How is the istikhara prayer performed?

The word "istikhara" means "seeking goodness" or "choosing the best option in a matter." When a Muslim is unsure about which of two permissible options to choose, they perform two rak‘ahs of istikhara prayer to seek the best and most beneficial choice.

Any surah can be recited in the istikhara prayer. However, it is recommended (mustahabb) to recite Surah al-Kafirun in the first rak‘ah and Surah al-Ikhlas in the second rak‘ah (Hashiyat Tahaawi, 397). After the prayer, the supplication of istikhara is recited. Then, one acts according to what their heart feels at ease with.

Regarding this, Jabir ibn Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "The Messenger of Allah used to teach us to make istikhara in all matters just as he would teach us a surah from the Qur'an. He would say: 'If any of you is concerned about a matter, let him pray two rak‘ahs other than the obligatory prayer, then say: ‘O Allah! I seek Your guidance [in making a choice] by Your knowledge, and I seek ability by Your power, and I ask You from Your immense bounty. For You are able and I am not, You know and I do not, and You are the Knower of the unseen. O Allah! If You know that this matter is good for my religion, my livelihood, and my Hereafter, then ordain it for me, make it easy for me, and bless it for me. But if You know that this matter is bad for my religion, my livelihood, and my Hereafter, then turn it away from me and turn me away from it, and decree for me what is good wherever it may be, and make me content with it. (O Lord!) Truly, You are able to do all things.'" (Bukhari).

After reciting this supplication, one asks Allah for what they need. If their heart inclines toward the matter, they proceed with hope. If not, it is up to them whether to go ahead or not. It is also possible that a person may see a dream as a sign, but this is not a requirement. If someone is unable to pray, such as women who are excused, they may still recite the istikhara supplication.

If a clear decision is not reached, the istikhara prayer can be repeated, up to seven times (Radd al-Muhtar, 2/26). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said to the Companion Anas:

"O Anas! If you intend to start something, seek istikhara from Allah up to seven times, then look at the outcome. Whichever your heart settles on, choose that, for that is best for you." (Ibn Sunni).

Istikhara is turning to Allah when starting something, asking Him to guide you to what is best. It connects the servant to Allah. This shows how important prayer is for a Muslim. We can even seek Allah’s counsel in worldly matters. At the same time, in every situation, we should not forget to consult those who are knowledgeable, experienced, and righteous. Allah says:

"(O Muhammad!) Consult with them in all matters." (Surah Al Imran, 159).

Prepared by Hasan AMANKUL,

"Munara" newspaper, No. 4, 2022