Introduction
Istikhara is a spiritual practice in Islam that seeks guidance from Allah when making important decisions. It is a way of seeking divine intervention to help determine the best course of action. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to perform Istikhara, along with the Arabic Istikhara dua.
Step 1: Purify Your Intentions
Before starting the Istikhara prayer, it is essential to purify your intentions. Make sure that your intention is solely seeking Allah’s guidance and not influenced by personal desires or biases.
Step 2: Perform Wudu
Perform ablution (wudu) to cleanse yourself physically and spiritually before engaging in the Istikhara prayer. Ensure that you are in a state of purity before beginning the prayer.
Step 3: Choose the Right Time
Choose a time when you can focus and have minimal distractions. It is recommended to perform Istikhara during the last third of the night, known as the time of Tahajjud. However, if this is not feasible, any time during the day is acceptable.
Step 4: Offer Two Rak’ahs
Begin by offering two rak’ahs (units) of voluntary prayer. These can be any non-obligatory prayers, such as the Sunnah or Nafl prayers.
Step 5: Recite the Istikhara Dua
After completing the two rak’ahs, recite the Istikhara dua. Here is the Arabic Istikhara dua:
“اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمِكَ 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 فَاقْدُرْهُ لِي وَيَسِّرْهُ لِي ثُمَّ بَارِكْ لِي فِيهِ، وَإِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ شَرٌّ فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي فَاصْرِفْهُ عَنِّي وَاصْرِفْنِي عَنْهُ وَاقْدُرْ لِيَ الْخَيْرَ حَيْثُ كَانَ ثُمَّ ارْضِنِي بِهِ.”
Step 6: Seek Guidance from Allah
After reciting the dua, sincerely ask Allah for guidance regarding the decision you are seeking. Reflect on the matter at hand and ask for clarity and wisdom.
Step 7: Pay Attention to Signs
After performing the Istikhara prayer, pay attention to any signs or feelings that may arise. These signs can come in various forms, such as dreams, intuition, or a change in circumstances. It is important to trust your instincts and rely on Allah’s guidance.
Step 8: Make a Decision
Based on the signs and guidance you receive, make a decision with confidence. Trust that Allah has guided you towards what is best for you, whether it aligns with your initial desires or not.
Conclusion
Istikhara is a powerful tool for seeking Allah’s guidance in important matters. By following the steps outlined in this guide and reciting the Arabic Istikhara dua, you can seek divine intervention and make informed decisions. Remember to have faith in Allah’s wisdom and trust the signs He provides.
Note: It is important to consult with a knowledgeable scholar or religious authority if you have any specific questions or concerns regarding Istikhara or any other religious practice.
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