Hukum Membaca Niat Sholat Tarawih: Sebuah Tinjauan

The act of reciting the intention for Tarawih prayer has been a subject of much discussion and debate among Muslim scholars. While the consensus is that forming the intention is a fundamental requirement for the validity of any prayer, the specific method of reciting the intention for Tarawih prayer has sparked diverse interpretations. This article delves into the various perspectives on the legal ruling regarding the recitation of the intention for Tarawih prayer, exploring the arguments presented by different schools of thought and examining the practical implications of these rulings.

The Importance of Intention in Islamic Law

In Islamic jurisprudence, the concept of intention (niyyah) holds paramount importance. It is considered the soul of every act of worship, signifying the individual's conscious and deliberate choice to perform the act for the sake of Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the significance of intention, stating, "Indeed, actions are but by intentions, and every person will get what he intended." (Sahih Bukhari). This principle applies to all forms of worship, including prayer.

The Legal Ruling on Reciting the Intention for Tarawih Prayer

The legal ruling on reciting the intention for Tarawih prayer is a matter of scholarly debate. The majority of Islamic scholars, including the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools of thought, hold the view that reciting the intention aloud is not a requirement for the validity of the prayer. They argue that forming the intention in one's heart is sufficient. This position is based on the principle that the intention is a matter of the heart and not of the tongue.

However, a minority of scholars, primarily from the Hanbali school, maintain that reciting the intention aloud is a necessary condition for the validity of Tarawih prayer. They base their argument on the hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have said, "Whoever prays without intending to pray, his prayer is not valid." (Sunan Ibn Majah). They interpret this hadith to mean that the intention must be expressed verbally.

Practical Implications of the Different Rulings

The different rulings on reciting the intention for Tarawih prayer have practical implications for Muslims. Those who follow the majority opinion can simply form the intention in their hearts before starting the prayer. They do not need to recite it aloud. On the other hand, those who adhere to the minority opinion must recite the intention aloud to ensure the validity of their prayer.

Conclusion

The legal ruling on reciting the intention for Tarawih prayer is a complex issue with diverse interpretations. While the majority of scholars hold that forming the intention in one's heart is sufficient, a minority view emphasizes the need for verbal recitation. It is important for Muslims to be aware of these different perspectives and to consult with qualified scholars for guidance on this matter. Ultimately, the most important aspect is to ensure that the intention is sincere and that the prayer is performed with devotion and humility.