Istikhara Dua – How To Pray Istikhara

Faraz Khan

“Istikhara” means seeking goodness or guidance from Allah (the Most High) when making an important decision. It is a Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

When a person is unsure about a decision—whether it’s marriage, a job, travel, or any important matter—they perform Istikhara prayer to ask Allah:

“O Knower of the unseen, if this decision is good for me, guide me to it. If not, turn it away from me.”

As narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari (Book 2, Hadith 263):

“The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us the way of doing Istikhara in all matters, as he taught us the Surahs of the Qur’an.”

How to Pray Istikhara with Dua

  1. Pray two Rak’ahs (units) of voluntary (nafl) prayer:
    • In the first Rak’ah, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite Surah Al-Kafirun (Chapter 109).
    • In the second Rak’ah, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112).
  2. After completing the prayer, recite the following Istikhara Dua:

It is also recommended to:

  • Say Salawat (Durood) before and after the Dua.
  • Sleep with Wudu (ablution) if possible (though it’s not obligatory for those who cannot maintain it due to health).
  • Face the Qiblah while making Dua, if convenient (this is Sunnah, not obligatory).

How Often to Perform Istikhara?

  • Sometimes a feeling of clarity, comfort, or even a dream may come after one night.
  • Other times, you may repeat Istikhara for up to 7 nights if you are still unsure.

Signs of Istikhara

  • Dreams are not necessary, but some scholars say seeing white or green colors (e.g. white clothes, milk, greenery) may indicate something positive.
  • Seeing black or red may indicate otherwise.
  • If you do not see any dream, follow what your heart is most inclined towards after sincerely performing Istikhara.
  • Always trust Allah’s wisdom, even if things do not go as expected.

Final Thoughts

Istikhara is not meant to guarantee a specific outcome—it is about asking Allah for guidance and being content with the result. If things go smoothly, it’s a sign of ease. If they become difficult or blocked, it may be Allah protecting you from harm.

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