In the Islamic faith, dua istikhara is an important prayer that seeks guidance from Allah. It is performed when one is faced with a difficult decision, and the outcome is uncertain. We will discuss a step-by-step guide on how to perform istikhara, its significance, and the etiquette of the prayer.
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What is Dua Istikhara?
Dua istikhara is a prayer that seeks Allah’s guidance on a matter that is uncertain or ambiguous. It is a way of seeking Allah’s help in making the right decision, whether it is regarding personal, business, or any other matter. Dua istikhara is an essential part of the Islamic faith as it involves seeking Allah’s guidance in decision-making. It is a way of showing complete trust in Allah and acknowledging that only He knows what is best for us.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform Dua Istikhara
Performing dua istikhara is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform it:
Step 1: Perform Wudu
Perform Wudu, which is a ritual ablution that involves washing the face, hands, arms, feet, and mouth. This is done to purify oneself before prayer.
Step 2: Perform Two Rakats of Nafil Prayer
Perform two Rakats of Nafil prayer. In each Rakat, recite Surah Fatiha and any other Surah from the Quran. After completing the prayer, recite the dua istikhara.
Step 3: Recite Dua Istikhara
Recite the dua istikhara. Here is the dua:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمَكَ، وَأَسْتَقْدِرُكَ بِقُدْرَتِكَ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ الْعَظِيمِ، فَإِنَّكَ تَقْدِرُ وَلَا أَقْدِرُ، وَتَعْلَمُ، وَلَا أَعْلَمُ، وَأَنْتَ عَلَّامُ الْغُيُوبِ، اللَّهُمَّ إِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ- خَيْرٌ لِي فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي- عَاجِلِهِ وَآجِلِهِ- فَاقْدُرْهُ لِي وَيَسِّرْهُ لِي ثُمَّ بَارِكْ لِي فِيهِ، وَإِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ شَرٌّ لِي فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي- عَاجِلِهِ وَآجِلِهِ- فَاصْرِفْهُ عَنِّي وَاصْرِفْنِي عَنْهُ وَاقْدُرْ لِيَ الْخَيْرَ حَيْثُ كَانَ ثُمَّ أَرْضِنِي بِهِ
“Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi’ilmika, wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika, wa as’aluka min fadlika al-‘azim fa-innaka taqdiru wala aqdiru, wa ta’lamu wala a’lamu, wa anta ‘allamu l-ghuyub. Allahumma, in kunta ta’lam anna hadha-l-amra khairun li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa aqibati amri (or ‘ajili amri wa’ajilihi) faqdirhu li wa yas-sirhu li thumma barik li fihi, wa in kunta ta’lamu anna hadha-lamra sharrun li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa aqibati amri (or fi’ajili amri wa ajilihi) fasrifhu ‘anni was-rifni’anhu waqdir li al-khair haithu kana thumma ardini bihi.”
What are the Etiquette of Dua Istikhara
It is essential to observe proper etiquette when performing dua istikhara. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Have Pure Intentions
It is important to have pure intentions when performing dua istikhara. You should sincerely seek Allah’s guidance and trust in His decision.
Choose a Time and Place
Choose a quiet place and time where you will not be disturbed. This will help you focus on your prayer and seek Allah’s guidance without any distractions.
Recite Dua Istikhara with Focus and Concentration
Recite the dua istikhara with focus and concentration. You should be fully present in the moment and seek Allah’s guidance with an open heart.
How to Interpret the Results of Dua Istikhara
After performing dua istikhara, you may receive an answer in the form of a dream or a feeling in your heart. The answer may be clear or vague, and it is essential to interpret it correctly. Here are some guidelines to help you interpret the results of dua istikhara:
Look for Signs of Confirmation
If you receive a clear sign or feeling that confirms your decision, it may be a sign that Allah has guided you in the right direction. However, if you receive a vague or unclear sign, it may indicate that you need to seek further guidance.
Seek the Advice of Others
It is important to seek the advice of others, especially those who are knowledgeable and experienced. They may provide valuable insights and perspectives that can help you make an informed decision.
Trust in Allah’s Decision
No matter what the outcome may be, it is essential to trust in Allah’s decision. Remember that Allah knows what is best for us, and His decision is always in our best interest.
Common Misconceptions about Dua Istikhara
There are several misconceptions about dua istikhara that need to be addressed. Here are some of the most common ones:
Dua Istikhara is Not a Magic Solution
Dua istikhara is not a magic solution that will solve all your problems. It is a way of seeking Allah’s guidance in decision-making, and the outcome may not always be what we want.
Dua Istikhara Does Not Replace Common Sense
Dua istikhara does not replace common sense. It is essential to use our intellect and make informed decisions based on rational thinking and sound judgment.
Conclusion
Performing dua istikhara is a powerful way to seek Allah’s guidance in decision-making. By following the proper etiquette and interpreting the results correctly, we can make informed decisions that are in our best interest. It is important to trust in Allah’s decision and have faith in His guidance, knowing that His decision is always in our best interest.
Also Read: What Is Fidya?