Imam Ali Istikhara with the Quran
- Set your intention: Think about the matter for which you are seeking guidance and make your intention sincerely.
- Recite the Istikhara dua: Read the supplication attributed to Imam Ali below ↓
- Check the result: Follow the Quran counting method and find the first letter of the seventh line to see its interpretation.
Takes less than 2 minutes
How to Perform Imam Ali Istikhara with the Quran
A method of seeking guidance through the Quran is attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib. It begins with an intention, followed by reciting Surah Al-Fatihah, Surah Al-Ikhlas, and a special supplication before opening the Quran.
After reciting the supplication, open the Quran and count seven sheets. On the seventh sheet, count seven lines from the second side of the sheet.
The first letter of the seventh line is then used to determine the interpretation of the Istikhara.
Set Your Intention
Begin by identifying the matter for which you are seeking guidance and make your intention sincerely before starting.
Seek Guidance Through the Quran
This method uses the Quran as a means of seeking خير and guidance when making a decision.
The Result Is Based on a Letter
The first letter of the seventh line determines the result, with each Arabic letter having its own interpretation.
How to Perform Imam Ali Istikhara
1. Make Your Intention
Clearly identify the matter for which you are seeking guidance and make your intention before beginning.
2. Recite Al-Fatihah
Recite Surah Al-Fatihah three times with your intention in mind.
3. Recite Al-Ikhlas
Then recite Surah Al-Ikhlas three times.
4. Recite the Istikhara Dua
Recite the supplication attributed to Imam Ali with sincerity and trust in Allah.
5. Open the Quran
After reciting the dua, open the Holy Quran and count seven sheets.
6. Find the First Letter
On the seventh sheet, from its second side, count seven lines and look at the first letter of the seventh line.
Imam Ali Istikhara Dua
O Allah, I place my trust in You and seek guidance through Your Noble Book. Show me what is written in Your hidden secret and in Your concealed unseen knowledge, O Possessor of Majesty and Honor.
Imam Ali Istikhara Letter Interpretations
After performing the Istikhara, find the first letter of the seventh line and read the interpretation associated with that letter below.
ا — Alif
Goodness, happiness, joy, and success.
ب — Ba
You will see many benefits and will be safe from what you fear.
ت — Ta
You may be involved in a sinful matter and should turn away from it.
ث — Tha
You will receive goodness in this world and the Hereafter.
ج — Jim
You will find many benefits in what you have decided to undertake.
ح — Ha
You will receive lawful and wholesome provision from where you do not expect.
خ — Kha
Do not proceed, as the matter is not good.
د — Dal
You will attain what you seek and find happiness.
ذ — Dhal
You will overcome your enemies.
ر — Ra
You will gain victory over your people.
ز — Zay
You may face conflict and danger; give charity.
س — Sin
You will receive happiness and goodness.
ش — Shin
You should be cautious of your enemies.
ص — Sad
You may face a serious difficulty; give charity.
ض — Dad
You will be blessed with abundant wealth.
ط — Ta
You will find success in this world and the Hereafter.
ظ — Za
Something that was hidden in the matter will become clear.
ع — Ayn
You will receive help in your matter and achieve success.
غ — Ghayn
You may face a difficult matter; give charity.
ف — Fa
Allah will fulfill your need and bring reunion after separation.
ق — Qaf
You will be happy and well accepted among people.
ك — Kaf
You may face conflict; give charity.
ل — Lam
Your matter will become easier and you will overcome your enemies.
م — Mim
Be cautious, lest you fall into regret.
ن — Nun
You will gain status and acceptance.
و — Waw
You will receive wealth and will not need anyone.
هـ — Ha
Your matter may be delayed for a while, but its outcome will be good.
ي — Ya
You will receive good news and glad tidings.
What Should You Do After the Result?
Read the Interpretation Carefully
Once you identify the letter, read its interpretation carefully and consider its meaning in relation to the matter you had in mind.
Make Your Decision with Trust in Allah
Istikhara does not replace careful thought, examining the circumstances, or seeking advice. After considering the matter from different perspectives, place your trust in Allah and proceed.
Seek Advice If You Are Still Unsure
If you remain uncertain about the result or your decision, consider consulting knowledgeable and trustworthy people.
Recommended Times for Istikhara
A schedule attributed to Imam al-Sadiq gives the following times for performing Istikhara:
Saturday
From sunrise until Asr.
Sunday
From morning until noon, then from Asr until sunset.
Monday
From dawn until sunrise, then from noon until Asr.
Tuesday
From morning until noon, then from Asr until Isha.
Wednesday
From morning until Isha.
Thursday
From dawn until Isha.
Friday
The same times as Thursday.
And whoever relies upon Allah, He is sufficient for him.
— Quran 65:3