Ishtikara ki dua is a special prayer in Islam wherein the Muslim asks Allah (SWT) to guide him or her while making a decision or even in confusion. The Arabic root word “khayr” means goodness or betterment. To do istikhara is essentially to seek Allah’s guidance on whatever is best for you both in this world and hereafter.
Why Perform Ishtikara?
Life is full of decisions—be it big or small. At times, we are confused about what to take or not. Whether this decision is about marriage or career or education or related to any personal issue; in such a scenario, Ishtikara works as an intermediary between Allah and you while clearing your thoughts. That is how one puts one’s trust in Him believing that He alone knows better for you.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught his companions the practice of Ishtikara and emphasized its importance. He said:
“If any of you feels anxious about some decision he has to take or about something, let him pray two rak’ahs of nafl and then say: ‘O Allah, I ask for Your guidance through Your knowledge, and I ask for ability through Your power.”. And I ask You of Your great bounty, for You have power and I do not, and You know and I do not; and You are the Knower of the unseen…'” (Sahih Bukhari)
How to Perform Ishtikara?
To perform Ishtikara is quite simple and involves the following steps:
Make Wudu (Ablution): Make sure you are pure before you begin the prayer.
Pray Two Rak’ahs of Salah: These are non-obligatory prayers dedicated specifically for Ishtikara.
Recite the Ishtikara Dua: After performing the Salah, recite the Istikhara ki Dua with sincerity and concentration. Below is the full text of the dua:
“Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi ‘ilmika wa astaqdiruka bi qudratika wa as’aluka min fadlika al-‘azeem. Fa innaka taqdiru wala aqdiru wa ta’lamu wala a’lamu wa anta ‘allaamul-ghuyoob. Allahumma in kunta ta’lamu anna hadha’l-amra khayrun li fi deeni wa ma’ashi wa ‘aqibati amri… [to the end of the dua]”
Mention Your Matter: While making the dua, remember the particular decision or matter to which you need guidance about.
Trust Allah’s Guidance: After doing Ishtikara, one should trust Allah. The guidance may come in the form of a feeling, ease, or events that unfold in your favor.
Common Misconceptions About Ishtikara
There are many misconceptions about Ishtikara. Here are a few clarifications:
Ishtikara is Not About Dreams: Although some people report dreams after doing Ishtikara, it is not a prerequisite or a guarantee. The answer to your dua may come in the form of feelings, clarity, or ease in making a decision.
Ishtikara Does Not Replace Effort: Performing Ishtikara does not mean you should forget research, consultation, or logical thinking. It just complements your efforts.
There is no specified time for Ishtikara. However, one is allowed to perform Ishtikara at any time of the day, provided he is clear-minded and without disturbance.
Benefits of Ishtikara
- It strengthens the connection with Allah.
- Helps in achieving peace of mind and reduces anxiety.
- Decision-making becomes clear.
- The search is for the best; both for the world and the hereafter.
Conclusion
Ishtikara ki Dua is a beautiful gift in Islam through which believers seek Allah’s guidance in uncertain times. Therefore, if you are a sincere and trust Allah to perform this dua, then you will surely find life easier to tackle confidently and with a peaceful mind. Allah’s plan is always better than ours, and you do that through Ishtikara by making your choices line up with His divine wisdom.
If you’d like to learn more about Ishtikara or other Islamic supplications, visit our resources at SurahNas.com.
