Istikhara
استخارة
Pronunciation: is-ti-KHAH-rah
The prayer of seeking guidance — two voluntary rakahs and a Prophetic dua prayed before a major decision such as marriage.
Definition
Salat al-istikhara is the Sunnah prayer for seeking Allah's guidance in a permissible matter — most famously a marriage decision. The Prophet ﷺ taught it as two rakahs of voluntary prayer followed by a specific dua (Sahih al-Bukhari 1162) asking Allah to decree and facilitate the matter if it is good for one's religion, livelihood, and final outcome, and to divert it otherwise.
Istikhara follows — rather than replaces — due diligence and consultation, and contrary to widespread belief, no dream, sign, or feeling is required: the answer comes through how the matter unfolds. It may be repeated while the concern persists.
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Istikhara (استخارة) — The prayer of seeking guidance — two voluntary rakahs and a Prophetic dua prayed before a major decision such as marriage. Salat al-istikhara is the Sunnah prayer for seeking Allah's guidance in a permissible matter — most famously a marriage decision. The Prophet ﷺ taught it as two rakahs of voluntary prayer followed by a specific dua (Sahih al-Bukhari 1162) asking Allah to decree and facilitate the matter if it is good for one's religion, livelihood, and final outcome, and to divert it otherwise.
- The prayer of seeking guidance — two voluntary rakahs and a Prophetic dua prayed before a major decision such as marriage.
- Category: General
- Related: Nikah, Khitbah
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Last reviewed: 2026-06-01
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