The holy month of Ramadan is set to commence on March 1, 2025, and with it, the cherished tradition of Teravih prayer will begin the evening prior, on February 28. This year, millions of Muslims across Turkey will gather to observe this special prayer, enhancing the spiritually significant atmosphere of the month.
The first Teravih prayer of the year will be conducted after the evening prayer (Yatsı). For major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, the timing has been officially set. On February 28, the evening prayer will take place at:
- Istanbul: 20:19
- Ankara: 20:03
- Izmir: 20:26
Understanding how to perform the Teravih prayer is important as many prepare to engage deeply with their faith during Ramadan. The prayer, which can be performed individually or congregationally, traditionally consists of 20 rakats, though it may also be prayed as 8 rakats for those who find the longer form challenging.
The performance of Teravih prayer is primarily recommended to be done in two methods: either two rakats followed by peace (selam) or four rakats before taking peace. The more popularly accepted method is to perform it with two rakats, taking peace after each pair to total twenty rakats.
Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Turkey's Directorate of Religious Affairs, has provided guidelines for how the prayer should be executed. Prior to beginning the prayer, participants should express their intentions with the phrase: 'I intend to perform the Teravih prayer for the sake of Allah's pleasure.'
Each rakat of Teravih starts with the Takbir (saying “Allahuekber”) to enter the prayer. Following this, the worshiper recites the Sübhaneke prayer. The Fatiha Surah is then recited, followed by any additional short surah or verses from the Quran (zammı sure). After ruku (bowing), where three times 'Subhane Rabbiye'l-Azim' is recited, worshipers rise again saying 'Semiallahu limen hamideh'. Upon completing the ruku, worshipers recite 'Rabbena lekal hamd'.
Following this, the prayer continues to the sajda (prostration), performing it twice. After the first two rakats, the worshiper may take peace and then continue for the subsequent rakats.
The Teravih prayer is significant not only for its religious value but also for its role as social bonding within the community. Being part of the congregation enhances the worship experience, as followers are united in prayer, reflecting the communal essence of the Islamic faith.
Despite its optional nature, Teravih prayer holds considerable merit. According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of worship during Ramadan nights, stating, "Whoever stands [in prayer] during Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward will have their previous sins forgiven." (Reported by Bukhari and Muslim). This strong encouragement underlines the significance of the Teravih prayer as one engages with their spirituality during these holy nights.
For those who need to lessen their commitment due to health reasons or personal circumstances, options exist. It’s acceptable to pray 8 rakats as opposed to 20, enabling broader participation.
Each evening after Teravih, worshippers also have the option to perform the Witr prayer, which is highly encouraged and concludes the night’s worship. The practice of completing this prayer contributes to the continued observance of rituals during Ramadan, bringing believers closer to their faith.
Ramadan is not only about fasting—the Teravih prayer marks the beginning of the month’s special atmosphere. This year’s observance is set to encourage more individuals to engage with their spirituality through nightly prayers.
With set times for prayers announced and the practices clearly defined, Muslims across Turkey are preparing for this important month. The fundamental tenets of Teravih, offering comfort, community, and connection with the divine, will be at the heart of daily routines throughout Ramadan.
Understanding when and how to perform Teravih can facilitate planning among those wishing to attend prayers at mosques. For many, simply being part of the congregation enhances the overall experience and signifies the coming together of the community during this sacred month.
To conclude, as Ramadan approaches, the joy and anticipation of joining together for Teravih will resonate strongly among Muslims, setting the tone for the month’s sustained religious observance.