What Is Tarawih Prayer and Why Is It Important During Ramadan?
Tarawih (also spelled Taraweeh) is a special voluntary night prayer performed during the month of Ramadan. It is prayed after the obligatory Isha prayer and before the Witr prayer. The word “Tarawih” comes from the Arabic word meaning “to rest,” referring to the short breaks taken between sets of rakaat. Tarawih is considered a Sunnah Mu'akkadah (strongly recommended practice) for both men and women, and it is one of the most beloved acts of worship during Ramadan.
The practice of praying Tarawih in congregation was established by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who prayed it in congregation on a few nights before choosing to pray it individually, out of concern that it might become obligatory upon the community. This is reported in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. The Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab later revived the practice of praying Tarawih in congregation at the mosque, and this tradition has continued across the Muslim world to this day.
Many mosques aim to complete the entire Quran during Tarawih prayers over the course of Ramadan, reciting approximately one juz (section) each night.
When Does Tarawih Start in Australia in 2026?
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around February 18, 2026 in Australia, subject to the official moon sighting announcement. Tarawih prayers begin on the first night of Ramadan and continue every night until the end of the month.
Tarawih is typically prayed 15 to 30 minutes after Isha prayer. The exact start time varies by mosque and city, as Isha prayer times change slightly each day throughout the month.
Approximate Isha Times During Ramadan 2026
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How Many Rakaat Is Tarawih Prayer?
The number of rakaat for Tarawih is a topic where scholars hold different positions. Both views are well-established and accepted in the Muslim community.
Rakaat
The majority position held by scholars of the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools. This practice was established during the time of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab and has been the widespread practice in mosques across the Muslim world for centuries.
Rakaat
Based on hadith narrations describing the night prayer of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), as reported in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. Some scholars and communities follow this practice with longer recitations in each rakah.
Both positions are valid. The most important thing is to pray Tarawih consistently throughout Ramadan, regardless of the number of rakaat. Follow whatever your local mosque or community practises.
Witr Prayer After Tarawih
After completing Tarawih, Witr prayer is performed. Witr is typically 3 rakaat (though it can be 1 rakah according to some scholars) and includes the Qunut supplication. Most mosques pray Witr in congregation immediately following the final set of Tarawih.
How Do You Find Tarawih Prayers Near You in Australia?
Finding a mosque offering Tarawih near you is straightforward with HalalHQ. The mosque finder shows Tarawih times, the number of rakaat offered, and whether the mosque plans to complete the full Quran during Ramadan. You can search by city or suburb across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Gold Coast, and Hobart. Many mosques also post Tarawih schedules on their social media pages and noticeboards before Ramadan begins.
Browse by City
Help Your Community
Know your mosque's Tarawih schedule? You can submit Tarawih details directly on any mosque page using the “Add Tarawih Info” button. Your contribution helps fellow Muslims find accurate prayer times during Ramadan.
What Is Proper Tarawih Etiquette and How Can You Prepare?
Making the most of Tarawih goes beyond simply showing up. Good preparation includes arriving early to secure a spot, eating a moderate iftar so you can stand comfortably, and wearing loose, breathable clothing. Bringing your own prayer mat is also recommended, as mosques often overflow during Ramadan. These practical tips will help you have a more meaningful and comfortable experience throughout the month.
Arrive Early
Get to the mosque before Isha prayer to secure a spot and settle in. Many mosques fill up quickly during Ramadan.
Eat a Light Iftar
A heavy iftar can make it difficult to stand for extended prayer. Eat moderately and save the larger meal for after Tarawih.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose loose, breathable clothes. Tarawih involves extended standing, bowing, and prostrating, so comfort matters.
Follow the Imam
Stay attentive to the imam's recitation and movements. If you lose track, simply follow the congregation around you.
Bring Your Prayer Mat
Some mosques may overflow into outdoor areas or halls. Having your own prayer mat ensures you are prepared.
Make Dua During Breaks
Between each set of rakaat, there are short breaks. Use this time for personal supplication and reflection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Other Ramadan Resources Are Available on HalalHQ?
Beyond Tarawih, HalalHQ offers a range of tools and guides to help you make the most of Ramadan 2026. These include daily suhoor and iftar timetables for Australian cities, a zakat calculator to help you determine your annual obligation, a collection of essential Ramadan duas, and a full Quran reader with Arabic text and translations.
Sources and References
Islamic content in this guide is based on widely accepted scholarly sources:
- Hadith references from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim regarding Tarawih prayer
- Scholarly positions from the four major schools of Islamic jurisprudence (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali)
- Ramadan 2026 date estimates based on astronomical calculations (subject to moon sighting)
Ready for Ramadan 2026?
Find mosques with Tarawih, track prayer times, read the Quran, and make the most of this blessed month with HalalHQ.