Istikhara

What is Istikhara?

• Istikhara is an Islamic practice derived from the Arabic word istikhārah (الاستخارة), which literally means "seeking goodness" or "seeking the best." In religious context, it refers to a special prayer and supplication made by Muslims when faced with a difficult decision, asking Allah for guidance towards what is best for them in this world and the Hereafter.
• Religious significance of Istikhara lies in its endorsement by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who taught his companions to perform it whenever they were uncertain about important matters. It is considered an act of trust in Allah’s wisdom, emphasizing the belief that only Allah knows what is truly beneficial or harmful for a person.
• Istikhara's usage and context are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, where scholars have explained that it is not limited to major life decisions like marriage or business, but can be performed for any matter where a person feels uncertainty. Classical Islamic jurists have elaborated on its methodology, highlighting its accessibility to all Muslims regardless of their level of knowledge.
• Spiritually, Istikhara serves as a means for Muslims to connect with Allah, demonstrating humility and reliance on divine guidance. It encourages believers to recognize their own limitations and to seek clarity and peace of mind through prayer, fostering a sense of contentment with whatever outcome Allah decrees.
• In practical terms, Istikhara is performed by offering two units of voluntary prayer followed by a specific supplication. In contemporary practice, Muslims often turn to Istikhara before making significant choices, viewing it as a proactive step that combines personal effort with spiritual reliance, and helping to alleviate anxiety about the unknown.

Examples of Istikhara

• Marriage Decision: "Before accepting the proposal, she decided to perform Istikhara to seek Allah's guidance."
• Job Offer: "He made Istikhara when he was unsure about accepting the new job opportunity."
• Buying a House: "They did Istikhara before finalizing the purchase of their new home."
• Travel Plans: "He performed Istikhara to help decide whether to travel abroad for studies."
• Following the Sunnah: "Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught his companions to make Istikhara in all important matters."

FAQs for Istikhara

What does Istikhara mean in English?

Istikhara means seeking goodness or guidance from Allah.

When should Muslims perform Istikhara?

Muslims should perform Istikhara when facing an important decision and seeking Allah’s guidance about the best course of action.

How did Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) teach Istikhara to his companions?

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught his companions to perform Istikhara by praying two units of prayer and then reciting a specific supplication asking Allah for guidance.

Is it necessary to see a dream after performing Istikhara?

It is not necessary to see a dream after performing Istikhara, as guidance may come through feelings of ease or circumstances becoming clear.

Can Istikhara be performed for any type of decision?

Istikhara can be performed for any permissible decision, whether related to marriage, business, travel, or other important matters.