The true meaning of ‘Istikhara’

Are you confused between the two options and thinking about reaching out to Istikhara?

Here are some interesting facts about Istikhara that you need to know before you decide to go for it.

Istikhara literally means ‘seeking good’

This world is a confusing place. We often face dilemmas and or at a crossroads between the two options. Believers then turn to Istikhara to demand divine intervention.

When reciting Istikhara dua, you ask Allah’s best possible outcome

It is a great responsibility to look at Istikhara. If you accept the result Allah has chosen for you and are willing to believe in him even if the result seems incorrect at the time, then it is advisable to turn to Istikhara.

You must practice Tawakkal after Istikhara

Be grateful for what Allah chose for you and know that Allah knows what you do not know.

You will not receive the answer in a dream/vision/sign for sure

Most people have the impression that they or Allah send answers with a dream or vision or sign. This is not always true.

Allah may bring your mind devotion to the right path

Sometimes the answer to Istikhara is a sudden change of heart or a leaning towards one of the two options.

Istikhara is not just for marriage

Many people get the impression that Istikhara can only be done for marriage proposals. That is not true. Believers can rely on Istikhara for everyday decisions regarding employment, career choices, property decisions, purchase decisions and more.

It is stated in the Holy Quran:

كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ ٱلْقِتَالُ وَهُوَ كُرْهٌ لَّكُمْ ۖ وَعَسَىٰٓ أَن تَكْرَهُوا۟ شَيْـًٔا وَهُوَ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ ۖ وَعَسَىٰٓ أَن تُحِبُّوا۟ شَيْـًٔا وَهُوَ شَرٌّ لَّكُمْ ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ

Meaning: Even if you hate it, fighting is obligatory for believers. Maybe you hate what’s good for you and like what’s bad for you. Allah knows, but you don’t. Surah Baqarah 2:216

ARR