Istikhara
"Istikhara expresses seeking help from Allah to make a decision."
Spiritual & Deep Meaning
Istikhara is a form of prayer and worship performed in Islam to obtain the correct guidance from Allah during the decision-making process. When a person is on the verge of making an important decision, they turn to Istikhara, seeking comfort and clarity in their heart. In Sufi understandings, we expect to achieve inner enlightenment and knowledge while praying Istikhara. It is particularly common to resort to Istikhara in significant choices such as marriage, work, or other important decisions. Istikhara is not only a prayer but also a strategy that helps a person find inner peace and guides them in choosing the right path. Istikhara, which should be performed with reliance on Allah, is generally done after praying two rak'ahs of prayer. Many Islamic scholars have stated about the importance of this practice, 'Istikhara is an opening of a door.'
Example / Wisdom Quote
"In the Hadith of Istikhara, it is said, 'Istikhara is turning to Allah when making a decision.'"
Spiritual Dictionary
Continue expanding your spiritual vocabulary
Nafs al-Ammarah
Nafs al-Ammarah is the level of the self that represents the lowest and worst desires of a person.
Nafs al-LawwamaNafs al-Lawwama
Nafs al-Lawwama is the state of the self where the individual criticizes themselves and questions their mistakes.
nafs al-mutma'innaNafs al-Mutma'inna
Nafs al-Mutma'inna is the highest level of the self where a person finds peace with Allah and themselves.