What Do You Say Before Starting Taraweeh: A Guide

The opening dua (supplication) for Taraweeh prayer is a significant aspect of Islamic worship during the holy month of Ramadan. It consists of two specific supplications that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to recite. The first dua is: “Allahumma ba’id bayni wa bayna khatayaya kama ba’adta bayna al-mashriqi wal-maghrib,” which can be translated as “O Allah, separate me from my sins as You have separated the East from the West.” This dua signifies a heartfelt plea for forgiveness and a desire to be distanced from one’s transgressions.

The second dua is: “Allahumma naqqini min khatayaya kama yunaqqa al-thawb al-abyad min al-danas,” which translates to “O Allah, cleanse me from my sins as a white garment is cleansed from filth.” This supplication highlights the aspiration for purification and spiritual cleansing during the blessed month of Ramadan.

It’s worth noting that these duas are recited by Muslims at the beginning of Taraweeh prayers as a way to seek Allah’s forgiveness and purification of the heart. They serve as a means of drawing closer to Allah and fostering a sense of repentance and humility during this special time of worship.

Taraweeh prayer is an integral part of Islamic tradition, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. This special nightly prayer involves performing two units (rak’ahs) at a time, and it is known for its audibly recited verses from the Quran. When you arrive at the mosque during Ramadan evenings, the prayer schedule typically begins with the Isha prayer. After Isha, there is usually a brief intermission during which you have the opportunity to engage in personal acts of devotion, such as performing sunnah prayers or engaging in dhikr (remembrance of God). Following this intermission, the congregation gathers to perform Taraweeh, starting with the initial two rak’ahs. It is important to note that the Taraweeh prayer is a communal and audible prayer, allowing the congregation to collectively listen to the Quranic recitation by the Imam. This practice fosters a sense of unity and spirituality among worshippers during the blessed month of Ramadan.