Isha prayer is 17 rak'ahs

The Isha prayer, one of the five obligatory daily prayers in Islam, consists of a total of 17 rak'ahs when including both obligatory and non-obligatory units. The prayer begins with 4 rak'ahs of Sunnah Mu’akkadah (emphasized Sunnah), followed by 4 rak'ahs of Fardh (obligatory), then 2 rak'ahs of Sunnah Mu’akkadah again. After that, 2 rak'ahs of Nafl (voluntary prayer) may be performed, and finally, the Witr prayer is offered with 3 rak'ahs, which is highly recommended and considered Wajib (necessary) by many scholars. These rak'ahs collectively enhance spiritual mindfulness and provide an extended opportunity for connection with Allah during the night. Performing all 17 rak'ahs regularly brings immense reward and reflects a deep commitment to the Islamic faith. Though only the 4 Fardh and 3 Witr are widely considered essential, completing the full 17 rak'ahs is highly virtuous and spiritually beneficial.