What Is the Best Dua Before Prayer? Authentic Istiftah Supplications
The opening supplication, or Dua al-Istiftah, is a Sunnah recited after Takbirat al-Ihram and before Al-Fatihah, with several authentic forms reported from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Many Muslims ask about the best dua before prayer and what should be recited after saying Takbirat al-Ihram and before beginning Surah Al-Fatihah. This supplication is known as Dua al-Istiftah, or the opening supplication. It is a recommended Sunnah reported from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and several authentic forms have been narrated. A Muslim does not have to use only one form every time. Different authentic supplications may be used.
What Is the Best Dua Before Prayer?
One of the well-known authentic forms of the opening supplication is: “O Allah, distance me from my sins as You have distanced the East from the West. O Allah, cleanse me of my sins as a white garment is cleansed of impurities. O Allah, wash away my sins with water, snow, and hail.” This is a profound supplication asking Allah for forgiveness and purification from sins.
Another Istiftah Dua: Subhanaka Allahumma Wa Bihamdik
Another established form is: “Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You. Blessed is Your Name, exalted is Your Majesty, and there is no deity worthy of worship except You.” This supplication combines glorification, praise and affirmation of Allah's oneness.
The Dua of Turning to Allah: Wajjahtu Wajhiya
Another authentic opening supplication begins: “Indeed, I have turned my face toward the One who created the heavens and the earth, inclining toward truth, and I am not among those who associate partners with Allah...” This supplication emphasizes sincerity, devotion and turning one's worship exclusively toward Allah.
When Is the Istiftah Dua Recited?
The opening supplication is recited after Takbirat al-Ihram and before reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.
1. Takbirat al-Ihram
The worshipper says “Allahu Akbar” to begin the prayer.
2. Opening Supplication
The worshipper recites one of the authentic forms of Dua al-Istiftah.
3. Seeking Refuge in Allah
The worshipper seeks refuge in Allah from Satan before reciting the Quran.
4. Reciting Al-Fatihah
The worshipper then begins reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.
Is Dua al-Istiftah Obligatory?
Dua al-Istiftah is a recommended Sunnah, not an obligation. Therefore, leaving it out does not invalidate the prayer. It is nevertheless recommended to observe this Sunnah and learn the authentic forms reported from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Should the Opening Dua Be Recited Silently?
The Sunnah is to recite the opening supplication quietly, whether the prayer itself is recited aloud or silently. The intention for prayer is also in the heart and does not require being verbally announced aloud.
Can Different Istiftah Supplications Be Used?
Yes. Since several authentic forms have been reported from the Prophet ﷺ, a Muslim may alternate between them. This allows the worshipper to follow the various Sunnahs and reflect on the different meanings contained in these supplications.
Conclusion
Discover the best dua for protecting children from harm, including the authentic prophetic supplication used for Al-Hasan and Al-Husayn, along with important Quranic verses and daily adhkar.
Learn the best dua after prayer and the authentic adhkar reported from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, including seeking forgiveness, glorification and asking Allah for help.
Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta explains the ruling on fasting the Prophet’s Birthday and exchanging Mawlid sweets, as well as permissible ways to express joy on the occasion.
Learn about the places of Sajdah al-Tilawah in the Quran, how to recognize its verses, and the recommended supplications to say during prostration.
