People often overlook the profound significance of the simple yet powerful dua (supplication) known as Istighfar — saying “Astaghfirullah” (I seek forgiveness of Allah). It is the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to seek forgiveness from Allah at least 100 times daily. If Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the one who is guaranteed Paradise, humbles himself in seeking forgiveness a hundred times a day, how much more do we need to seek Allah’s mercy?
Let us reflect on the countless benefits and virtues of reciting this beautiful supplication, Insha’Allah.
Benefits of Reciting Istighfar (Astaghfirullah):
- Istighfar is a gateway to relief and happiness. Whenever you feel distressed or anxious, start reciting it, and Insha’Allah, it will calm your heart and bring peace.
- It removes anxiety, and your duas are answered. Allah promises relief to those who seek His forgiveness.
- It opens the doors of sustenance. Regular recitation of Istighfar brings abundant provisions.
- It opens the doors of mercy. Seeking forgiveness draws down Allah’s mercy.
- It opens the doors of knowledge. When we ask Allah for forgiveness, He grants us wisdom.
- Istighfar is a pathway to productivity. It clears the mind, allowing us to focus on our duties.
- It provides emotional relief. When sadness or frustration overwhelms you, saying “Astaghfirullah” repeatedly lifts your spirit.
- It helps alleviate depression. The act of seeking forgiveness from Allah soothes the soul and calms our worries.
- Istighfar helps prevent sins. Reminding ourselves to seek forgiveness often strengthens our resolve to avoid wrongdoing.
Authentic Hadith on the Virtues of Istighfar:
Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated:
“If anyone constantly seeks pardon (from Allah), Allah will appoint for him a way out of every distress and a relief from every anxiety, and will provide sustenance for him from where he expects not.”
(Abu Dawood)
Abdullah bin Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:
“The one who frequently repents and says Istighfar, Allah will open a path from poverty and difficulties. All sorrow and hardship will be replaced with prosperity and contentment. One will receive sustenance from unexpected sources.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
Rasulullah (ﷺ) said:
“The one who seeks forgiveness for Muslim men and women twenty five or twenty six times every day, Allah will count that person among those whose du’a (supplication) is accepted. Through this person’s blessings, those on earth will gain sustenance.”
(Ibn Majah)
The Power of Istighfar:
In just one minute, you can say “Astaghfirullah” more than 100 times! The benefits of seeking forgiveness are numerous: it grants forgiveness, opens the gates of Paradise, increases provisions, strengthens your resolve, repels harm, and even brings down rain. It is a reason for increased wealth and children.
The Doors of Repentance Are Always Open:
The gates of repentance remain open, so don’t delay your repentance by waiting for tomorrow, for tomorrow is uncertain. Repent today and make it a habit to seek forgiveness by reciting “Astaghfirullah.”
Say with sincerity: “I believe in Allah’s mercy. I have sinned, I have gone astray, I have been negligent, but still I believe in Allah’s boundless mercy and forgiveness. I will not despair!”
The Importance of Istighfar in the Quran:
Allah, in His infinite mercy, has made Al-Ghaffaar (الْغَفَّارُ) — The Great Forgiver, one of His Names. There are numerous verses in the Quran emphasizing the importance of seeking forgiveness from Allah:
Surah Hud (11:3):
“And (commanding you): ‘Seek the forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him in repentance, that He may grant you good enjoyment for a term appointed, and bestow His abounding Grace to every owner of grace.’”
Surah Al-Hijr (15:49):
“Declare (O Muhammad SAW) unto My slaves, that truly, I am the Oft-Forgiving, the Most-Merciful.”
Surah An-Nahl (16:119):
“Then verily, your Lord is Most Forgiving to those who repent, believe, and do righteous deeds.”
Surah Al-Isra (17:25):
“Your Lord knows best what is in your inner-selves. If you are righteous, then, verily, He is Ever Most Forgiving to those who turn unto Him in obedience and repentance.”
Surah Ta-Ha (20:82):
“And verily, I am indeed Forgiving to him who repents, believes (in My Oneness), does righteous deeds, and then remains constant in doing them.”
Surah Al-Mumenoon (23:118):
“And say (O Muhammad SAW): ‘My Lord! Forgive and have mercy, for You are the Best of those who show mercy.’”
There are numerous verses in the Quran that reinforce the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness. Allah’s mercy is vast, and through His forgiveness, He leads us to the path of righteousness and peace.
So, did you say “Astaghfirullah” 100 times today?
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