How to Pray Istikhara Properly | Dr. Omar Suleiman

In this enlightening lecture, Dr. Omar Suleiman explains the true meaning and process of Salat al-Istikhara, the prayer for guidance that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught his companions with the same care as he taught the Qur’an. 🌿 The Story and Importance Jabir ibn Abdillah (RA), who carried great responsibility after losing his father in Uhud, narrated this hadith. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized Istikhara as a vital part of daily life—precise, authentic, and never to be altered. ✨ What Istikhara Is (and Isn’t): ❌ Not about dreams or mystical colors. ❌ Not a shortcut that skips effort and consultation. ✅ It’s a dua of surrender: after studying, researching, and consulting, you hand the matter over to Allah. 🕌 The Process: Think rationally and analyze your options. Consult righteous and knowledgeable people. Pray two non-obligatory rak‘ahs (can be Sunnah prayers). After salam, recite the exact dua taught by the Prophet ﷺ. 💡 The Dua’s Spirit: Recognize Allah’s power, knowledge, and bounty. Ask Allah to ordain, ease, and bless if good. Ask Him to turn it away and bring better if harmful. End with contentment in His choice. 📌 Wisdom from the Scholars: Ibn Taymiyyah: No one regrets combining consultation (with people) and Istikhara (with Allah). Qatada: Whoever combines the two will not miss the right decision. Early scholars: Gratitude brings increase. Repentance brings acceptance. Istikhara brings goodness. Consultation brings correctness. 💭 How Often? No limit—pray whenever you face decisions. Don’t wait for signs—use reason, advice, and trust in Allah. If doors close, say alhamdulillah and await what Allah opens. ➡️ Conclusion: Istikhara is not about shortcuts or magic—it’s about surrender. Do your part, then leave the decision and outcome in Allah’s Hands, trusting His wisdom and mercy. #OmarSuleiman #Istikhara #IslamicReminder #Guidance #Prayer #Dua #TrustInAllah #QuranAndSunnah #Islam