In our lives, we face numerous decisions, both big and small. Some of these decisions can have a significant impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. In such situations, seeking divine guidance is of utmost importance.
In Islam, Salat al-Istikhara is a powerful tool and a Sunnah prayer that helps in making the best decisions by seeking Allah’s guidance.
In our quest to make the right decisions, Salat al-Istikhara serves as a beacon of divine guidance, enabling us to navigate through the complex and often uncertain aspects of life.
By performing this prayer, we open ourselves to Allah’s great blessings and wisdom, ensuring that our choices align with His will. As we embark on important tasks or make life-altering decisions, turning to Salat al-Istikhara not only grants us Allah’s blessing but also reinforces our faith and trust in His infinite knowledge and guidance.
This prayer is a beautiful reminder that when we seek Allah’s help and wisdom, we can confidently face the challenges that life presents to us.
In this blog post, we will discuss the step-by-step process of performing Salat al-Istikhara, the prayer of guidance.
You will find the Istikhara Dua in Arabic, English, and transliteration, and how to interpret the results after praying.
What is Salat al-Istikhara?
Salat al-Istikhara (الصلاة الاستخارة) is a voluntary prayer, consisting of a two Rakat prayer, prescribed by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for seeking Allah’s guidance when faced with a particular matter or decision, such as a marriage proposal, job offer, or any other major life decision. The term Istikhara means “seeking the best from Allah (SWT).” This prayer allows Muslims to place their trust in Allah’s wisdom, knowledge, and guidance while making important decisions.
Step-by-step guide to performing Salat al-Istikhara
- Perform ablution (wudu) with proper manners.
- Begin the prayer by making your intention (niyyah) for Salat al-Istikhara.
- Pray two Rakat (units) of voluntary prayer.
- In the first Rakat, after reciting Surah Al-Fatiha, recite Surah Al-Kafirun.
- In the second Rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Al-Ikhlas.
- After completing the two Rakat, say “Allahu Akbar” and sit for the final Tashahhud.
- After the Tashahhud, recite the Istikhara Dua (supplication) in Arabic, transliteration, or English.
The Istikhara Dua
Arabic Text:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمِكَ وَأَسْتَقْدِرُكَ بِقُدْرَتِكَ وَأَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ الْعَظِيمِ فَإِنَّكَ تَقْدِرُ وَلاَ أَقْدِرُ وَتَعْلَمُ وَلاَ أَعْلَمُ وَأَنْتَ عَلاَّمُ الْغُيُوبِ
Transliteration: Use this to help with the pronunciation of the Arabic words if you don’t read arabic text.
Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi’ilmika wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika wa as’aluka min fadlika al-‘azim, fa’innaka taqdiru wa la aqdiru wa ta’lamu wa la a’lamu wa anta ‘allamu al-ghuyub.
English Translation for dua of istikhara :
“O Allah, I seek Your guidance (in making a choice) by virtue of Your knowledge, and I seek ability by virtue of Your power, and I ask You of Your great bounty. You have power, and I have none. And You know, and I know not. You are the Knower of hidden things.”
After reciting the Istikhara supplication, complete the prayer by saying “Assalamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullah” to both sides.
It is recommended to perform Salat al-Istikhara on separate occasions and to pray the non-obligatory prayers before or after the obligatory prayers for better concentration and connection with Allah SWT.
Origins of Salat al-Istikhara:
Salat al-Istikhara, which translates to “Prayer of Seeking Counsel,” has its origins deeply rooted in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The Hadith, narrated by Jabir ibn ‘Abd-Allah al-Salami, a well-known disciple of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, highlights the importance of this prayer in the daily lives of Muslims.
Jabir ibn ‘Abd-Allah al-Salami reported that the Messenger of Allah used to teach his companions to seek counsel from Allah (Istikhaara) in all matters, just as he used to teach them chapters from the Qur’an. He said:
“If any one of you is concerned about a decision he has to make or wants to take an action, then let him pray two units (raka’ah) of voluntary salah (prayer) and say: [1]
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمِكَ وَأَسْتَقْدِرُكَ بِقُدْرَتِكَ وَأَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ الْعَظِيمِ فَإِنَّكَ تَقْدِرُ وَلاَ أَقْدِرُ وَتَعْلَمُ وَلاَ أَعْلَمُ وَأَنْتَ عَلاَّمُ الْغُيُوبِ
This Hadith emphasizes the significance of Salat al-Istikhara as an essential part of a Muslim’s life, guiding them in seeking Allah’s counsel for their decisions and actions. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged his companions to practice Istikhara regularly, emphasizing its importance in connecting with Allah and seeking His guidance, similar to how they would learn chapters from the Holy Qur’an.
This Hadith from Jabir bin Abdullah is reported by al-Bukhaari, al-Tirmidhi, al-Nisaa’i, Abu Dawood, Ibn Majah and Ahmad
How to Interpret the Results of Salat al-Istikhara
The result of the Istikhara prayer may come in the form of a dream, a symbolic vision, a strong feeling, or a sense of inner peace about the decision. However, it is important to remember that the answer may not always be clear or immediate.
- Dreams: Some people may see a dream with white clothing, white sky, white light or green clothes, which indicates a positive or “green light” answer from Allah. On the other hand, red clothing or a red light may symbolize a negative or “red light” response. However, dreams are not always a reliable source of guidance, as they can be influenced by various factors.
- Feelings: A strong feeling of peace and tranquility about the decision can be an indication that Allah SWT approves of your choice. Alternatively, a persistent feeling of uneasiness or discomfort may indicate that the decision is not right for you.
- Circumstances: Sometimes, Allah SWT may guide you by opening doors or creating favorable circumstances for the decision you seek guidance about. If doors close or obstacles arise, this may be a sign that the decision is not in your best interest.
It is essential to remember that Allah’s guidance may not always align with our desires, but His knowledge and wisdom are superior to ours. Trust in Allah’s decision and follow the course of action that you feel is best after performing Salat al-Istikhara.
Salat al-Istikhara is a powerful and essential tool in the life of a Muslim, as it helps us seek Allah’s guidance and blessings in making the right decisions, especially when faced with major life decisions. By following the steps outlined above and reciting the Istikhara Dua with sincerity and faith, we can confidently face life’s challenges and decisions, knowing that we are under the watchful eye of Allah SWT. Remember that the best time to perform Istikhara is when you genuinely need divine guidance, and always have faith in the outcome, as Allah Almighty knows best.