Istighfaar, the act of seeking forgiveness from Allah, is a fundamental practice in Islam that carries numerous benefits. The Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provide profound insights into the significance of istighfaar. In this blog, we will explore eight benefits of istighfaar and discuss how to perform it as taught by the Prophet (peace be upon him).
1. Forgiveness and Mercy from Allah
The primary benefit of istighfaar is attaining Allah’s forgiveness and mercy. The Quran states:
“And seek forgiveness of your Lord and repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is Merciful and Affectionate.”
(Surah Hud, 11:90)
Istighfaar cleanses the soul and brings the believer closer to Allah, ensuring His mercy and pardon.
2. Removal of Distress and Calamities
Regularly seeking forgiveness alleviates hardships and removes calamities. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever makes istighfaar, Allah will appoint for him a way out of every difficulty, relief from every anxiety, and will provide for him from sources he could never imagine.”
(Ibn Majah)
3. Provision and Sustenance
Istighfaar is a means of increasing one’s provision and sustenance. Allah says in the Quran:
“Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Indeed, He is ever a Perpetual Forgiver. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in [continuing] showers and give you increase in wealth and children and provide for you gardens and provide for you rivers.”
(Surah Nuh, 71:10-12)
4. Entrance to Paradise
Those who frequently engage in istighfaar are promised entry into Paradise. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Good news for the one who finds in his record many instances of istighfaar.”
(Ibn Majah)
5. Peace of Mind and Heart
Istighfaar brings tranquility and peace to the heart. Constant remembrance of Allah through seeking His forgiveness calms the soul and provides spiritual contentment.
6. Protection from Punishment
Regular istighfaar protects one from the punishment of Allah. The Quran mentions:
“But Allah would not punish them while you, [O Muhammad], are among them, and Allah would not punish them while they seek forgiveness.”
(Surah Al-Anfal, 8:33)
7. Strength and Health
Istighfaar can also lead to physical and mental strength. Allah provides good health and well-being to those who consistently seek His forgiveness.
8. Blessings in This World and the Hereafter
Engaging in istighfaar brings blessings in both this world and the hereafter. Allah’s blessings encompass all aspects of a believer’s life, ensuring prosperity, happiness, and success.
How to Perform Istighfaar as Taught by the Prophet?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught various forms of istighfaar, which can be incorporated into daily routines:
⦁ Saying “Astaghfirullah”:
This simple phrase means “I seek forgiveness from Allah.”
⦁ Reciting Sayyidul Istighfaar:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended this particular supplication for seeking forgiveness:
“O Allah, You are my Lord. There is no deity except You. You created me, and I am Your servant, and I abide by Your covenant and promise as best I can. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I acknowledge Your favor upon me, and I acknowledge my sin, so forgive me, for verily none can forgive sin except You.”
(Bukhari)
⦁ Performing Istighfaar in Salah:
Seek forgiveness during prayers, especially in the final sitting before ending the Salah.
⦁ Engaging in Istighfaar after Salah:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) would say “Astaghfirullah” three times after concluding the prayer.
⦁ Night Prayers (Tahajjud):
Engaging in night prayers and seeking forgiveness is highly encouraged and brings immense blessings.
Istighfaar is a powerful act of worship that brings numerous benefits to a believer’s life. Regularly seeking Allah’s forgiveness can attain mercy, relief from distress, increased provision, and countless other blessings. Incorporate istighfaar into your daily routine, following the practices taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and experience the transformative power of this beautiful act of worship.
May Allah grant us the wisdom to seek His forgiveness sincerely and frequently. Ameen
