The Witr prayer holds a distinguished status in Islamic worship, often described as the “crown of the night prayers.” It is a highly emphasized Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) never abandoned, even while traveling. Understanding the finer details of how to perform this act of worship ensures that the believer connects with the Divine in accordance with the Prophetic tradition.

This article clarifies the method of offering Witr, the frequency of the Qunut supplication, and the correct etiquette for its performance.

1. The Method of Separating Witr

A common inquiry concerns the structure of the prayer: Is it permissible to pray two rak’ahs, conclude with Taslim, and then pray one single rak’ah separately?

The Ruling: Yes, this is a valid and established method. Witr can be performed in various ways, but one of the most widely accepted methods involves splitting the three rak’ahs into two distinct parts.

  • The Procedure: The worshipper prays two rak’ahs and concludes them with the Taslim (saying “As-Salamu ‘Alaykum…”). After a slight pause, one stands up to perform a single, separate rak’ah, concluding it with another Taslim.
  • The Evidence: This method is supported by the practice of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) and is the preferred view in several schools of thought. It allows for a clear distinction between the night prayers and the final, odd-numbered Witr.

2. The Frequency of Qunut

There is often discussion regarding whether the Qunut supplication is restricted to the month of Ramadan or if it can be performed daily.

The Scholarly View: According to the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools, as well as many jurists, it is part of the Sunnah to recite the Qunut in the Witr prayer throughout the entire year.

While some opinions restrict it to the second half of Ramadan, there is strong evidence for its daily practice. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) taught his grandson, Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali, the famous supplication (“O Allah, guide me among those whom You have guided…”) specifically for the Witr prayer, without limiting it to a specific season. Thus, consistency in this supplication is a meritorious act.

3. Timing and Etiquette of Qunut

The final aspect involves the specific movements: when to recite the Qunut, the placement of the hands, and the ruling on wiping the face.

A. Before or After Ruku’?

There is flexibility in the Sunnah regarding when the Qunut occurs within the final rak’ah.

  • After Ruku’: It is permissible to recite it after rising from the bowing position (Ruku’), standing fully upright.
  • Before Ruku’: It is also permissible to recite it before bowing. If adopting this method, the worshipper should say “Allahu Akbar,” raise the hands to the ears, recite the supplication, say “Allahu Akbar” again, and then proceed to bow.
  • The Evidence: It is reported that the Companion Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) confirmed that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) performed it both before and after the Ruku’.

B. Raising Hands and Wiping the Face

  • Raising Hands: It is preferable to raise the hands in supplication during Qunut, as this posture signifies humility and need before Allah.
  • Wiping the Face: Regarding wiping the face after finishing the Qunut, classical scholars such as Al-Baihaqi advise against it. The reasoning is to confine oneself strictly to what the early generations practiced. Since authentic reports confirm they raised their hands but do not mention wiping the face during prayer, it is safer to avoid this action.

“It is preferred not to do so and to confine oneself to what the early generations did.”

Therefore, after the Dua is finished, the worshipper should simply lower the hands or proceed directly to Sujood (prostration).