How to Pray Witr Hanafi: A Step-by-Step Guide
Prayer is an integral part of the Islamic faith, and Witr prayer holds great significance for followers of the Hanafi school of thought. Witr prayer is a voluntary act that is performed after the Isha prayer and before the Fajr prayer, usually consisting of an odd number of rak’ahs (units of prayer). In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of performing the Witr prayer according to the Hanafi school of thought.
Step 1: Make the Intention
Before beginning any prayer, it is important to make a sincere intention in your heart. Intentions are essential in Islam, as they bring focus and dedication to our acts of worship. Formulate the intention to pray Witr, both in your heart and by uttering it softly, ensuring it is in sync with your specific circumstances and the number of rak’ahs you plan to perform.
Step 2: Make Wudu
Prior to commencing the Witr prayer, it is crucial to perform ablution (wudu) to spiritually cleanse yourself. Start by washing your hands up to the wrists three times, rinsing your mouth and nostrils three times each, washing your face three times, washing your arms up to the elbows three times, wiping your head once, and finally washing your feet up to the ankles three times. Ensure that each step is performed thoroughly and with due focus.
Step 3: Begin With Two Rak’ahs
The Hanafi school of thought recommends starting the Witr prayer with two rak’ahs, just like the regular Sunnah prayer performed before the obligatory Isha prayer. In each rak’ah, recite Surah Al-Fatiha (the opening chapter of the Quran) followed by another portion of the Quran.
Step 4: Finish With the Odd Rak’ah
Once you have completed the two rak’ahs, stand up to perform the final, odd rak’ah of the Witr prayer. In this rak’ah, you have the flexibility to recite any chapter or verses from the Quran after Surah Al-Fatiha. It is recommended to lengthen the recitation in this final rak’ah, as it holds additional significance.
Step 5: Perform Qunut Supplication
After completing the recitation, gently raise your hands, palms facing upward, and offer the Qunut supplication. Qunut is a heartfelt invocation, where you can seek Allah’s guidance, forgiveness, and blessings for yourself, your loved ones, and the wider community. There are various Qunut supplications that can be found in books of prayers, or you may choose to offer a personal supplication.
Step 6: Perform Takbeer and Sujood
Following the Qunut supplication, say “Allahu Akbar” and proceed to make the sujood (prostration) by placing your forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes firmly on the ground. While in the prostration position, you may take the opportunity to whisper personal supplications to Allah, seeking his mercy and guidance.
Step 7: Complete With Tasleem
After concluding the prostration, sit back up and recite the Islamic greeting “As-Salamu Alaykum” (peace be upon you) while gently turning your head to the right, then to the left. This completes the Witr prayer according to the Hanafi school of thought.
Witr prayer is a beautiful act of worship that allows Muslims to seek closeness to Allah and gain blessings in this life and the hereafter. By following this step-by-step guide, individuals adhering to the Hanafi school of thought can perform the Witr prayer with confidence and devotion.
It is important to note that while these steps outline the general method of performing Witr prayer according to the Hanafi school, there may be slight differences in practices among individuals due to cultural or regional variations. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable scholar or imam can provide further clarity and insight into performing Witr prayer in the Hanafi manner.
May Allah accept our prayers and grant us the ability to worship Him in the best manner. Ameen.