Is there a specific dua before prayer that was taught by the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him? And what is the difference between supplication before prayer and Dua al-Istiftah recited at the beginning of the prayer?

These are common questions among Muslims who wish to follow the Sunnah and make the most of the times when supplications are encouraged.

Is There a Specific Dua Before Prayer?

There is no established specific supplication that the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, prescribed to be recited before every obligatory prayer.

However, the period between the adhan and iqamah is an important time for making dua, and Muslims are encouraged to ask Allah for whatever is good in this life and the Hereafter.

A Muslim is encouraged to repeat the words of the adhan after the caller to prayer and then send blessings upon the Prophet before making personal supplications.

What Is Dua al-Istiftah?

Dua al-Istiftah, or the opening supplication, is recited at the beginning of the prayer after the opening takbir and before reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.

One well-known wording 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 but You.”

Other authentic forms of the opening supplication were also reported from the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him.

Some versions primarily contain praise and glorification of Allah, while others combine praise with supplication and declaration of devotion.

When Is Dua al-Istiftah Recited?

Dua al-Istiftah is recited after Takbirat al-Ihram and before Surah Al-Fatihah.

It may be recited in both obligatory and voluntary prayers.

The beginning of the prayer therefore generally proceeds with the opening takbir, followed by the opening supplication, and then the recitation of Al-Fatihah.

What Is the Ruling on Dua al-Istiftah?

The majority of scholars from the Hanafi, Shafi‘i and Hanbali schools consider Dua al-Istiftah a Sunnah of prayer rather than an obligation.

Therefore, reciting it follows the Prophetic practice, while leaving it does not invalidate the prayer.

The Maliki school has a different position and considers the opening supplication disliked, based on reports concerning how the Prophet and the early caliphs began the prayer.

Supplication Between the Adhan and Iqamah

The period between the adhan and iqamah is an excellent opportunity for supplication.

A Muslim may ask Allah for forgiveness, mercy, guidance, lawful provision, good health, family well-being and whatever is beneficial in this world and the Hereafter.

There is no requirement to use one particular wording for personal supplication during this period.

Is There a Dua Before the Eclipse Prayer?

The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, instructed Muslims to pray, make dua, remember Allah and give charity when a solar or lunar eclipse occurs.

He said:

“When you see them, call upon Allah and pray until it is over.”

This indicates the recommendation to increase supplication during an eclipse, but it does not establish one mandatory supplication that must be recited before the eclipse prayer.

Conclusion

There is no specific established dua before every prayer. However, supplication between the adhan and iqamah is encouraged, giving Muslims an opportunity to turn to Allah with whatever beneficial requests they have.

As for Dua al-Istiftah, it is considered a Sunnah by the majority of scholars and is recited after the opening takbir and before Al-Fatihah.

Following the established Sunnah allows prayer to become not only an act of worship, but also a moment of tranquility, remembrance and sincere connection with Allah.