× Register Login What's New! Contact us
Page 2 of 6 First 1 2 3 4 ... Last
Results 21 to 40 of 105 visibility 152299

Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

  1. #1
    brightness_1
    Spread this Avatar!
    Array - Qatada -'s Avatar
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Location
    ...travelling to the hereafter..
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    11,346
    Threads
    798
    Reputation
    62150
    Rep Power
    157
    Rep Ratio
    55
    Likes Ratio
    5

    Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.) (OP)



    Asalaamu 'alykum warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.


    What is Istikharah?


    Many times you be stuck in some sort of situation and you hear brothers and sisters shouting out 'do istikharah!' You've never heard of that word before, or you've heard of it but you've never known how to perform it?

    You have questions in your head but you might feel too embarassed to ask, or you may not have the right person to ask.


    You think to yourself; -

    What is istikharah? What is the proper method of performing it? Is it true that for Istikharah to be valid, one must experience some kind of a dream indicating the proper course of action to follow?


    Insha Allaah (God willing) you will learn abit more about istikharah and how to perform it. By the end of reading this article, if you still need a deeper understanding - then please dont be afraid to ask or voice your opinion. Learning is an important factor in islam so please dont be afraid to ask. Jazak Allaah khayr.




    Istikharah Prayer



    Istikharah prayer is a two-rak`ah non-obligatory Prayer by which one seeks Allah's guidance when he is confused or can't choose between permissible alternatives. In this case, the Muslim should pray to Allah the Almighty to guide him to whatever He sees fit for him and make his heart satisfied with the decision.


    In the Prayer, one asks Allah to facilitate the matter if it is good and turn it away if it is not. Thus, after praying Istikharah, one should decide on a course of action, and trust that if the matter does not work out, it is because it was not good for him. One should not then feel disappointed if things did not go as hoped.


    Istikharah is only prescribed for matters deemed permissible by the Shari`ah and not for any issue that plainly opposes Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala's Laws. It is when you have two permissible options and you do not know which is better for you that you should resort to Allah the Almighty to seek His guidance.



    Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:


    “Istikharah means, "seeking the best course of action." In Islam, it is used for approaching Allah through Prayer for guidance in a case when one cannot make up his mind. It should, however, be pointed out, that Istikharah applies strictly to cases that are halal (lawful or permissible), since there cannot be a question of choice concerning matters that are considered haram (unlawful or impermissible).





    When faced with important decisions in life, a believer is persuaded to use all of his Allah-given resources, as well as to consult people who are known for their knowledge, piety and sound opinion. After having done so, he can turn to Allah for guidance.


    Humans are limited in knowledge, and Allah alone possesses perfect knowledge. Allah has told us that He alone possesses the keys to all that is good. He has also promised to help us if we turn to Him earnestly and sincerely.


    We see around us people doing all sorts of things for confirmation when faced with important decisions in their life. The Pre-Islamic Arabs resorted to the practice of divining with arrows or the stirring of birds. In modern times, even some of the most prominent people consult astrologers, psychics, gurus or so called spiritual masters. Islam teaches that since Allah alone knows the unseen realities, and He alone is aware of what is good for us in an absolute sense, we must seek His help.



    Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be on him) taught us how to do so. He told us that if we are faced with decisions in life and are unable to make up our mind, we must approach Allah through Prayer. This Prayer is called Prayer of Istikharah. It is a Sunnah or a highly recommended act. The specific method of doing it, is as follows:
    First, one must offer a Prayer of two rak`ahs with the intention of seeking guidance from Allah. Then he should offer the following supplication:


    02674 1 - Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    "Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi`ilmika, wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika, wa as'aluka min fadlika al-azim, fa'innaka taqdiru wala aqdiru, wa ta`lamu wa la a`lamu, wa anta `allamu-l-ghuyub.

    Allahumma, in kunta ta`lamu anna hadhal-amra [here mention your case] khairun li fi dini wa ma`ashi wa `aqibati 'amri (or 'ajili amri wa`ajilihi) faqdurhu li wa yas-sirhu li thumma barik li fihi.

    Wa in ta`lamu anna hadhal-amra sharrun li fi deeni wa ma`ashi wa `aqibati 'amri (or `ajili amri wa ajilihi) fasrifhu `anni was-rifni `anhu, waqdur liya al-khaira haithu kana thumma 'ardini bihi.”



    (O Allah, I seek Your help in finding out the best course of action (in this matter) by invoking Your knowledge; I ask You to empower me, and I beseech Your favor. You alone have the absolute power, while I have no power. You alone know it all, while I do not. You are the One Who knows the hidden mysteries. O Allah, if You know this thing (I am embarking on) [here mention your case] is good for me in my religion, worldly life, and my ultimate destiny, then facilitate it for me, and then bless me in my action. If, on the other hand, You know this thing is detrimental for me in my religion, worldly life, and ultimate destiny, turn it away from me, and turn me away from it, and decree what is good for me, wherever it may be, and make me content with it.)
    After having done so, he should follow the decision that he is strongly inclined to. If he feels no such inclination, then he should choose one of the options; he can rest assured that Allah will guide his steps. It has been reported that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said, "One who asks Allah for guidance in choosing the best course of action will never be a loser."



    It is not at all necessary for a person to have visions or dreams following Istikharah. However, if a person does experience a vision or dream, and he feels strongly about it, he should follow it.” (Source: www.islam.ca)




    Imam An-Nawawi (may Allah bless his soul) adds:


    “After making Istikharah, a person must do what he or she is wholeheartedly inclined to do and feels good about doing and should not insist on doing what he had desired to do before making the Istikharah. And if his or her feelings change, he or she should leave what he or she had intended to do, for otherwise he or she is not leaving the choice to Allah, and would not be honest in seeking help from Allah's power and knowledge. Sincerity in seeking Allah's choice means that one should completely abandon what one desired oneself.”



    Also, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former head of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and member of the Fiqh Council of North America, states:

    “Doing Istikharah does not mean that one should not use one's reason or experience. Allah the Exalted has commanded us in the Qur'an that we should use our intellect and seek knowledge. If we do not know something, we should ask those who know. But human reason has limitations. We do not know everything; only Allah does know all things. When we are faced with a dilemma then we should turn to Allah to seek His guidance.




    After offering Istikharah, you may do whatever is best in your understanding or whatever convinces you. You may repeat the du`a' of Istikharah several times if you are still hesitant. It is not necessary to dream about anything and you do not have to wait for an answer in your dreams.




    Most of the hadiths on this subject do not talk about any dream. However, the famous Hanafi jurist Ibn `Abdeen has suggested in his Hashiyah that one should make the Istikharah Prayer before sleeping, and should sleep after having performed Wudu'. The face should be towards Makkah. If one sees something white or green in one's dream, then the answer is yes, but if one sees something dark or red then the answer is no.



    Other jurists of Shafi`i, Maliki, Hanbali and Ja`fari schools say that one should do that which is most convincing. According to Imam Malik, other people can also perform Istikharah on behalf of someone.



    There is nothing strange about dreams. If you did not see any dreams, then it does not mean that dreams do not occur. After the Istikharah Prayer, some people may see a dream and some may not. We know that some of our dreams become true. Some time we see something in a dream and it happens exactly the same way later. As there are good dreams and bad dreams, so there are also true and false dreams. The interpretation of dreams is a special knowledge that some people have. In the Qur'an many dreams are mentioned. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) saw in his dream that he was sacrificing his son. Prophet Yusuf (peace be upon him) had dreams and Allah also gave him the knowledge of interpreting dreams. Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) also sometimes interpreted the dreams of his Companions.”




    Allah Almighty knows best.


    Source.


    Other Questions.


    Salatul Istikharah: Any Sign of Response?


    Istikharah Prayer: Rules & Signs of Response




    more info:
    Last edited by - Qatada -; 07-21-2007 at 03:25 PM.
    | Likes SyrianFellow, Bint-e-Adam liked this post

  2. #21
    ------'s Avatar
    brightness_1
    Account Disabled
    star_rate
    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    11,483
    Threads
    205
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    1
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Report bad ads?



    I have used Istikharah as well and Alhumdulillah it came in use.

    chat Quote

  3. Report bad ads?
  4. #22
    Farhiya's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    Toronto
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    92
    Threads
    13
    Rep Power
    112
    Rep Ratio
    15
    Likes Ratio
    2

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)



    jazakallah thx for Sharing that with us brother
    chat Quote

  5. #23
    Slave of Rehman's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Apr 2006
    Location
    in the Valley of Barakah
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    183
    Threads
    43
    Rep Power
    110
    Rep Ratio
    12
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    format_quote Originally Posted by Fi_Sabilillah View Post

    Salaam o 'alykum warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.


    What is Istikharah?


    Many times you be stuck in some sort of situation and you hear brothers and sisters shouting out 'do istikharah!' You've never heard of that word before, or you've heard of it but you've never known how to perform it?

    You have questions in your head but you might feel too embarassed to ask, or you may not have the right person to ask.


    You think to yourself; -

    What is istikharah? What is the proper method of performing it? Is it true that for Istikharah to be valid, one must experience some kind of a dream indicating the proper course of action to follow?


    Insha Allaah (God willing) you will learn abit more about istikharah and how to perform it. By the end of reading this article, if you still need a deeper understanding - then please dont be afraid to ask or voice your opinion. Learning is an important factor in islam so please dont be afraid to ask. Jazak Allaah khayr.




    Istikharah Prayer



    Istikharah prayer is a two-rak`ah non-obligatory Prayer by which one seeks Allah's guidance when he is confused or can't choose between permissible alternatives. In this case, the Muslim should pray to Allah the Almighty to guide him to whatever He sees fit for him and make his heart satisfied with the decision.


    In the Prayer, one asks Allah to facilitate the matter if it is good and turn it away if it is not. Thus, after praying Istikharah, one should decide on a course of action, and trust that if the matter does not work out, it is because it was not good for him. One should not then feel disappointed if things did not go as hoped.


    Istikharah is only prescribed for matters deemed permissible by the Shari`ah and not for any issue that plainly opposes Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala's Laws. It is when you have two permissible options and you do not know which is better for you that you should resort to Allah the Almighty to seek His guidance.



    Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:


    “Istikharah means, "seeking the best course of action." In Islam, it is used for approaching Allah through Prayer for guidance in a case when one cannot make up his mind. It should, however, be pointed out, that Istikharah applies strictly to cases that are halal (lawful or permissible), since there cannot be a question of choice concerning matters that are considered haram (unlawful or impermissible).





    When faced with important decisions in life, a believer is persuaded to use all of his Allah-given resources, as well as to consult people who are known for their knowledge, piety and sound opinion. After having done so, he can turn to Allah for guidance.


    Humans are limited in knowledge, and Allah alone possesses perfect knowledge. Allah has told us that He alone possesses the keys to all that is good. He has also promised to help us if we turn to Him earnestly and sincerely.


    We see around us people doing all sorts of things for confirmation when faced with important decisions in their life. The Pre-Islamic Arabs resorted to the practice of divining with arrows or the stirring of birds. In modern times, even some of the most prominent people consult astrologers, psychics, gurus or so called spiritual masters. Islam teaches that since Allah alone knows the unseen realities, and He alone is aware of what is good for us in an absolute sense, we must seek His help.



    Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be on him) taught us how to do so. He told us that if we are faced with decisions in life and are unable to make up our mind, we must approach Allah through Prayer. This Prayer is called Prayer of Istikharah. It is a Sunnah or a highly recommended act. The specific method of doing it, is as follows:







    After having done so, he should follow the decision that he is strongly inclined to. If he feels no such inclination, then he should choose one of the options; he can rest assured that Allah will guide his steps. It has been reported that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said, "One who asks Allah for guidance in choosing the best course of action will never be a loser."



    It is not at all necessary for a person to have visions or dreams following Istikharah. However, if a person does experience a vision or dream, and he feels strongly about it, he should follow it.” (Source: www.islam.ca)




    Imam An-Nawawi (may Allah bless his soul) adds:


    “After making Istikharah, a person must do what he or she is wholeheartedly inclined to do and feels good about doing and should not insist on doing what he had desired to do before making the Istikharah. And if his or her feelings change, he or she should leave what he or she had intended to do, for otherwise he or she is not leaving the choice to Allah, and would not be honest in seeking help from Allah's power and knowledge. Sincerity in seeking Allah's choice means that one should completely abandon what one desired oneself.”



    Also, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former head of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and member of the Fiqh Council of North America, states:

    “Doing Istikharah does not mean that one should not use one's reason or experience. Allah the Exalted has commanded us in the Qur'an that we should use our intellect and seek knowledge. If we do not know something, we should ask those who know. But human reason has limitations. We do not know everything; only Allah does know all things. When we are faced with a dilemma then we should turn to Allah to seek His guidance.




    After offering Istikharah, you may do whatever is best in your understanding or whatever convinces you. You may repeat the du`a' of Istikharah several times if you are still hesitant. It is not necessary to dream about anything and you do not have to wait for an answer in your dreams. It is reported in a Hadith that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "O Anas, when you intend to do some important things, then seek the good (seek Istikharah) from your Lord seven times and then do that to which your heart (or mind) is inclined, because the good is in it."





    Most of the hadiths on this subject do not talk about any dream. However, the famous Hanafi jurist Ibn `Abdeen has suggested in his Hashiyah that one should make the Istikharah Prayer before sleeping, and should sleep after having performed Wudu'. The face should be towards Makkah. If one sees something white or green in one's dream, then the answer is yes, but if one sees something dark or red then the answer is no.



    Other jurists of Shafi`i, Maliki, Hanbali and Ja`fari schools say that one should do that which is most convincing. According to Imam Malik, other people can also perform Istikharah on behalf of someone.



    There is nothing strange about dreams. If you did not see any dreams, then it does not mean that dreams do not occur. After the Istikharah Prayer, some people may see a dream and some may not. We know that some of our dreams become true. Some time we see something in a dream and it happens exactly the same way later. As there are good dreams and bad dreams, so there are also true and false dreams. The interpretation of dreams is a special knowledge that some people have. In the Qur'an many dreams are mentioned. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) saw in his dream that he was sacrificing his son. Prophet Yusuf (peace be upon him) had dreams and Allah also gave him the knowledge of interpreting dreams. Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) also sometimes interpreted the dreams of his Companions.”




    Allah Almighty knows best.


    Source.


    Other Questions.


    Salatul Istikharah: Any Sign of Response?


    Istikharah Prayer: Rules & Signs of Response



    Humm good artical.
    Jazakallah
    chat Quote

  6. #24
    Omar Khalil's Avatar Limited Member
    brightness_1
    Limited Member
    star_rate
    Join Date
    Apr 2006
    Location
    Connecticut
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    24
    Threads
    3
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    23
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    thank you for this thread, being fairly new to the deen...I never even heard of this prayer!
    chat Quote

  7. Report bad ads?
  8. #25
    Maimunah's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Oldtimer
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Mar 2006
    Location
    london
    Posts
    2,205
    Threads
    21
    Rep Power
    116
    Rep Ratio
    45
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    format_quote Originally Posted by Omar Khalil View Post
    thank you for this thread, being fairly new to the deen...I never even heard of this prayer!
    salaam
    its a prayer of guidence u say this prayer when ur in dilema and u dont know what to do, so u ask allah for help for he knows everything.
    wasalaam
    Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    رَبِّ ٱجۡعَلۡنِى مُقِيمَ ٱلصَّلَوٰةِ وَمِن ذُرِّيَّتِى*ۚ رَبَّنَا وَتَقَبَّلۡ دُعَآءِ (٤٠) رَبَّنَا ٱغۡفِرۡ لِى وَلِوَٲلِدَىَّ وَلِلۡمُؤۡمِنِينَ يَوۡمَ يَقُومُ ٱلۡحِسَابُ
    chat Quote

  9. #26
    Slave of Rehman's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Apr 2006
    Location
    in the Valley of Barakah
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    183
    Threads
    43
    Rep Power
    110
    Rep Ratio
    12
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    thats right Sister.
    Jazakallah
    chat Quote

  10. #27
    M H Kahn's Avatar
    brightness_1
    Awaiting email confirmation
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    407
    Threads
    18
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    9
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    When one cannot decide about a course of action, he may say two-raka salah and then seek Allah's help in finding the decision. This is what I know to be "Istikharah Prayer"; but there is no certainty that your heart may give you the decision desired by you after saying this salah, as only Allah knows what is the best for you. Istkhara salah is just one of the many ways of seeking Allah's help. We cannot do without seeking Allah's help and guidance; and we do this in many ways.

    But we have cheats among our so-called Islamic scholars who claim that they can know the unknown, that is the gayeb by the 'Istikharah Prayer". They deceive innocent people and build their fortune on it.
    chat Quote

  11. #28
    M H Kahn's Avatar
    brightness_1
    Awaiting email confirmation
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    407
    Threads
    18
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    9
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    After the Istikharah Prayer, some people may see a dream and some may not.
    The question of dream is just a fiction invented by misguided scholars to earn money.
    chat Quote

  12. #29
    Lina's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Oldtimer
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Apr 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    1,146
    Threads
    44
    Rep Power
    119
    Rep Ratio
    46
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)



    Reaping the Fruits of Afflictions

    By Mohammad Fat-hi
    April 13, 2005


    Abu Sa`id and Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with them) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “No fatigue, nor disease, nor anxiety, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

    This world is no more than a test in which all humans are bound to face some hardships and challenges that reveal their patience and steadfastness. The forms of this test are numerous and diverse: Some people suffer poverty, some suffer physical illnesses, some live in a state of insecurity, some are deprived of their cherished and beloved ones, and still others suffer psychiatric disorders. Referring to this fact, Allah says:

    [And surely We shall try you with something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives and crops; but give glad tidings to the patient, Who says, when afflicted with calamity: “To Allah We belong, and to Him is our return”: They are those on whom (descend) Blessings from Allah, and Mercy, and they are the ones that receive guidance.] (Al-Baqarah 2:155-157)

    In another verse, He Almighty says:

    [He Who created Death and Life, that He may try which of you is best in deed: and He is the Exalted in Might, Oft-Forgiving.] (Al-Mulk 67:2)

    Since trials and hardships are inevitable, Islam does not let them pass by without instructing Muslims on the best course of action or by guiding them to the safest and most appropriate attitude. The Hadith reveal one dimension of Islam’s recipe for successfully dealing with life’s challenges. In order to balance the negative effects posed by afflictions, Islam draws our attention to their expected fruit. Problems and troubles serve as means to expiate sins and elevate the believer’s rank in the Hereafter. This optimistic and positive approach safeguards one from falling prey to despair and grief. Here, it is fitting to cite some Prophetic hadiths that emphasize this concept:

    Abu Yahya Suhaib bin Sinan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “How wonderful is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything and this applies only to a believer. If prosperity attends him, he expresses gratitude to Allah and that is good for him; and if adversity befalls him, he endures it patiently and that is good for him”(Muslim).

    Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “He whom Allah intends good, He makes him to suffer from some affliction” (Al-Bukhari).

    Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “A Muslim, male or female, continues to remain under trial in respect of his life, property, and offspring until he faces Allah, the Exalted, with no sin record” (At-Tirmidhi).

    The above hadiths should not be mistaken for a call to fatalism and defeatism. The message the hadiths convey is that every Muslim should expect hardships and prepare to weather them. This point makes a distinction between one who trusts in Allah and believes in His mercy and one who feels that he is alone in this world, that he faces its formidable challenges isolated from any source of support or assistance. So, these hadiths are meant to infuse the Muslim with hope and vigor and drive away the destructive thoughts of failure and hopelessness. To get a better understanding of them, they should be considered light of the following hadiths:

    Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:

    The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “A strong believer is better and dearer to Allah than a weak one, and both are good. Adhere to that which is beneficial for you. Keep asking Allah for help and do not refrain from it. (If you are afflicted in any way), do not say: ‘If I had taken this or that step, it would have resulted into such and such,’ but say only: ‘Allah so determined and did as He willed.’ The word ‘if’ opens the gates of satanic (thoughts)” (Muslim).

    In line with this hadith comes the Prophet’s advice to his cousin Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) to know that with patience comes victory, with distress comes relief, and with hardship comes ease.

    In this respect, one idea may be a source of worry and disturbance. How can we approach afflictions with such optimism when they are clear signs of Allah’s wrath and manifestations of His punishment? Has not Allah said, [Whatever misfortune happens to you, is because of the things your hands have wrought, and for many (of them) He grants forgiveness] (Ash-Shura 42:30)? Actually, this question haunts many people, especially the practicing ones when they are afflicted with a calamity, deprived of a cherished person, or plagued with an illness. The problem is that in many cases this thought becomes a source of frustration and depression. Instead of being an incentive to hastening to Allah and drawing closer to him, the idea serves sometimes as a dispiriting factor. So, let’s see how the Companions viewed the above verse and how they took it positively and optimistically.

    In his comment on this verse, Imam Al-Qurtubi reports that `Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) said, “This verse is the most hopeful one in the Qur’an; if my sins are to be expiated through afflictions and calamities, and in addition to that, Allah forgives many other sins, then what will remain after such expiation and forgiveness?”

    True, life’s disasters leave hearts broken and loved ones deprived, but the bright believer knows how turn them into a source of determination and a fountain of strength. I conclude with the beautiful authentic hadith in which the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) tells us that the people who face the harshest trial (bla’) are the prophets, then those next to them (in faith and devotion), and then the next. Everyone will be tried according to his level of faith; one who has strong faith will undergo a harsh trial and one who is of weak faith will receive a weak trial. And the affliction will encompass one until he becomes free of sins altogether

    http://islamonline.net/English/Hadit...05/04/01.shtml

    Subhan'Allah.

    Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    We're gonna need a bigger boat
    chat Quote

  13. Report bad ads?
  14. #30
    saidaharther's Avatar
    brightness_1
    Account Disabled
    star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2006
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    81
    Threads
    2
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    3
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    jazak allah khayr for istihkarah information, i wondering though if i am in urgent situation and i just make the dua, is that enough or should i pray after when i have time?
    salam alaikum
    chat Quote

  15. #31
    Nafiisah's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Apr 2006
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    239
    Threads
    2
    Rep Power
    110
    Rep Ratio
    7
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Allah sees what is in the hearts.So your intention of getting guidance from the Almighty is very important. Maybe you could make the dua(Ya Allah, U r the knower of all things and I know bnot. If this matter is good for my religion, my livelihood, present and future, make it easy for me and make me content with it.....) and then do the Istikharah salaat as soon as possible

    Wa salaam 3alaikum
    Nafiisah
    chat Quote

  16. #32
    saidaharther's Avatar
    brightness_1
    Account Disabled
    star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2006
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    81
    Threads
    2
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    3
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    jazak allah hayr sister
    chat Quote

  17. #33
    SistaHH's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2006
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    139
    Threads
    1
    Rep Power
    109
    Rep Ratio
    2
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Jazakhallah Khair for the article. it was really helpful to me as I was unsure of what exactly the you had to do in prayer. I have printed it out so I can refer to it.
    chat Quote

  18. #34
    Umar001's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Oldskool
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    5,638
    Threads
    198
    Rep Power
    128
    Rep Ratio
    44
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Any1 got the audio of someone performing this?

    Im an audio type of learner, I want to know that Im pronoucing the words right.
    Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    The path is long but I hope we meet,
    After the grave and the Day, in paradise in bliss upon a reclined seat.

    A traveler traveling - travelled from shirk to tawheed,
    If I'm remembered for anything - let it be the Mercy I seek.

    Your Bro. Abu Hurayra, al-Habeshi
    chat Quote

  19. Report bad ads?
  20. #35
    - Qatada -'s Avatar
    brightness_1
    Spread this Avatar!
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Location
    ...travelling to the hereafter..
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    11,346
    Threads
    798
    Rep Power
    157
    Rep Ratio
    55
    Likes Ratio
    5

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    format_quote Originally Posted by IsaAbdullah View Post
    Any1 got the audio of someone performing this?

    Im an audio type of learner, I want to know that Im pronoucing the words right.

    Asalamu 'alykum warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.


    insha'Allaah this audio might be of some help, i havn't heard it - but it may have what you're looking for insha'Allaah.


    Inner Dimensions of Istikharah - Part 01. [Abdul Bary Yahya]

    Inner Dimensions of Istikharah - Part 02. [Abdul Bary Yahya]

    source: http://www.audioislam.com/?whatsnew


    chat Quote

  21. #36
    Umar001's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Oldskool
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    5,638
    Threads
    198
    Rep Power
    128
    Rep Ratio
    44
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Bro Fi Sabililah, thanks, the talk is beneficial listenin to it now.

    jus wondering if u actually know where i can get someone reciting this.

    and with regards to the seven times, I have never read that before, have you read anything on it other than that hadeeth, any scholars say anything.

    Can I do it once?

    Boy this is scary.
    Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    The path is long but I hope we meet,
    After the grave and the Day, in paradise in bliss upon a reclined seat.

    A traveler traveling - travelled from shirk to tawheed,
    If I'm remembered for anything - let it be the Mercy I seek.

    Your Bro. Abu Hurayra, al-Habeshi
    chat Quote

  22. #37
    - Qatada -'s Avatar
    brightness_1
    Spread this Avatar!
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Location
    ...travelling to the hereafter..
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    11,346
    Threads
    798
    Rep Power
    157
    Rep Ratio
    55
    Likes Ratio
    5

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)




    I can't find any audio for it yet sorry.. but the following links may clarify matters more insha'Allaah:

    Question #11981: Istikhaarah prayer.

    Question #2217: How to pray istikhaarah.


    chat Quote

  23. #38
    Annie's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    95
    Threads
    15
    Rep Power
    109
    Rep Ratio
    14
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Salams brother
    jazakallah for the article about istikharah, it is very benficial, i just want to knowif you can perform Istikharah after praying fajar namaz, or are they certain times you can pray it.
    :sister:
    chat Quote

  24. #39
    Malaikah's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Oldskool
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jul 2005
    Location
    Swimming with thermus aquaticus in Yellowstone National Park
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    6,351
    Threads
    101
    Rep Power
    133
    Rep Ratio
    44
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)



    you can pray it when ever you want, it doesnt have to be at any certain time.

    Question :


    Assalam alaikum. How do I pray salat al istikhara, at what times , and are there special dua that I can read for different cicumstances?

    Answer :

    Praise be to Allaah.

    The description of Salaat al-Istikhaarah was reported by Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah al-Salami (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said:

    “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to teach his companions to make istikhaarah in all things, just as he used to teach them soorahs from the Qur’aan. He said: ‘If any one of you is concerned about a decision he has to make, then let him pray two rak’ahs of non-obligatory prayer, then say: Allaahumma inni astakheeruka bi ‘ilmika wa astaqdiruka bi qudratika wa as’aluka min fadlika, fa innaka taqdiru wa laa aqdir, wa ta’lamu wa laa a’lam, wa anta ‘allaam al-ghuyoob. Allaahumma fa in kunta ta’lamu haadha’l-amra (then the matter should be mentioned by name) khayran li fi ‘aajil amri wa aajilihi (or: fi deeni wa ma’aashi wa ‘aaqibati amri) faqdurhu li wa yassirhu li thumma baarik li fihi. Allaahumma wa in kunta ta’lamu annahu sharrun li fi deeni wa ma’aashi wa ‘aaqibati amri (or: fi ‘aajili amri wa aajilihi) fasrifni ‘anhu [wasrafhu ‘anni] waqdur li al-khayr haythu kaana thumma radini bihi (O Allaah, I seek Your guidance [in making a choice] by virtue of Your knowledge, and I seek ability by virtue of Your power, and I ask You of Your great bounty. You have power, I have none. And You know, I know not. You are the Knower of hidden things. O Allaah, if in Your knowledge, this matter (then it should be mentioned by name) is good for me both in this world and in the Hereafter (or: in my religion, my livelihood and my affairs), then ordain it for me, make it easy for me, and bless it for me. And if in Your knowledge it is bad for me and for my religion, my livelihood and my affairs (or: for me both in this world and the next), then turn me away from it, [and turn it away from me], and ordain for me the good wherever it may be and make me pleased with it.”

    (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 6841; similar reports are also recorded by al-Tirmidhi, al-Nisaa’i, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah and Ahmad).

    Ibn Hijr (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, commenting on this hadeeth:

    “Istikhaarah is a word which means asking Allaah to help one make a choice, meaning choosing the best of two things where one needs to choose one of them.

    Concerning the phrase ‘The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to teach us to make istikhaarah in all things,’ Ibn Abi Jamrah said: ‘It is a general phrase which refers to something specific. With regard to matters that are waajib (obligatory) or mustahabb (liked or encouraged), there is no need for istikhaarah to decide whether to do them, and with regard to matters that are haraam (forbidden) or makrooh (disliked), there is no need for istikhaarah to decide whether to avoid them. The issue of istikhaarah is confined to matters that are mubaah (allowed), or in mustahabb matters when there is a decision to be made as to which one should be given priority.’ I say: it refers to both great and small matters, and probably an insignificant issue could form the groundwork for a big issue.

    The phrase ‘If any one of you is concerned…’ appears in the version narrated by Ibn Mas’ood as: ‘if any one of you wants to do something…’

    ‘Let him pray two rak’ahs of non-obligatory prayer.’ This is mentioned to make it clear that it does not mean fajr prayer, for example. Al-Nawawi said in al-Adhkaar: He can pray istikaarah after two rak’ahs of regular sunnah prayer done at zuhr for example, or after two rak’ahs of any naafil prayers whether they are regularly performed or not… It seems to be the case that if he made the intention to pray istikhaarah at the same time as intending to pray that particular prayer, this is fine, but not if he did not have this intention.

    Ibn Abi Jamrah said: The wisdom behind putting the salaat before the du’aa’ is that istikhaarah is intended to combine the goodness of this world with the goodness of the next. A person needs to knock at the door of the King (Allaah), and there is nothing more effective for this than prayer, because it contains glorification and praise of Allaah, and expresses one's need for Him at all times.

    The phrase ‘then let him say’ would seem to imply that the du’aa’ should be said after finishing the prayer, and the word thumma (then) probably means after reciting all the words of the salaat and before saying salaam.

    The phrase ‘O Allaah, I seek Your guidance by virtue of Your knowledge’ is explaining ‘because You know best.’ Similarly, ‘by virtue of Your power’ most likely means ‘seeking Your help.’ ‘I seek ability’ (astaqdiruka) means ‘I ask You to give me the power or ability (qudrah) to do’ whatever is being asked for, or it probably means ‘I ask You to decree (tuqaddir) this for me.’ So it may mean making it easy.

    ‘I ask You of Your great bounty’ refers to the fact that Allaah gives out of His great generosity, but no one has the right to His blessings. This is the opinion of Ahl al-Sunnah.

    ‘You have power, I have none. And You know, I know not’ refers to the fact that power and knowledge belong to Allaah alone, and the slave has no share of them except what Allaah decrees for him.

    ‘O Allaah, if in Your knowledge this matter…’ According to one report, he should mention it by name. It is apparent from the context that he should state it, but it is probably sufficient to be thinking of the matter whilst making this du’aa’.

    ‘Then ordain it for me’ means ‘make it happen for me’ or it may mean ‘make it easy for me.’

    ‘Then turn it away from me, and turn me away from it’ means ‘so that my heart will no longer feel attached to it after it has been turned away.’

    ‘Make me pleased with it’ means ‘make me content with it, so that I will never regret asking for it or be sorry that it happened, because I do not know how it will turn out, even if at the time of asking I am pleased with it.’

    The secret is that one’s heart should not be attached to the matter in question, because that will result in a person becoming restless. Being pleased with something means that one’s heart is content with the decree of Allaah.

    (Summarized from the commentary of al-Haafiz Ibn Hijr (may Allaah have mercy on him) on the hadeeth in Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Kitaab al-Da’waat and Kitaab al-Tawheed.).



    Islam Q&A
    Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com
    Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    wwwislamicboardcom - Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)
    chat Quote

  25. Report bad ads?
  26. #40
    Annie's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    95
    Threads
    15
    Rep Power
    109
    Rep Ratio
    14
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)

    Salams
    jazakallh for sharing your knowledge about istikhara, it is very beneficial
    wasalm Annie
    chat Quote


  27. Hide
Page 2 of 6 First 1 2 3 4 ... Last
Hey there! Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.) Looks like you're enjoying the discussion, but you're not signed up for an account.

When you create an account, we remember exactly what you've read, so you always come right back where you left off. You also get notifications, here and via email, whenever new posts are made. And you can like posts and share your thoughts. Istikharah Prayer - (asking Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala for guidance.)
Sign Up

Similar Threads

  1. prayer section for requesting help for help and guidance
    By Marina-Aisha in forum Feedback & Suggestions
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 11-05-2011, 06:28 PM
  2. how do you know ur istikharah prayer has been ansered?
    By cat eyes in forum Advice & Support
    Replies: 5
    Last Post: 08-17-2009, 10:57 AM
  3. Replies: 0
    Last Post: 08-02-2008, 11:17 PM
  4. Replies: 0
    Last Post: 04-10-2006, 12:22 PM
  5. Replies: 0
    Last Post: 11-10-2005, 10:03 PM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •  
create