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Istikhaarah Prayer

Question

What are the rulings for Istikhara? I did the Istikhara and still I have been asked to do it continuously. Tell me the steps to be followed and what time is suitable for it? What are the signs, etc.

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) is His slave and Messenger.

1) For rulings about the Istikhaarah Prayer, please refer to Fataawa 172573, 81434 and 82964.

2) In general, there is no specific time for the Istikhaarah Prayer, but it is better to perform it in the meritorious times, such as the third part of the night, since one comes closer to Allah and His Favor.

Moreover, there are no specific signs that help one choose the issue for which one is performing the Istikhaarah. But, if one is wholeheartedly inclined to do something and feels good, then he should do that action, since this is most probably a result of the Istikhaarah provided that such a choice should not be a desire that one has before performing the Istikhaarah.

Know that sincerity in seeking Allah's choice and help, means that one should completely leave his own knowledge, power and choice; i.e., one must leave the choice to Allah.

As for what one may dream after performing the Istikhaarah, one could pay attention to the vision, but not to rely upon it or to follow it completely.

However, for the one who seeks Allah's help and aid and consults Him, only good will be the result, Allah willing.

Allah knows best.

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