Bismillah.
We all know that we should pray tahajjud, aka qiyaam-ul-layl. It’s well established in the deen that this is a very, very rewarding thing to do (but it’s not fard, so don’t sweat it if you’re not doing it). Some motivational factors for this include:
- The Prophet (صلى الله عليه و سلم) used to pray Qiyaam-ul-Layl until his legs swelled. When asked why–since Allah has forgiven all his past and future sins, he said: Should I not be a grateful slave? [Agreed Upon]
- Do you have goals you’re trying to achieve? Is there something you really, really want? Are you willing to pray Qiyam and cry in front of Allah for it? Because nothing will turbo-charge your success like Qiyam.
- On the day of Judgment, Allah will ask about YOUR salah. If it’s not 100% perfect, He will not even LOOK at your other deeds. BUT! If your Fard salaah is not perfect, Allah will patch it up with your nafl and sunnah prayers–including Qiyaam-ul-Layl. [There’s a hadith related to this recorded in the collection of At-Tabari]
So what are some creative, unorthodox, unusual timers you use to wake you up? Share it in the comments! Some of the one’s I’ve seen (that are effective) are:
- Crying Babies: If there’s a young child in your family (under two years), chances are they wake up crying in the night. Take advantage of this–get up and pray!
- Bad Dreams: In one narration, the Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه و سلم) said that if you have a bad dream, you should wake up and pray. Shaytan will get discouraged from sending you more bad dreams–because it’s resulting in you doing MORE good deeds!
- Drink Water: Drink lots of water–about a liter. You will FOR SURE have to wake up to use the washroom in the night. Make wudoo’ while you’re at it!
What are some other creative, useful, effective methods you use to wake up for Qiyaam?