عَنَّا عَذَابَ جَهَنَّمَ ۖ إِنَّ عَذَابَهَا كَانَ غَرَامًا

˹They are˺ those who spend ˹a good portion of˺ the night prostrating themselves and standing before their Lord.  ˹They are˺ those who pray, “Our Lord! Keep the punishment of Hell away from us, for its punishment is indeed unrelenting.

Offering this voluntary Prayer regularly demonstrates our devotion and love for the Creator, and it has the power to change our fate and elevate our status in the eyes of Allah SWT.

We strengthen our faith, seek forgiveness, and strive to live a righteous life that brings us closer to Jannah (Paradise) by participating in this beloved worship.

An Expiation of and Protection from Sin

Performing Qiyam al-Layl prayer seeks forgiveness for past sins and protects against future wrongdoing. This voluntary night prayer allows believers to atone for their sins and seek the mercy and forgiveness of Allah SWT.

‏”‏ عَلَيْكُمْ بِقِيَامِ اللَّيْلِ فَإِنَّهُ دَأْبُ الصَّالِحِينَ قَبْلَكُمْ وَهُوَ قُرْبَةٌ إِلَى رَبِّكُمْ وَمَكْفَرَةٌ لِلسَّيِّئَاتِ وَمَنْهَاةٌ لِلإِثْمِ ‏”‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو عِيسَى وَهَذَا أَصَحُّ مِنْ حَدِيثِ أَبِي إِدْرِيسَ عَنْ بِلاَلٍ

“Hold fast to Qiyam al-Lail, for it is the practice of the righteous before you, and indeed Qiyam al-Lail is a means of nearness to Allah SWT, a means of prevention from sin, an expiation for bad deeds, and a barrier for the body against disease.”

Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3549 (Da’if)

Standing in front of Allah SWT late at night, sincerely devoting oneself to worship, and asking for forgiveness can cleanse one’s heart and soul of the burdens of sin.

Humbly bowing down before Allah SWT during Qiyam al-Layl strengthens one’s conscience and resolve to avoid sinful behaviors as one strives to please Allah SWT and live according to His commands.

Being Witnessed by the Angels

Something extraordinary occurs during the Qiyam al-Layl prayer: the angels witness our devotion. The angels approach us as we stand in Prayer, reciting verses from the Qur’an and seeking closeness to Allah SWT.

There is a hadith in which Prophet Muhammad PBUH commanded believers to pray as Angels witness us at the end of the night.

   “‏ مَنْ خَافَ أَنْ لاَ يَقُومَ مِنْ آخِرِ اللَّيْلِ فَلْيُوتِرْ أَوَّلَهُ وَمَنْ طَمِعَ أَنْ يَقُومَ آخِرَهُ فَلْيُوتِرْ آخِرَ اللَّيْلِ فَإِنَّ صَلاَةَ آخِرِ اللَّيْلِ مَشْهُودَةٌ وَذَلِكَ أَفْضَلُ ‏”

If anyone is afraid that he may not get up in the latter part of the night, he should observe Witr in the first part of it, and if anyone is eager to get up in the last part of it, he should observe Witr at the end of the night, for Prayer at the end of the night is witnessed (by the angels) and that is preferable. Sahih Muslim 755a

They witness our worship and supplication, recording these precious moments of connection with our Creator SWT. This divine presence brings peace and serenity, knowing we are not alone in our spiritual journey.

During Qiyam al-Layl prayer, having celestial beings observe and record our dedication to Allah SWT is humbling. Let’s make every moment count and keep our intentions pure as we engage in this noble act of worship.

Strengthens our relationship with Allah SWT

Allah SWT commanded Prophet Muhammad PBUH in the initial revelation verses (Surah Muzammil) of the Quran to pray Qiyam al-Layl because, at that time, he needed spiritual strength to bear the weight of that enormous responsibility.

If you want to strengthen your relationship with Allah SWT, Qiyam al-Layl is the most profound way to do so. This Prayer is so sacred because no one is watching you, and there are no distractions that could disrupt your connection with Allah SWT. It represents pure love and devotion.

Develops strong impulsive control

Because of our impulses, we humans fall into sins, and Satan always uses them against us. We must develop solid impulsive control to not act on a thought to protect ourselves from evil.

In that case, getting up for Qiyam al-Layl is an excellent way to strengthen impulse control.

After 90 minutes of sleep, we enter deep sleep mode, and waking up from it is difficult, which crushes our impulses (nafs) and makes us spiritually stronger.

Prayers and Duas get accepted

“‏ يَنْزِلُ رَبُّنَا تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَى كُلَّ لَيْلَةٍ إِلَى السَّمَاءِ الدُّنْيَا حِينَ يَبْقَى ثُلُثُ اللَّيْلِ الآخِرُ يَقُولُ مَنْ يَدْعُونِي فَأَسْتَجِيبَ لَهُ مَنْ يَسْأَلُنِي فَأُعْطِيَهُ مَنْ يَسْتَغْفِرُنِي فَأَغْفِرَ لَهُ ‏”‏‏.‏

“Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes every night down on the nearest Heaven to us when the last third of the night remains, saying: “Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me so I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?”

 Sahih al-Bukhari 1145

Although Allah SWT has commanded us to make Dua numerous times in the Quran, he specifically told us in this hadith to ask from him during Qiyam al-Layl (Tahajjud).

The Role of Qiyam al-Layl Prayer in Muslim Community

Qiyam al-Layl’s Prayer is vital in fostering family togetherness and strengthening the Muslim community. Read more to deepen your understanding of this critical practice.

Encouraging Family Togetherness

The Qiyam al-Layl prayer is not just about praying alone; it brings families together within the Muslim community.

Gathering with family and friends for Qiyam al-Layl prayer allows for shared spiritual growth and strengthens familial bonds.

Families can support each other in their devotion to Allah SWT by praying together at night, encouraging one another to perform Qiyam al-Layl consistently, and creating a loving environment rooted in faith.

This late-night group worship doesn’t just stay within those moments. It fosters a sense of togetherness that impacts our daily routines, too. It’s like we’re all in sync, in a beautiful unity.

Families find solace in this shared spirituality. It’s not just about getting closer to Allah SWT but also getting more relative to one another, and that’s just incredible.

The Practice Among Pious Predecessors

Prophet Muhammad PBUH declared the Qiyam al-Layl an essential practice of the righteous people even before the arrival of Islam.

‏”‏ عَلَيْكُمْ بِقِيَامِ اللَّيْلِ فَإِنَّهُ دَأْبُ الصَّالِحِينَ قَبْلَكُمْ وَهُوَ قُرْبَةٌ إِلَى رَبِّكُمْ وَمَكْفَرَةٌ لِلسَّيِّئَاتِ وَمَنْهَاةٌ لِلإِثْمِ ‏”‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو عِيسَى وَهَذَا أَصَحُّ مِنْ حَدِيثِ أَبِي إِدْرِيسَ عَنْ بِلاَلٍ

“Hold fast to Qiyam al-Lail, for it is the practice of the righteous before you, and indeed Qiyam al-Lail is a means of nearness to Allah SWT, a means of prevention from sin, an expiation for bad deeds, and a barrier for the body against disease.”

Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3549 (Da’if)

They recognized its significance in their pursuit of Allah SWT’s closeness and used it to strengthen their relationship with Him. These devout people would wake up in the middle of the night, even if only for a few minutes, to perform the Qiyam al-Layl prayer.

They believed that this devotion brought about spiritual enlightenment and guidance in their lives. By following in the footsteps of these pious predecessors, Muslims today can also experience the immense benefits and blessings associated with the Qiyam al-Layl prayer.

Conclusion

The Muslim Qiyam al-Layl prayer is essential to Islamic tradition and provides numerous spiritual and material benefits.

Understanding its significance, learning the proper procedure, and striving for consistency in performing this blessed act of devotion can help one connect with Allah SWT, seek forgiveness for one’s sins, and achieve success in this life and the next.

So embrace the beauty of Qiyam al-Layl prayer, learn about it, make it a habit, and witness the transformative power it brings to your faith journey.

FAQs

What is the Qiyam al-Layl prayer, and why is it significant in Islam?

The Night Prayer, or Qiyam al-Layl prayer, is a voluntary prayer performed after Isha’ and before Fajr. It is essential in Islam because it allows believers to seek closeness to Allah SWT, spiritual purification, and extra rewards.

How should one prepare for Qiyam al-Layl prayer?

To prepare for Qiyam al-Layl prayer, make a sincere intention, perform ablution (wudu), select a suitable place of worship or create a peaceful environment at home, begin your Prayer, and mentally focus on connecting with Allah SWT during this particular time of devotion.

Can women perform Qiyam al-Layl prayer at home?

Yes! Women are encouraged to perform acts of worship at home, such as Qiyam al-Layl prayers. While women’s congregational prayers have traditionally been held in separate areas of mosques, performing Qiyam al-Layl individually or with family members at home is equally respected and spiritually fulfilling.

Are there any specific recommended practices during Qiyam al-Layl prayer?

It is recommended to recite more extended portions of the Quran than usual during Qiyam al-Layl prayer because this form of voluntary night worship encourages more profound reflection on Allah SWT’s guidance in these verses.

Engaging in supplications (duas), sincerely seeking forgiveness from sins, and prolonging prostration are all encouraged acts to strengthen spiritual connection during this blessed form of devotion.