Doing Istighfar – The Secret of Astaghfirullah

What is Istighfar?

Istighfar is a simple yet powerful practice in Islam. It means asking Allah Almighty for His forgiveness in a humble manner. “Astaghfar” comes from an Arabic root that means “to cover something with what cleanses and keeps it pure.” It’s like taking a spiritual shower to cleanse your soul and protect you from the temptations of this world and the hereafter. We can recite the tasbih of Astaghfirullah during dhikr to acknowledge Allah Almighty’s greatness and seek His mercy and forgiveness. Through Istighfar, we can work towards becoming a better person.

Difference between Istighfar and Astaghfirullah

Even though Istighfar and Astaghfirullah convey the same concept of seeking forgiveness in Islamic practice, there are some differences between the two terms.

Istighfar is a more general term that refers to seeking forgiveness from Allah Almighty for our sins or mistakes.

On the other hand, Astaghfirullah is a specific phrase used to seek Allah Almighty’s forgiveness. It directly translates to “I seek forgiveness from Allah Almighty.”

Interestingly, even the Holy Prophet (PBUH), the most righteous person on earth, would practice Istighfar and ask for forgiveness from Allah (SWT) despite not committing any wrongdoing. This emphasizes the importance of humbling ourselves before Allah Almighty and seeking forgiveness, even for those considered to be the most pious.

In general, we should recite the full tasbih of Astaghfirullah, which is:

“Astaghfiru Allah Rabbi wa atubu ilayhi.”

Translation: Verily, I seek the forgiveness of Allah Almighty, my Rabb, and I turn to Him in repentance.

Benefits of Istighfar in the Quran

Did you know that saying “Astaghfirullah” can bring powerful benefits to your life? The Quran mentions several incredible advantages of Astaghfar that can improve your life.

“Al-Ghaffaar” is one of the 99 names of Allah Almighty, which means “The Great Forgiver“. Allah Almighty repeatedly forgives the sins of His followers. The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT) through various verses.

Keep reading to discover the concept of Tawbah and how Istighfar can change your life!

Forgiveness of Sins

Allah Almighty promises in the Quran that if we seek His forgiveness by sincerely doing Istighfar, He will forgive our sins. As He says in the Holy Quran:

“But I am truly Most Forgiving to whoever repents, believes, and does good, then persists on true guidance.” (Surah Taha 82)

Spiritual Cleansing

Astaghfirullah is a powerful tasbih that is known to cleanse the soul and purify it from any spiritual stains caused by sins. By seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT) through Istighfar, we are able to start afresh and strengthen our relationship with Allah Almighty. It is a way to renew our faith and seek the mercy of Allah Almighty.

Relief from Anxiety and Hardships

Istighfar, seeking forgiveness from Allah Almighty, can be a powerful tool for both spiritual cleansing and managing anxiety and hardships. By refocusing your mind on the present, trusting in Allah Almighty’s mercy, and gaining a new perspective on challenges, Istighfar can promote inner peace. It can also equip you with the resilience to navigate difficult times.

Allah Almighty has frequently mentioned the significance of regularly saying Astaghfirullah in the Quran, as He says:

Hadith about Istighfar – Astaghfirullah

Numerous hadiths emphasize the importance of Astaghfirullah tasbih and doing Istighfar. Here, we will explain a few Hadith.

Hazrat Abu Hurairah (RA) said:

I heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) saying, “I swear by Allah (SWT) that I seek Allah Almighty’s Pardon and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day.”

[Al-Bukhari] (Riyad as-Salihin: 1870)

Narrated by Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA):

The Prophet (SAW) said: If anyone continually asks pardon, Allah will appoint for him a way out of every distress and a relief from every anxiety, and will provide for him from where he did not reckon.

(Sunan Abi Dawud: 1518)

Hazrat Umar (RA) reported that:

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “Supplication is beneficial regarding things which have happened and things which have not happened, so devote yourselves to supplication, servants of Allah (SWT).”

(Musnad Aḥmad: 2234)

Dua-e-Istighfar

In Islam, the act of making Dua, or supplication, is considered to be one of the most powerful ways for a believer to seek guidance. It is also a means to seek forgiveness or support from Allah Almighty. Dua is the best method a Muslim can use when seeking Tawbah and Istighfar and repeatedly saying Astaghfirullah. The Holy Quran and the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) offer a variety of Duas that Muslims can use in their daily lives.

These Duas may differ in their wording, but they all share a common purpose: to help the believer connect with Allah Almighty and seek His blessings.

Hazrat Aishah (RA) reported:

Before his passing, the Messenger of Allah (SAW) frequently supplicated the following Dua.

By reciting these Duas, we can strengthen their faith, find relief in times of difficulty, and express their gratitude for the blessings they have received. If you want to learn more about the importance and benefits of Duas in your daily life. You can read our blog about important duas for daily life, where we share insights and tips on making the most of your prayers.

Syed-ul-Istighfar (Best Dua for Seeking Forgiveness)

One of the most effective supplications for seeking forgiveness is to say Syed-ul-Istighfar, which was recommended by Prophet Muhammad (PBUM). Hazrat Shaddad bin Aus (RA) narrates that, “O Messenger of Allah (SAW), teach me a supplication.” The Prophet (Sal Allahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) said,

It is also stated in Al-Bukhari that whoever makes this Sayyidul Astaghfar dua during the day with a firm belief in it and dies on the same day (before the evening) will be one of the residents (dwellers) of Jannah (Paradise). Similarly, whoever makes this Istighfar dua during the night with a firm belief in it and dies before the morning will also be one of the dwellers of Jannah (Paradise).

For more information, visit our blog, Jannah – The Reward for True Muslims.

Benefits of Syed ul Istighfar

Syed ul Istighfar is a powerful prayer (dua) in Islam that is highly significant to Muslims. We believe that reciting this prayer regularly can bring numerous benefits.

Here are some benefits of Syed ul Astaghfar:

• If someone regularly recites Sayyidul Istighfar once daily or after each prayer, Allah Almighty promises to forgive all their sins.
• Reciting it makes our hearts lean towards good deeds and find contentment in worshipping Allah (SWT).
• This practice brings peace to the heart and mind.
• When someone frequently recites Sayyidul Astighfar after genuinely repenting, it is considered a sign that Allah (SWT) has forgiven their sins.

How to do Istaghfar?

As Muslims, it is important to seek forgiveness through Istighfar to purify our hearts and souls from the sins we have committed. However, certain conditions must be met when asking for Istighfar. We must be sincere and honest in our repentance.

We must stop committing the same sins for which we seek forgiveness. Otherwise, Allah Almighty will not accept our Istighfar. While He is the Most Forgiving, He also wants us to improve ourselves.

In addition, we need to increase our good deeds, such as praying, giving charity, and being kind to others. These actions will help erase our bad deeds and bring us closer to Allah Almighty.

Astagfirullah Tasbih

After each daily prayer, it is recommended that Islam recite the Tasbih of Istighfar. The Tasbih of Astaghfirullah should be recited at least 100 times daily to seek forgiveness for sins and Allah Almighty’s mercy. Consistently seeking repentance and forgiveness through Tawbah and Astagfirullah can help individuals cleanse themselves of their wrongdoings.

Hazrat Al-Agharr Al-Muzani (RA) said:

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “Sometimes I perceive a veil over my heart, and I supplicate Allah for forgiveness a hundred times in a day.”

(Riyad as-Salihin 1869)

Benefits of Reciting Astaghfirullah 1000 Times

Reciting “Astaghfirullah” multiple times, such as 10 times, 100 times, or 1000 times, is a powerful form of dhikr that carries numerous spiritual benefits, including:

Protection from Calamities: Muslims believe that regularly seeking forgiveness through the repetition of “Astaghfirullah” can act as a shield against calamities, trials, and hardships.

Attaining Peace of Mind: The repetitive recitation of “Astaghfirullah” is often accompanied by a sense of tranquility and inner peace.

Drawing Closer to Allah (SWT): By actively seeking forgiveness through dhikr, individuals aim to draw closer to Allah Almighty and strengthen their relationship with Him.

Barakah (Divine Blessings): The repetition of “Astaghfirullah” is believed to attract Allah Almighty’s blessings (barakah) into one’s life.

Purification of the Heart: Repetitive recitation of “Astaghfirullah” cleanses the heart and soul from impurities, negative influences, and spiritual stains caused by sins.

Removal of Obstacles: Many Muslims believe that acts of worship, such as “Astaghfirullah,” remove obstacles and barriers that hinder prosperity and success.

Improved Decision-Making: Repentance and seeking forgiveness through “Astaghfirullah” increase mindfulness and spiritual clarity, improving decision-making abilities.

Conclusion

Practicing Istighfar and reciting the tasbih of Astaghfirullah are powerful spiritual acts that can enable us to seek forgiveness, purify our souls, and connect with Allah (SWT). By engaging in Istighfar regularly and sincerely, we can experience the benefits mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, including the forgiveness of sins and spiritual cleansing. Istighfar also brings relief from anxiety and hardships. Therefore, let’s incorporate Istighfar into our daily routine and seek forgiveness from Allah Almighty, the Great Forgiver, with humility and sincerity.