Introduction: When the Heart is Conflicted, Prostration Shows the Way
We all face moments in life when it becomes difficult to distinguish between right and wrong. Five Pillars Of Islam, Whether it’s a decision about marriage, a career change, or uncertainty about a relationship—the heart is restless, the mind is confused. At such times, Islam tells us not just to think, but to bow down.
Prayer (Salah) and Istikhara—these are not just acts of worship, but a means of seeking direct guidance from Allah.
In this article, we will understand:
- The importance of Salah among the Five Pillars of Islam
- What Istikhara is and why it is performed
- How to perform Istikhara correctly
- Common misconceptions and the truth
- And most importantly—what to do after Istikhara
Why is Salah’s place among the Five Pillars of Islam so special?
The Five Pillars of Islam are:
- Shahada – The declaration of faith
- Salah – Daily prayer
- Zakat – Purification of wealth
- Fasting – Patience and piety
- Hajj – Complete submission
Salah: A daily meeting with Allah
Salah is not just a ritual. It is the time when a person stands before Allah, away from the noises of the world.
According to Hadith:
On the Day of Judgment, the first thing that will be accounted for is prayer.
This means that if the prayer is correct, then there is hope for the rest of the deeds as well.
The deep connection between Salah and Istikhara
Many people ask—
“Can Istikhara be performed without prayer?”
The answer is clear: No.
The foundation of Istikhara is prayer. It is a supplication performed after two rak’ahs of voluntary prayer.
What is Istikhara? (What is Istikhara in Islam)
Istikhara means:
Seeking guidance from Allah to choose what is best.
It is performed when:
- There are two or more options.
- The heart is undecided between them.
- The person wants Allah to guide them to the better path.
In which matters should one perform Istikhara?
- Marriage or relationship
- Job or business
- Traveling abroad
- Major investment
- Continuing or ending a relationship
How To Pray Istikhara – The Correct and Easy Way
Step-by-Step Istikhara Method
1️⃣ Make your intention
Have a clear intention in your heart that you seek guidance from Allah.
2️⃣ Pray two rak’ahs of Nafl prayer
In addition to the obligatory prayers
At any time (except during disliked times)
3️⃣ Recite the Istikhara supplication after the prayer
Istikhara supplication (brief meaning):
“O Allah! If this matter is better for my religion, my worldly life, and my Hereafter, then make it easy for me. And if it is bad, then keep me away from it.”
(Reciting the complete Arabic supplication is preferable)
4️⃣ Leave the matter to Allah
This is where people make the most mistakes.
What happens after Istikhara? (The biggest misconception)
❌ It is not necessary that:
- You have a dream
- You hear a voice
- You see a color
What are the real signs?
- The heart inclining towards one option
- The paths becoming easier or more difficult
- Circumstances changing on their own
This is Allah’s guidance.
Common Misconceptions about Istikhara
- ❌ Only religious scholars can perform Istikhara
- ❌ The result must come within three days
- ❌ If there is no dream, the Istikhara is unsuccessful
The Truth:
Every believer can perform Istikhara themselves, as many times as needed.
Expert Tips: How to Make Istikhara Effective
- Don’t be stubborn in your heart
- Choose a halal (permissible) path
- Perform it with prayer and piety
- Be patient
- Don’t run away from the decision after the supplication
FAQs: What do people often ask?
Q1. Can someone else perform Istikhara for me?
Yes, but performing it yourself is better.
Q2. How many times can Istikhara be performed?
Until your heart is satisfied.
Q3. Can women perform Istikhara?
Absolutely, there is no restriction on this.
Q4. Should Istikhara be performed for every small decision?
Not necessary, it’s better for big and important matters.
Q5. Is Istikhara obligatory?
No, it is a Sunnah (recommended practice).
Q6. Can Istikhara be performed for sinful acts?
No, what is forbidden is already forbidden.
Conclusion: When a person humbles themselves, the path becomes clear
Five Pillars Of Islam Salah How To Pray Istikhara is not just a religious topic, but an understanding of how to live life.
Prayer connects us to Allah, and Istikhara guides us in the right direction.
If you truly want your decisions to bring you peace—include Allah.
Sometimes the answer is not in words, but in the paths you take.
