The Book of Prayer - Travellers

Sahih Muslim 745 a

Hadith Text

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) observed the Witr prayer every night and he completed Witr at the time of dawn.

Commentary

This noble hadith establishes the consistent practice of the Prophet (ﷺ) regarding the Witr prayer, demonstrating its importance as a regular nightly devotion. The phrase "every night" indicates the continuity and emphasis placed upon this prayer, making it a confirmed Sunnah mu'akkadah (emphasized tradition).

The completion of Witr "at the time of dawn" refers to the final portion of the night, specifically the time of the Tahajjud prayer. This timing allows for the maximum spiritual benefit, as the last third of the night is when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and responds to supplications. Scholars note this timing provides flexibility while ensuring the prayer is offered during its most virtuous period.

The wisdom behind delaying Witr until dawn includes the opportunity to perform additional night prayers after it, as the Prophet (ﷺ) would sometimes pray two rak'ahs after Witr in a seated position. This practice demonstrates that Witr serves as the seal and conclusion of the night prayers, making it the final act of worship before the dawn prayer.

Legal Rulings

The majority of scholars consider Witr to be a strongly emphasized Sunnah, not obligatory but highly recommended. The Hanafi school regards it as wajib (necessary), though of a lesser degree than fard (obligatory) prayers.

The permissible time for Witr extends from after the Isha prayer until dawn. The most virtuous time is the last third of the night, though it may be offered earlier if one fears missing it. One who misses Witr may make it up during the day, but should pray it in pairs of rak'ahs rather than the odd-numbered format.