Tarawih facts for kids

Muslims performing Tarawih prayers at night.

Tarawih (pronounced: Tuh-RAH-weeh) are special extra prayers. Muslims perform these prayers at night. They do this during the holy month of Ramadan.

These prayers are a way for Muslims to feel closer to God. They are not required, but many Muslims choose to do them.

What are Tarawih Prayers?

Tarawih prayers are made up of several parts. Each part is called a raka‘āt (RAK-ah-at). A `raka'ah` includes standing, bowing, and prostrating (kneeling with your forehead on the ground). These actions are done while reciting verses from the Qur'an.

How Many Raka'āt?

The number of `raka'āt` in Tarawih prayers can be different. This depends on which group of Muslims you ask.

• Many Muslims, like those who follow the Hanafi and Shafi'i schools of thought, do 20 `raka'āt`.
• Some, like certain Hanbali followers and the Ahl al-Hadeeth, do 8 `raka'āt`.
• Others, like the Maliki school, might do 36 `raka'āt`.

No matter the number, these prayers are usually done in pairs of two `raka'āt` at a time.

When are Tarawih Prayers Done?

Tarawih prayers are performed every night. They start after the evening prayer (called Isha). They continue until just before the dawn prayer (called Fajr). This happens throughout the entire month of Ramadan.

Many Muslims go to a mosque to pray Tarawih together. It is a time for community and worship.