Witr Prayer - Sahih al-Bukhari 990

This narration from our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) establishes the fundamental principles of the night prayer (Tahajjud/Qiyam al-Layl) and the Witr prayer. The questioner sought guidance on performing voluntary prayers during the night, and the Prophet provided comprehensive instruction that has been preserved for our benefit.

Methodology of Night Prayer

The Prophet (ﷺ) instructed that night prayers should be performed in units of two rak'at each. This pattern continues throughout the night, with tasleem (salutation ending the prayer) after every two rak'at. This method allows for natural breaks and prevents physical exhaustion while maintaining proper prayer structure.

This teaching emphasizes the importance of moderation and sustainability in worship, ensuring that the believer can maintain consistency in night prayers without becoming overwhelmed.

The Wisdom of Witr

When dawn approaches and time becomes short, the Prophet (ﷺ) taught that one should conclude the night prayers with a single rak'ah of Witr. This single rak'ah serves as the Witr (odd-numbered) prayer that seals all the previous even-numbered rak'at performed during the night.

This demonstrates the flexibility and mercy in Islamic worship - if one fears missing the Fajr prayer due to prolonged night prayers, they may shorten the conclusion while still receiving the full reward of having performed Witr.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith establishes the minimum Witr as one rak'ah, though the complete Witr is three rak'at. The wisdom behind concluding with an odd number is that it distinguishes the night prayer from the obligatory prayers, which are generally even in number.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this teaching shows the Prophet's concern for his ummah's ease in worship, providing alternatives for different circumstances while maintaining the essence and reward of the devotion.