Sejarah Tarawih | Awal Mula dan Perbedaannya dari Zaman Rasulullah hingga Sekarang

Introduction

This tutorial explores the history of Tarawih prayer in Islam, tracing its origins from the time of the Prophet Muhammad through various caliphs, and examining the differences in its practice today. Understanding the evolution of Tarawih enhances our appreciation of this significant Ramadan practice.

Step 1: Understanding Tarawih in the Time of the Prophet Muhammad

• The Tarawih prayer was first established by the Prophet Muhammad during Ramadan.
• It was initially performed in congregation at the mosque, but the Prophet later prayed alone for fear that it might become obligatory.
• The total number of rakaat (units of prayer) was not fixed during this time, allowing flexibility in practice.

Step 2: Tarawih during the Caliphate of Abu Bakar

• Abu Bakar, the first caliph, continued the tradition of Tarawih.
• He would lead the prayers in congregation, but the practice remained informal.
• The emphasis was on voluntary prayer rather than a formal structure.

Step 3: Tarawih during the Caliphate of Umar bin Khattab

• Umar bin Khattab institutionalized Tarawih by organizing it into a structured prayer with a set number of rakaat.
• He observed that many people were praying in small groups and decided to bring them together for a unified prayer.
• It was during his time that the number of rakaat was commonly set to 20.

Step 4: Tarawih during the Caliphate of Ali bin Abi Talib

• Ali bin Abi Talib emphasized the importance of Tarawih but also allowed for personal preference in the number of rakaat prayed.
• His approach reinforced the idea that the prayer should be meaningful and not just a number to be fulfilled.

Step 5: Tarawih during the Caliphate of Umar bin Abdul Aziz

• Umar bin Abdul Aziz is noted for encouraging the practice of Tarawih among people by promoting it throughout the community.
• He acknowledged the benefits of collective prayer and worked to ensure that it remained accessible to all Muslims.

Step 6: Differences in the Number of Rakaat for Tarawih

• The number of rakaat for Tarawih varies between different Islamic traditions and cultures.
• Common practices include:
  • 8 rakaat followed by 2 rakaat of Witr in many Sunni traditions.
  • 20 rakaat in some communities, especially in the Hanafi school.
• Each community may have its own customs regarding the length and recitation during the prayers.

Conclusion

The history of Tarawih prayer showcases its evolution and the various practices developed over centuries. From the Prophet Muhammad to the Caliphs, the importance of this prayer has remained central to the Ramadan experience in Islam. Understanding these historical contexts helps deepen one's spiritual practice during the holy month. Consider participating in Tarawih prayers and exploring local customs to enrich your Ramadan experience.