The Prophet (ﷺ) used to teach us the Istikhara for each and every matter as he used to teach us the Suras from the Holy Qur'an. (He used to say), "If anyone of you intends to do something, he should offer a two-rak`at prayer other than the obligatory prayer, and then say: 'Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi'ilmika, wa astaqdiruka biqudratika, wa as'aluka min fadlika-l-'azim, fa innaka taqdiru wala aqdiru, wa ta'lamu wala a'lamu, wa anta'allamu-l-ghuyub. Allahumma in kunta ta'lamu anna hadha-lamra khairun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa 'aqibati `Amri (or said, fi 'ajili `Amri wa ajilihi) fa-qdurhu li, Wa in kunta ta'lamu anna ha-dha-l-amra sharrun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa 'aqibati `Amri (or said, fi ajili `Amri wa ajilihi) fasrifhu 'anni was-rifni 'anhu wa aqdur li alkhaira haithu kana, thumma Raddani bihi," Then he should mention his matter (need).
The Excellence of Istikhara
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) gave Istikhara the same importance as teaching Qur'anic chapters, indicating its fundamental role in a Muslim's life. This demonstrates that seeking divine guidance should be as natural to believers as reciting the Qur'an itself.
The Comprehensive Nature
The phrase "for each and every matter" shows Istikhara's applicability to all decisions - major or minor, spiritual or worldly. Nothing is too small or too great to seek Allah's guidance in.
The Methodological Framework
The two-rak'at voluntary prayer prepares the heart through remembrance of Allah, creating spiritual receptivity. This prayer isn't merely ritualistic but serves to align one's intention with divine will.
The Essence of the Supplication
"O Allah, I seek Your guidance through Your knowledge" acknowledges Allah's perfect knowledge versus our limited understanding. "I seek ability from Your power" recognizes that all capability originates from Allah alone.
The Divine Attributes Invoked
The supplication emphasizes Allah's attributes of Knowledge, Power, and Grace. By acknowledging "You know while I do not know," the believer demonstrates proper humility before the Knower of the unseen.
Comprehensive Benefit Request
The prayer seeks good in religion, livelihood, and ultimate outcome - covering both immediate and long-term consequences, spiritual and material aspects of life.
The Outcome of Submission
The concluding portion demonstrates complete trust in Allah's decree, asking for what is truly good wherever it may be found, and contentment with whatever outcome Allah chooses.