An easy guide to Taraweeh
Ramadan is a blessed month, and blessed is the prayer that is known as Taraweeh. Numerous Muslims worldwide strive to go to the mosque and perform the prayer in congregation (it may be read at home, as well, though). Listening to the recitation of the entire Holy Quran during salah is a spiritual experience like no other.
Nevertheless, a lot of people fail to accomplish this task, since it proves to be time-consuming and a little taxing to the mind and the body - for those who do not take proper precautions.
But taking proper measures can ensure a smooth journey during Ramadan, along with making your Taraweeh a success.
STAY FIT
A bottle of water is your friend. It is very important that you stay hydrated. Given the hot and humid weather - also the fact that you have to go without fluid consumption for the entire day - it should come as no surprise if you feel thirsty during the prayer. Make sure you drink enough water at iftar and carry a water bottle to the mosque.
Do not stuff yourself during iftar, though. It might cause digestion problems, along with making you feel drowsy or lethargic.
CLEAR OFF THE SCHEDULE
The mosque will run on its routine. It is up to you to ensure that you arrive on time. And if you are planning to perform Taraweeh at the mosque for the entire month, it goes without saying that you need to be very particular about your schedule.
Let your acquaintances and colleagues know beforehand that you are planning to perform taraweeh. Be prepared to leave early from iftar parties; you do not want to be late for your prayers.
Most importantly, plan your entire day ahead. Nothing beats making simple things-to-do lists.
KEEP YOURSELF MOTIVATED
The first few days are the most difficult for many despite the high spirits. But as the weeks go by, ypu may just want to quit. One way of not giving up is by tagging along with a friend or family member, so that one can motivate the other. Moreover, reading about the rewards of this special prayer or about the blessing of the Quran or about the sanctity of Ramadan, can keep you on track.
RELISH IN THE SPIRITUALITY
It might be hard for many people to focus on the long recitations. But one must strive to concentrate. It might help if you read the translated text before going to the mosque. Apart from that, even if you do not know what the Hafiz is reciting, soak your soul into the beautiful recitation of the divine book.
The opportunity of Taraweeh comes once a year. This Ramadan, take it as a challenge to say this special prayer in the mosque!
By M H Haider
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
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