Istikhara dua is a supplication made by Muslims when seeking guidance from Allah SWT to make a decision in matters of importance. It is a way to seek Allah's guidance and wisdom before making a choice, especially when one is uncertain about the outcome or the right course of action.
The istikhara dua is a simple prayer that can be performed individually or in congregation. It involves two units of voluntary prayer followed by a specific supplication known as the istikhara dua. Here is the dua:
"Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi 'ilmika wa astaqdiruka bi qudratika wa as'aluka min fadlikal 'azimi. Fa innaka taqdiru wa la aqdir. Wa ta'lamu wa la a'lam. Wa anta 'allamul ghuyubi. Allahumma, in kunta ta'lamu anna hadhal amra khairun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa'aqibati amri (or 'ajili amri wa'ajilihi) fasrifni anhu waqdir li al-khaira haithu kana thumma ardhini bih."
Translation: "O Allah, I seek Your guidance by virtue of Your knowledge, and I seek ability by virtue of Your power, and I ask You of Your great bounty. You have power, I have none. And You know, I know not. You are the Knower of hidden things. O Allah, if in Your knowledge, this matter is good for my religion, my livelihood, and my affairs, or the immediate and delayed benefits of my affairs, then ordain it for me and make it easy for me, then bless me in it. And if in Your knowledge, this matter is bad for my religion, my livelihood, and my affairs, or the immediate and delayed benefits of my affairs, then turn it away from me and turn me away from it. And ordain for me the good wherever it may be and make me content with it."
After reciting the dua, it is recommended to have trust in Allah's wisdom and make the decision that seems best based on one's understanding and circumstances.
It is important to note that istikhara is not a means of predicting the future or receiving direct divine revelations. It is a way to seek Allah's guidance and make informed decisions based on His wisdom.
Seeking guidance from Allah through istikhara is a virtuous act and a way of showing reliance on Him. It is believed that Allah will guide and ease the path for those who sincerely seek His help. However, it is also important to remember that personal effort, research, and consultation can also play a role in decision-making.