[Q 263] Timing and Purpose of Istikhara

Question

Is istikhara to be done before making a choice between two options, or is it meant to be done after making a choice and then seeking signs thereafter?

Could you also provide guidance on how to perform istikhara?

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

الجواب بعون الملك الوهاب اللهم هداية الحق والصواب

Answer

Istikhara is performed when a person cannot decide between two or more permissible options and wishes to know what will be better for them. Therefore, it is appropriate to perform Istikhara before making a decision.

However, if a decision has already been made but it is unclear whether the outcome will be favorable, Istikhara can also be performed for this purpose.

Istikhara is a good practice, which is encouraged in hadiths. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

”مَا خَابَ مَنِ ا سْتَخَارَ ، وَلَا نَدِمَ مَنِ اسْتَشَارَ، وَلَا عَالَ مَنِ اقْتَصَدَ“

(Majma Al-Zawaid, Volume 02, Page 566, Hadith No. 3670)

Answered by: Mubashir Attari (AskMufti Scholar)

Verified by: Mufti Sajid Attari

Date: 29th April 2024