The arrival of Ramadan is marked by the commencement of Teravih prayers, which are held nightly throughout the holy month. For 2025, the first Teravih prayer will be held on February 28, coinciding with the eve of Ramadan, where communities gather after the Yatsı prayer to fulfill this important tradition.
Historically, Teravih, viewed as more beneficial than a thousand months, is performed during the nights of Ramadan. This year, the prayer will commence right after the Yatsı prayer. The scheduled times for the first Teravih prayer show slight variations across major cities: Istanbul at 20:19, Ankara at 20:03, Izmir at 20:26, and Bursa also at 20:19.
According to Islamic tradition, Teravih prayer, often categorized as Sunnah (non-obligatory but highly recommended), consists of 20 rekats. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of this prayer, stating, "Whoever prays during Ramadan out of faith and hoping for reward, his past sins will be forgiven." This saying underlines the significance of engaging earnestly in worship throughout this holy month.
Muslims can perform the Teravih prayer either individually or congregationally. While praying alone is considered virtuous, engaging with the community during worship holds special merit as demonstrated by the practices of the Prophet. Nevertheless, due to concerns about the potential obligation for congregational prayer, he initially ceased leading the community.
The prayer itself begins after the completion of Yatsı prayer, which includes four rekats of Sunnah, followed by four rekats of the obligatory prayer and two rekats of Sunnah, bringing the cumulative total with Teravih to 33 rekats. Each set of Teravih can be performed either two rekats or four rekats at once, allowing for breaks to sit and recite supplications, which is deemed appropriate.
During each set of two or four rekats, the congregation recites certain prayers such as Sübhaneke, Fatiha, and additional Surahs. After four rekats, worshippers are encouraged to take brief rests, during which they may engage in personal supplications and dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
Significantly, the span of time designated for Teravih prayers extends all the way until the Fajr prayer, providing ample opportunity for reflection and devotion as the day approaches. The average time to complete the entire Teravih prayer, including Yatsı and Vitir prayers, can range up to 45 minutes if performed continuously, making it manageable for most individuals.
It is worth noting, though, if missed, Teravih prayer does not require the individual to perform it outside of Ramadan, unlike the obligatory prayers, which amends any missed prayer legitimately. This aspect surprises many who join the Muslim congregation for the first time, leading to meaningful discussions about religious practices.
After completing the Teravih prayers, which symbolize reverence and gratitude, congregations often proceed to pray the Vitir, comprising three rekats. This prayer emphasizes the supplicants’ alignment with their faith and cohesion during this significant period.
To prepare for these prayers, individuals look forward to learning how to perform them properly, focusing not just on ritual but also on intent and spirituality. The recitation of various prayers during Teravih, such as the Fatiha, and subsequent Surahs like Kafirun, Maun, and Nas, serve as reminders of their beliefs and the underlying intent of the prayer.
Teravih brings communities together, fostering the collective spirit of Ramadan and providing moments of joy, reflection, and camaraderie among congregants. Each night of the holy month becomes not just about prayer but also about strengthening ties to the faith, exchanging blessings, and celebrating the month of Ramadan.
For many, the upcoming Teravih prayers are anticipated not simply as ritualistic practices but as opportunities for personal renewal, community connectivity, and healing through unity. Observing the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad, Muslims strive to participate actively, ensuring they fully engage with this spiritually rich time.
So as the clock strikes for Yatsı this February 28, Muslims across Turkey and the world will gather, recite, and celebrate, firmly rooted in the tradition of Teravih.