How to Pray Isha: Rakats and Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Answer
Isha (night prayer) is 10 rakats in the Hanafi school: 4 first sunnah + 4 fard + 2 final sunnah, followed by 3 rakats of witr. The first sunnah is non-emphasized. The first two rakats of the fard are recited aloud in congregation. Its time runs from nightfall until fajr.
Step-by-Step Summary
- 1First Sunnah — 4 Rakats (Non-Emphasized): Like the Asr sunnah: At-Tahiyyat + Salli-Barik in the first sitting; begin the third rakat with Subhanaka.
- 2Fard — 4 Rakats: Intend today's Isha fard. First two rakats Al-Fatiha + surah (aloud in congregation); last two Al-Fatiha only; full final sitting and salam.
- 3Final Sunnah — 2 Rakats: Pray 2 rakats like the fajr sunnah.
- 4Witr — 3 Rakats: After Isha, pray 3 rakats of witr with the Qunut duas in the third rakat (see the witr guide).
The Isha Prayer
Isha is the fifth and final obligatory prayer: 4 first sunnah + 4 fard + 2 final sunnah = 10 rakats, followed by witr. Today's time: prayer times.
| Part | Rakats | Ruling |
|---|---|---|
| First sunnah | 4 | Non-emphasized |
| Fard | 4 | Obligatory |
| Final sunnah | 2 | Emphasized sunnah |
| Witr | 3 | Wajib |
The 4-Rakat First Sunnah
Like the Asr sunnah: At-Tahiyyat + Salli-Barik in the first sitting; Subhanaka at the start of the third rakat.
The 4-Rakat Fard
First two rakats Al-Fatiha + surah (aloud in congregation); last two Al-Fatiha only; full final sitting with Rabbana and salam.
Final Sunnah and Witr
The 2-rakat final sunnah is prayed like the fajr sunnah. Then pray witr — with the Qunut duas in its third rakat — and finish with the tasbih.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rakats is Isha?
10 in total: 4 first sunnah + 4 fard + 2 final sunnah. Witr (3 rakats) follows Isha but is a separate wajib prayer.
When is Isha time?
It begins when the evening twilight disappears and lasts until fajr. Praying it before the first third of the night ends is recommended.
Is witr part of Isha?
No, witr is a separate wajib prayer performed after the Isha fard. One who trusts they will wake may delay witr to the end of the night.