Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah (صلاة الاستخارة‎)

Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah (صلاة الاستخارة‎)

Definition

Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah (صلاة الاستخارة‎) refers to a special prayer in Islam, known as the “Prayer for Seeking Guidance,” that is performed by Muslims to seek Allah’s guidance in making decisions. The prayer consists of two rak‘ahs (units of Islamic prayer) followed by a specific supplication to Allah, asking for His guidance and divine assistance in making a good choice.

Etymology

The term Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah is derived from Arabic:

• Ṣalātu (صلاة‎): Prayer and refers to the formal Islamic prayer.
• Istikhārah (اِسْتِخَارَة‎): Derived from the root k̲h̲-y-r (خير) meaning “to seek that which is good,” “to seek guidance.”

The combined phrase essentially means “the prayer for seeking what is best.”

Arabic and Turkish Translations

• Arabic: صلاة الاستخارة‎ (Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah)
• Turkish: İstihâre Duası

Practice and Method

The method of Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah was taught by the Prophet Muhammad and is detailed in hadith literature. Here is the procedure:

1. Performing Two Rak‘ahs:

   • Begin by performing ablution (wudu).
   • Intend to pray two units (rak‘ahs) of non-obligatory prayer with the intention of seeking guidance from Allah.

2. The Istikhārah Du’a (Supplication):

   • After completing the two rak‘ahs, recite the following supplication (this is the translation of the Arabic text):

     <p>&ldquo;O Allah, I seek Your help in Your great wisdom. I pray for the ability to act through Your power. I ask for Your goodness. You know, but I do not know. You are powerful, but I am not. You are the knower of secrets. O Allah, if You know that the matter which I am about to undertake is good for my religion, my life, and my future, then make it easy for me and bless me in it. But if it is bad for my religion, my life, and my future, then turn it away from me, and guide me to what is good wherever it may be.&rdquo;</p>

3. Consistency:

   • After performing Istikhārah, one should carry out what one deems best, trusting that Allah will provide what is good, even if it may not be immediately apparent. This process may be repeated if more clarity is needed.

Takeaways and Conclusion

• Spiritual Guidance: Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah provides Muslims a spiritual means to seek Allah’s help in making significant decisions.
• Prophetic Tradition: This practice was established by the Prophet Muhammad, making it a Sunnah (tradition) highly regarded in Islamic practice.
• Holistic Approach: It encourages a holistic approach to decision-making, encompassing spiritual, religious, and worldly benefits.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

• “Fortress of the Muslim” by Sa’ad Ibn Wahf Al-Qahtani: Contains supplications including Istikhārah.
• “Riyad As-Salihin” by Imam Nawawi: Collection of hadith detailing various prayers and supplications, including Istikhārah.
• “Al-Adab al-Mufrad” by Imam Al-Bukhari: A book on ethics and manners containing teachings on prayers.

By understanding and practicing Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah, Muslims are not only seeking divine guidance but also affirming their reliance on Allah in all aspects of life.

Conclusion

Ṣalātu l-Istikhārah is a revered practice in Islam providing a means for Muslims to seek Allah’s guidance in making decisions. It is integral to Islamic spiritual life, exemplifying a deep trust and reliance on divine wisdom and support.