Determination Of The Time For Tahajud Prayer In The Interpretation Of Al-Misbah From The Perspective Of Astronomy

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the concept of Tahajud prayer time according to Tafsir Al-Misbah by M. Quraish Shihab and examine it from the perspective of astronomy as a discipline that studies the calculation of worship times. The problems studied include: (1) What is the nature of Tahajud prayer time? (2) How is the calculation of Tahajud prayer time from the perspective of astronomy? (3) What is the perspective of astronomy on Tahajud prayer time in Tafsir al-Misbah? This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive library research approach, analyzing M. Quraish Shihab's interpretation in Tafsir al-Misbah of the verses about tahajud prayer (QS al-Isra/17:79, QS al-Furqan/25:64, QS al-Zariyat/51:17-18, and other related verses), then integrating it with astronomical calculations using geographic coordinate data, solar declination, equation of time, and regional time correction. The results of the study show that tahajud prayer has a deep spiritual dimension as a time of silence, cleansing the soul, and manifestation of love for Allah. Through comprehensive astronomical calculations, this study determined that the optimal time for performing the Tahajud prayer is in the last third of the night (01:37:40 WITA - 05:37 WITA), with the sun at a position of -60° 44' 37.98" below the horizon, in accordance with the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW about the descent of Allah to the heavens of the world at that time, so that the harmonization between the interpretation of the Qur'an and astronomy provides accurate and comprehensive guidelines for Muslims in performing the Tahajud prayer.