How to Cope through Taraweeh Prayers

by Musa Bukhari

As we enter the last 10 nights of Ramadan, it’s important that we try and make the most out of these blessed nights. One aspect that makes Ramadan so unique are the Taraweeh prayers. These prayers are a special part of Ramadan. It is here that Muslims pray in congregation, as the imam recites a portion of the Quran daily until its completion during the end of Ramadan. It can however, sometimes become strenuous when standing in prayer for over an hour every night after fasting for over 18 hours a day. It is therefore, imperative that we prepare for this with some tips that will help make the experience more enjoyable as much as it is spiritually rewarding.

1. Make your intention clear

Like with most things in life, it is always important to clarify your intention and when you find yourself struggling, to renew your intentions. Use this experience as an opportunity, a means to come closer to Allah and ponder over the Quran.

2. Take a small nap

During the day, it is encouraged to take a nap post dhuhr, but as most people work, this is not always feasible. Try to sleep for a short period of time just after Asr, before iftar. We are often awake during the nights of Ramadan, as we try to seek Laylat al Qadr, so sleeping for a short period will give you the boost you need to excel in your ibadah.

3. Make a dua list

During the prayers, you have the perfect opportunity to make dua during sujood. This will give you the increased determination to make the prayers, if you know you can use the time to ask Allah for what you really want. It is a sacred and special place between you and Allah. Treasure it.

Abu Huraira (ra) reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The servant is nearest to his Lord during prostration, so increase your supplications therein.” [Muslim]

4. Eat healthy and stay hydrated

It is very important to eat healthy during your iftar. Consuming foods that have been fried will leave you feeling fatigued during your prayer. Make sure you bring a bottle of water with you to the masjid so you can keep cool, as the large congregation can get very hot.

5. Read the translation of the Quran

Before you attend the Taraweeh prayers, try to read the translation of the Quran of the ayat (verses) the Imam will recite, beforehand. This will intensify your experience and increase your concentration as you engage with the words being recited.

6. Attend with a friend/family member

Take someone with you to the masjid, be it a friend or family member and realise the rewards you can obtain. This will help, as you will have someone with you giving you a sense of security and safety in numbers. This will also help ease the traffic congestion post-prayers, and the less cars on the road means it is better for the environment. Not only will you get the reward of taking someone to the House of Allah,but you will also be completing a Sunnah of performing the prayers.

Try your best to keep up with these tips to attain maximum benefits and rewards out of the Taraweah prayers. Keep positive and know that preparing beforehand will impact your concentration in the prayer more effectively.

May Allah bless us all in this last 10 nights and allow us to leave Ramadan transformed in the most profound way, in all aspects of our lives, Ameen.

This Ramadan, we’ve prepared a whole host of projects that you can support with your Zakat. And when you check the Gift Aid Box they’re completely admin fee-free, with 100% of your donation going to the people who need it most.

Your Zakat this year could install a well in a drought-hit community, or support a child living on the streets for a whole year, or provide a person with a new, sustainable livelihood.

Come, explore our projects, and give your Zakat in month of multiplied blessings.

https://humanappeal.org.uk/appeals/ramadan