Qiyam is an Arabic term that means standing. Qiyam al Layl, also known as Tahajjud, Taraweeh, and Witr, is a voluntary prayer and worship that can be performed between the Isha and Fajr prayers. It is a highly virtuous act of worship in Islam. Qiyam al Layl includes reciting the Quran, making dua, and reflecting on ones deeds. The prayer begins in the standing position, and most of the reciting of the Quran that occurs during Islamic prayer is done while in Qiyam. The first chapter of the Quran, Al-Fatiha, is recited while standing.

Qiyam al Layl is considered an important part of Islamic worship, and it is so beloved to Allah Almighty that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has addressed its virtue in the following hadith: “The Lord descends every night to the lowest heaven when one-third of the night remains and says: ‘Who will call upon Me, that I may answer Him? Who will ask of Me, that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness, that I may forgive him?”.

The significance of Qiyam al Layl is stated in the Quran on several occasions: "And some part of the night keep vigil for it as an additional prayer for you; maybe that your Lord will raise you up to a praised position" . Qiyam al Layl is a time when a Muslim can seek forgiveness from Allah and make dua to Allah.

The position of hands in Qiyam varies among the different Islamic schools and branches. Where the hands are placed in Qiyam varies among the different Islamic schools and branches. These differences have manifested into the qabd-sadl dispute. Among Sunnis, several hadith indicate that qabd (praying with arms crossed) is desirable, if not obligatory; however, sadl (arms hanging by the sides) is still preferred among many Malikis.

In summary, Qiyam al Layl is a voluntary prayer and worship that can be performed between the Isha and Fajr prayers. It is a highly virtuous act of worship in Islam and includes reciting the Quran, making dua, and reflecting on ones deeds. The position of hands in Qiyam varies among the different Islamic schools and branches.