The Witr prayer, which literally means “odd number,” is a highly recommended voluntary prayer that serves as the final worship of the night. Rooted in prophetic tradition, it emphasizes concluding the day with an odd number of units. Witr’s timing bridges the gap between the obligatory ‘Isha (evening) and Fajr (dawn) prayers. This guide provides clear, practical instruction on performing this distinctive prayer, focusing on the commonly practiced three Raka’at format.
Understanding the Framework
The time for Witr begins immediately after the obligatory ‘Isha prayer and extends until the start of the Fajr prayer. Ideally, it is performed later in the night, but it can be prayed right after ‘Isha if one fears not waking up before dawn. Witr must be performed with an odd number of units (Raka’at), which can range up to eleven, with one, three, five, or seven being common.
The legal status of Witr varies among the major schools of jurisprudence; some classify it as Wajib (necessary) while others consider it Sunnah Mu’akkadah (confirmed prophetic practice). Despite this difference, its importance is universally acknowledged. The three Raka’at format is the most widely taught method and serves as the standard instructional model.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Three Raka’at Format
The three Raka’at Witr can be performed in a single continuous prayer or as two Raka’at followed by a separate single Raka’ah. The continuous method often follows the structure of the Maghrib prayer but with specific variations.
First Raka’ah
Begin by making the sincere intention (Niyyah) to perform the Witr prayer, raising the hands to the ears, and saying Allahu Akbar (God is the Greatest). Recite Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by another short chapter, often Surah Al-A’la (The Most High). Complete the Raka’ah by bowing (Rukū’) and performing two prostrations (Sujūd).
Second Raka’ah
Stand for the second Raka’ah and recite Al-Fatihah and a second Surah, traditionally Surah Al-Kafirun (The Disbelievers). After completing the Rukū’ and Sujūd, sit for the first seated position (Jalsah) to recite the Tashahhud (testimony of faith). A final salutation (Salām) is not given at this point; instead, one stands for the third Raka’ah.
Third Raka’ah
Recite Al-Fatihah and a final Surah, typically Surah Al-Ikhlas (The Sincerity). The special supplication, Dua al-Qunūt, is inserted during this final unit, either before or after the bowing.
Performing the Essential Supplication
The Qunūt is a specific supplication inserted into the final Raka’ah of the Witr prayer, distinguishing it from other prayers. Its placement varies by school of thought, performed either before the Rukū’ or immediately after rising from it. The common practice involves raising the hands to the ears and saying Allahu Akbar before recitation.
The supplication is a sincere plea to God for guidance, health, forgiveness, and protection from harm. A common version begins, “O Allah, guide me among those You have guided, and pardon me among those You have pardoned.” After completing the Qunūt, the prayer continues with the bowing and prostrations as normal, concluding with the final Tashahhud and the Salām.
Addressing Common Practical Queries
A common variation is to perform Witr as a single Raka’ah, which is permissible and fulfills the requirement of the prayer. This single unit is performed similarly to the third Raka’ah of the three-unit format, including the recitation of Dua al-Qunūt and concluding with the final Tashahhud and Salām. This shorter option is useful for those who may be tired or short on time before dawn.
If the Witr prayer is missed due to sleep or forgetfulness, it is prescribed to make it up (Qada) later. When making up Witr during the day, it is recommended to perform it with an even number of Raka’at, such as four instead of three. This practice of adding one Raka’ah to the usual odd number ensures the prayer is made up as an even set.
While Witr is meant to be the last prayer of the night, scholars permit performing additional voluntary prayers after it. Although the prophetic tradition encourages making Witr the final act of worship, the original Witr remains valid, and one should not repeat the Witr prayer itself.