What is the recommended opening for the night prayer (Tahajjud)?
Chapter on the Times When Prayer is Prohibited
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Upon commencing the prayer during the night, the Prophet peace be upon him used to begin with a specific invocation mentioning the Archangels: 'O Allah, Lord of Jibril, Mika'il, and Israfil, Originator of the heavens and the earth, Knower of the unseen and the seen, You judge between Your servants concerning that wherein they used to differ. Guide me to the truth concerning that wherein they differ by Your permission. Indeed, You guide whomever You will to a straight path,' as narrated by Aisha and recorded by Muslim.
Supporting text
Aisha also narrated that upon rising, the Prophet peace be upon him would perform Takbir ten times, Tahmid ten times, Tasbih ten times, Tahlil ten times, and Istighfar ten times, followed by the supplication: 'O Allah, forgive me, guide me, provide for me, and grant me well-being,' and he would seek refuge from the narrowness of standing on the Day of Resurrection.