When uncertain about a permissible decision, Muslims should turn to Allah through prayer, Istikhara, consultation and careful consideration. Islam does not require a person to wait for a mysterious sign.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمِكَ، وَأَسْتَقْدِرُكَ بِقُدْرَتِكَ
Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi 'ilmika, wa astaqdiruka bi qudratika.
O Allah, I seek the best from You by Your knowledge, and I seek ability from You by Your power.
Hadith — Sahih al-Bukhari — Hadith of Istikhara
Authenticity: Sahih
Meaning and Explanation
The supplication asks Allah to choose what is best based on His perfect knowledge and power.
When to Recite
Use Istikhara when facing an important permissible decision.
How to Recite
Pray Istikhara according to the Sunnah and then take reasonable steps toward the decision without requiring a dream or special sign.
Important Notes
There is no authentic Islamic dua that guarantees a visible sign after making dua. Istikhara does not require a dream.
Benefits
It teaches reliance upon Allah rather than seeking omens or guaranteed supernatural signs.
Additional Duas
اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي وَسَدِّدْنِي
Allahumma-hdini wa saddidni
O Allah, guide me and direct me to the right path.
اهْدِنَا الصِّرَاطَ الْمُسْتَقِيمَ
Ihdinas-siratal-mustaqim
Guide us to the Straight Path.
Content type: Hadith
Tags:
sign dua
istikhara
guidance dua
decision prayer
Islamic guidance