The Witr prayer is an important voluntary prayer performed by Muslims, especially during the night. Here are the steps and guidelines for praying the Witr prayer in Islamic tradition:
1. Number of Rak'ahs: The Witr prayer consists of an odd number of rak'ahs (units of prayer), typically one or three rak'ahs. It is most commonly performed as a single rak'ah, but it can also be performed as three rak'ahs with two tasleems (salutations) after the first two rak'ahs.
2. Beginning the Prayer: Start the Witr prayer by performing the opening takbir (saying "Allahu Akbar") and raising your hands to your ears. This signifies the beginning of the prayer.
3. Recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha: In each rak'ah of the Witr prayer, recite Surah Al-Fatiha (the Opening Chapter of the Quran) after the opening takbir.
4. Recitation of Additional Verses: After Surah Al-Fatiha, recite additional verses or chapters from the Quran. Commonly recited surahs include Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas.
5. Ruku' (Bowing): Perform the ruku' by bowing down with humility and saying "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great) three times.
6. Sujood (Prostration): Prostrate by placing your forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes on the ground. Say "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times.
7. Tashahhud: After the prostration, sit back and recite the tashahhud, a statement of testimony to the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him).
8. Ending the Prayer: Complete the Witr prayer by reciting the tasleem, saying "Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) to the right and left sides.
9. Qunoot Supplication: In the third rak'ah of the Witr prayer (if performing three rak'ahs), it is recommended to recite the qunoot supplication after rising from the bowing position (ruku'). The qunoot is a supplication in which the worshipper seeks Allah's guidance, mercy, and protection.
10. Supplication: After completing the prayer, it is recommended to make personal supplications (du'a) to Allah, seeking His forgiveness, blessings, and guidance. It is Mustahabb to say after the Tasleem: "Subhanal Malikil Quddus" (three times)
What is The Time for Praying Witr ?
Witr starts when a person has prayed Ishai and last until dawn begins.
Can We Delay Witr Prayer ?
If anyone afraid that he may not get up in the later part of the night, he should witr in the first part of it; and if anyone is eager to get up in the last part of it, he should observe witr at the end of the night. (Sahih Muslim 755).
It's important to note that while the Witr prayer is voluntary, it is highly recommended and holds great significance in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to perform it regularly, especially during the latter part of the night, as it is a time when prayers are readily accepted by Allah.