The Night Prayer (Qiyam-ul-Lail) – A Secret Between You and Allah

In the stillness of the night, when the world sleeps and silence embraces the earth, there lies a golden opportunity to connect with the Creator. This is the time for Qiyam-ul-Lail, the night prayer – an act of worship that remains a hidden treasure between a believer and Allah. It is not obligated upon us, yet it holds a special place in the hearts of those who seek closeness to their Lord.

Qiyam-ul-Lail, also referred to as Tahajjud, was a regular habit of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He would rise during the night, leave the comfort of his bed, and stand long in prayer, sometimes until his feet would swell. Despite being forgiven for all his past and future sins, he said, “Should I not be a thankful servant?” (Bukhari & Muslim). This alone shows the immense value of this voluntary prayer.

Allah ﷻ says in the Qur’an:

“Indeed, the rising by night is very hard, but most potent and good for governing the soul, and most suitable for (understanding) the Word (of Allah).” — Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:6)

Qiyam-ul-Lail is a spiritual nourishment. In those quiet moments, when the heart is soft and the distractions of the day have faded, the believer stands before Allah, pouring out their fears, hopes, sins, and dreams. There is no audience, no spotlight—only sincerity. Every tear that falls, every du'a made, and every verse recited is witnessed only by Allah. It is the most intimate form of worship.

This prayer does not require lengthy hours. Even two rak’ahs, sincerely prayed, can uplift the soul. The Prophet ﷺ said: “The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.” — (Muslim)

Those who struggle to wake up at night should begin with small steps—praying before sleeping, then eventually waking up for a short time in the last third of the night. This time is particularly special, for Allah Himself descends to the lowest heaven and calls out:

“Is there anyone who will call upon Me, so that I may answer him? Is there anyone who will ask Me, so that I may give him? Is there anyone seeking forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?” — (Bukhari & Muslim)

Qiyam-ul-Lail is also a way to heal. When you're lost, overwhelmed, or burdened by life, the night prayer becomes your retreat. It is your place of renewal, your personal meeting with the One who truly knows you. What the heart whispers, the soul finds peace in.

Let Qiyam-ul-Lail be your secret between you and Allah. A time where you speak freely, seek sincerely, and stand humbly. Make it your habit—not to earn praise from others—but to earn closeness to the One who created you.

When the world sleeps, rise. Even if the prayer is short, make it full of love. Let your heart speak. And remember: in those quiet nights, you are never alone.

Written By

Zahra Mursaleen 

Faculty of Agro Technology and Rural Sciences (R), 3rd Year

University of Colombo