Istikhara: How to Seek Allah's Guidance in Decisions

Salat al-Istikhara (the Prayer of Seeking Guidance) is a two-rakat voluntary prayer performed when a Muslim faces an important decision and seeks Allah's guidance. **What is Istikhara?** The Prophet (SAW) taught the companions Istikhara for every important matter, just as he taught them Quran. Jabir (RA) said: 'The Prophet (SAW) used to teach us Istikhara in all matters.' (Bukhari) **How to Perform Istikhara** 1. Make Wudu 2. Pray two rakats (not obligatory prayer) 3. After completing the prayer, recite the Istikhara dua: '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. Allahumma in kunta ta'lamu anna hadhal amra khayrun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa aqibati amri, faqdurhu li wa yassirhu li, thumma barik li fihi. Wa in kunta ta'lamu anna hadhal amra sharrun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa aqibati amri, fasrifhu anni wa srifni anhu, waqdur liya al-khayra haythu kana, thumma ardini bihi.' **After Istikhara** - There is no required sign or dream - Proceed with the decision that feels right and comfortable - If circumstances change to prevent the decision, that is a sign - You may repeat Istikhara up to 7 times **Common Misconceptions** - You do not have to wait for a dream - The answer is often found in how events unfold - Istikhara does not replace research and consultation (shura)