How Many Rakats and How to Perform Istikhara Prayer: A Guide from Last Minute Turkey News
Istikhara: Seeking Guidance through Prayer
Istikhara is a spiritual practice where a person prays to Allah through a two-rakat prayer before going to bed, seeking guidance on whether a particular decision or action will be beneficial. Oftentimes, individuals are faced with important choices that they cannot determine what is best for them in this world or the hereafter. In such moments of uncertainty, they turn to God for help and seek his divine intervention. Istikhara, in essence, is about acknowledging that the outcome of our endeavors is ultimately in Allah’s hands and seeking his blessings and guidance.
The Prophet Muhammad taught his companions to perform istikhara in all matters of significance, emphasizing its importance as a means of seeking clarity and divine assistance. The recommended practice involves reciting Surah al-Kafirun after Fatiha in the first rakat, and Surah Al-Ikhlas in the second rakat, followed by the istikhara prayer. The supplication made during istikhara seeks Allah’s guidance and blessings, asking for clarity on whether a particular course of action will be beneficial in all aspects of life.
It is important to note that istikhara is not meant to be performed for matters that are clearly good or bad, such as acts of worship or sinful deeds. Rather, it is intended for situations where there is uncertainty about the right course of action. Istikhara can be repeated up to seven times, and after the prayer, individuals may experience a sense of clarity in their hearts, guiding them towards what is deemed as beneficial.
It is essential to understand that there is no basis for interpreting dreams as a result of istikhara, as the prayer is about seeking guidance directly from Allah. If for some reason, the istikhara prayer cannot be performed, simply reciting the prayer is considered sufficient.
In times of uncertainty and indecision, istikhara serves as a powerful tool for seeking divine guidance and blessings, trusting in Allah’s wisdom and mercy to lead us towards what is best for us in this life and the hereafter.
