Here's a breakdown:
* Nawafil (Sunnah): These prayers are recommended by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and offer additional rewards. They are not mandatory and are performed to gain extra blessings and draw closer to God.
* Supererogatory: This term simply means "beyond what is required." It emphasizes that these prayers are optional and not a religious obligation.
Examples of Nawafil prayers include:
* Sunnah prayers before and after the obligatory prayers: These are the most common types of Nawafil prayers.
* Tahajjud: Night prayers performed during the last part of the night.
* Witr: A single rak'ah (unit) prayer performed after the Isha (night) prayer.
* Dhuhr prayer: A two-rak'ah prayer performed after the noon (Dhuhr) prayer.
* Eid prayers: Performed on Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
* Tarawih: Special prayers performed during the month of Ramadan.
Benefits of performing Nawafil prayers:
* Increased closeness to God: Performing voluntary acts of worship deepens one's connection with the Divine.
* Enhanced spiritual growth: Nawafil prayers help individuals develop a more consistent and dedicated prayer practice.
* Rewards in the afterlife: Muslims believe that performing Nawafil prayers will be rewarded by God in the hereafter.
* Mental and emotional well-being: Engaging in acts of worship can provide a sense of peace, calmness, and purpose.
It's important to note that:
* Performing Nawafil prayers is a personal choice.
* One should strive to maintain consistency in the obligatory prayers before focusing on Nawafil.
* The number of raka'ahs (units) for each Nawafil prayer varies based on the specific prayer and religious traditions.
If you are interested in learning more about Nawafil prayers, it's recommended to consult with a qualified Islamic scholar or refer to reliable Islamic sources.