What is the ruling on performing two rakʿahs in congregation in the mosque after the ‘isha prayer, as a reminder of the Sunnah of qiyam al-layl and to encourage its performance in homes?

There is no harm in this provided it is not made obligatory. It is established in Islamic law that any act for which congregational performance is not prescribed—which the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) regularly performed on an individual basis—may be performed in congregation without dislike. This is evidenced by Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both) following the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in ‘isha (night) prayer at the house of his maternal aunt, the Mother of the Believers Maymunah (may Allah be pleased with her), as reported in an authentic hadith. Ibn Masʿud (may Allah be pleased with him) and others likewise performed qiyam al-layl (the night vigil prayer, a voluntary prayer performed any time after the ‘isha prayer and before dawn) behind the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). It is known that its congregational performance is not recommended except in Ramadan; however, it is permissible as previously stated.

 

The ruling

Based on the above, it is permissible to perform two rakʿahs (units of prayer) in congregation after the ʿisha prayer; it is not disliked provided it is not made into an obligation. If, however, it is made obligatory upon others and those who do not perform it are deemed sinful, then this becomes a bid’ah (reprehensible innovation) because it entails making binding what Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) did not.

And Allah Almighty knows best.