Taraweeh Namaz: My First Experience in Lockdown
What is Taraweeh Namaz?
Taraweeh namaz is one of the most beautiful and emotionally uplifting prayers I’ve experienced in my journey as a New muslim. It’s a special prayer performed during the holy month of Ramadan, a time when Muslims across the world come together to strengthen their connection with Allah swt. The word “Taraweeh” comes from the Arabic root meaning “to rest or relax”, which is fitting because the prayer includes short breaks to allow worshippers to rejuvenate.
Unlike other prayers, this namaz is exclusive to Ramadan and is a means of gaining immense blessings and closeness to Allah swt. Taraweeh is not a fard namaz but a sunnah act of worship that holds immense rewards. During these prayers, at mosques, the Quran is recited in long segments, and the aim is to complete the entire Quran over the course of Ramadan. It’s a time to stand in reverence, listen to Allah’s SWT words and reflect on them.
When Do We Pray Taraweeh Namaz?
Taraweeh namaz takes place after the obligatory Isha prayer during the nights of Ramadan. It begins on the first night of this holy month and continues every night until the moon is sighted.
The significance of Taraweeh namaz lies in its connection to the revelation of the Quran during Ramadan. As Allah mentions in the Quran:
“The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion…” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185).
By engaging in Taraweeh, we commemorate this divine event and align our actions with the spiritual essence of the month.
My First Experience Praying Taraweeh Namaz
I still vividly remember my first time praying Taraweeh namaz. It was a mix of excitement, nervousness, and pure awe. As someone who had recently embraced Islam, I was eager to participate in this unique act of worship and connect with my new faith in a deeper way.
My first ever Ramadan and experience of praying Taraweeh for the first time it something I feel like it happened yesterday. It was so special in so many ways. Unfortunately, the lockdown hit in 2020 but at the same time participating in Ramadan for the first time during lockdown was a ‘blessing’ for me. Men were not allowed to go to the mosque because of the restriction. The first days men from our family prayed together in the living room and women prayed alone in their own rooms. After few days we all started praying together. It was such special time even back then because we knew this opportunity for us to pray together would most like not repeat ever again. Lockdown gave us this ‘one life time experience’. Praying together was such a unique experience for me and it will always be a beautiful memory I will cherish.
I have to admit praying on my own helps me to concentrate and connect in my namaz a lot better. As much as I enjoyed praying with others, I love standing on my own in prayer, feeling a deeper connection with Allah AWT in the quiet solitude and focus on longer supplications.
Physically, it was challenging. Standing for long periods, bowing, and prostrating repeatedly tested my endurance. But spiritually, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The sense of accomplishment after completing my first Taraweeh namaz was indescribable. I’ve learnt so much during that month, Alhamdulillah.
The Length of Taraweeh Namaz
It consists of 20 rakats. Each rakat involves standing, bowing, and prostrating while listening to or reciting verses from the Quran. The duration also depends on how much of the Quran is recited each night. In some mosques, the prayer can last for about an hour, while in others, it may extend to two or three hours if the recitation is slow.
Back in 2020 it usually took me around 30 minutes to pray isha and Taraweeh together. Only because I was still at the very beginning of my journey. The surah I memorized was short and didn’t take that much time to finish it. Nowadays it takes me one hour, sometimes longer to perform isha and Taraweeh namaz. Despite me being new to islam I could feel the impact of that namaz on my soul.
Benefits of Taraweeh Namaz
This ‘once-a-year opportunity’ namaz is more than just a prayer; it’s unique and brings numerous benefits. Here are some of the ways it has impacted my life:
- Strengthening My Faith – Taraweeh has deepened my relationship with Allah SWT. Standing in prayer, reciting the Quran, and reflecting on its meanings have strengthened my iman (faith) and given me a sense of peace and contentment.
- Forgiveness of Sins – One of the most motivating aspects of Taraweeh is the promise of forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever stands in prayer during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, all his past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)
This hadith reminds me of the immense mercy of Allah swt and encourages me to approach Taraweeh with sincerity and devotion. - Physical Benefits – The physical movements of Taraweeh—standing, bowing, and prostrating—are a form of light exercise. They improve flexibility, circulation, and overall physical health, which is especially beneficial after a day of fasting.
- Mental Clarity and Focus – Taraweeh has helped me develop a sense of mindfulness and focus. It’s a time to disconnect from daily distractions and immerse myself in worship, which has a calming effect on my mind.
- Learning: During Ramadan, I try to do my best and stay away from worldly distractions. I don’t watch tv and leave social media behind. Over the years Instead, I have focused on reading Quran and listening Islamic lectures from my favorite scholars.
- Building Discipline – Committing to Taraweeh every night during Ramadan has taught me discipline and time management. It’s a routine that requires dedication but brings immense rewards.
Tips for Making the Most of Taraweeh Namaz
- Prepare Yourself Physically and Mentally
Ensure you’re well-rested and hydrated before Taraweeh. Eating a balanced iftar meal can also help maintain your energy levels. I would have glass of water next to me to make sure I have a sip of water every two rakats. - Focus on Quality, Don’t rush
Take you time! This month is a gift for all muslims, it is time to pause and reflect on our connection with Allah Swt and implement more worship into our daily routine. My intention every year is, whatever I learn during this blessed month I tried to make a permanent part of my life, striving for continuous improvement. - Understand the Quran
Take time to read translations or listen to explanations of the Quranic verses. This will enhance your understanding and connection to the prayer. - Make Dua Use the breaks between rakats to make supplications. Ramadan is a month of mercy, and Taraweeh is an good time to ask Allah swt for guidance and blessings.
Conclusion
Taraweeh namaz is a cornerstone of Ramadan, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with Allah swt, deepen our understanding of the Quran, and strengthen our faith. My journey has been one of growth, reflection, and continuous learning. From my first experience, hesitant steps during my first fasts in to now eagerly anticipating each Ramadan night, Taraweeh has become a cherished part of my life.
Through its physical, mental, and great benefits, it continues to transform me every year. With a pure heart and a sincere desire to connect with Allah, approach Taraweeh, no matter your level of experience. The rewards—both in this life and the hereafter—are beyond measure.
May your Ramadan is filled with blessings and brings your family together. I pray that Allah swt makes it easier for us all during fasting periods, help us to protect our good deeds for us in such a blessed month. Ameen.
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