The Witr prayer is a significant voluntary act of worship within the Islamic tradition, serving as the concluding prayer of the night. The Arabic term witr translates to “odd,” reflecting the structural requirement of this prayer. It is performed following the obligatory evening prayer, Isha. It functions as a final opportunity for devotion before sleep.
Defining Witr and its Timing
The Witr prayer is classified by most scholars as Sunnah Mu’akkadah. Some schools of thought, like the Hanafi, consider it Wajib. This prayer must be performed in an odd number of units (Rak’ahs). The most common configurations are three or one unit.
The time window for Witr begins immediately after the Isha prayer and extends until the break of dawn (Fajr prayer). Performing it later in the night is considered more virtuous. If one fears they may not wake up, it is recommended to perform the Witr before going to sleep.
When performing the three-unit Witr, two primary methods are practiced. The first involves praying two units, concluding with the salutation (Taslim), and then praying a separate single unit followed by another Taslim. The second approach involves praying all three units continuously, only sitting for the final Tashahhud before the concluding Taslim.
Detailed Steps for Performing Witr Prayer
The most widely practiced method is the 2+1 approach. It begins with establishing the intention (Niyyah) for the two units of Witr. The prayer starts by proclaiming the opening Takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) and placing the hands over the chest or navel. The first unit commences with Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by a short additional chapter, such as Surah Al-A’la.
The worshipper performs Ruku (bowing) and then proceeds into the two prostrations (Sujood). The worshipper rises for the second unit.
The second Rak’ah mirrors the first, starting with Al-Fatihah and often followed by a different short chapter, such as Surah Al-Kafirun. After completing the second set of Ruku and Sujood, the worshipper sits for the first Tashahhud. The two units conclude by turning the head to the right and left for the salutation (Taslim).
A fresh intention is made for the final, single Rak’ah of Witr, starting with another opening Takbir. This unit involves the recitation of Al-Fatihah, typically followed by Surah Al-Ikhlas. The worshipper performs the Ruku and Sujood as before. The prayer concludes with the final Tashahhud and the Taslim, completing the three-unit prayer.
Incorporating the Witr Supplication (Du’a al-Qunut)
A distinctive feature of the Witr prayer is the inclusion of the Du’a al-Qunut, a specific supplication recited in the final Rak’ah. This supplication is a highly recommended element, serving as a plea for guidance, forgiveness, and protection.
The placement of the Qunut varies among schools of thought, but it is typically recited in the standing position (Qiyam) of the final unit. Traditions recommend reciting it either before performing the Ruku or after rising from the Ruku. If recited after the Ruku, the worshipper stands upright, raises hands to chest height, and begins the supplication. The most recognized wording appeals for guidance and health. The worshipper finishes the Du’a al-Qunut by returning to the regular prayer sequence, concluding with the prostrations, final Tashahhud, and Taslim.