Du'a (Personal Supplication)
Personal address and supplication to Allah for help and guidance.
Du'a (Arabic: دعاء) is personal supplication or address to Allah, where the believer asks for help, guidance, forgiveness or other wishes. Unlike salah, which has fixed forms and times, du'a can be made at any time, in any place and in any language.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Du'a is the essence of worship" and "Nothing is more honored by Allah than du'a." There are specific times when du'a is particularly favored: the last third of the night, between adhan and iqamah, during sajdah in the prayer, and on Friday.
The etiquette of du'a includes beginning with praise of Allah and blessings on the Prophet, praying with sincerity and humility, raising the hands, and having trust that Allah will answer the supplication. Allah answers all supplications — either with what was requested, with something better, or by averting something harmful.
Related terms
Sawm (Fasting)
Islamic fasting from dawn to sunset, closely connected with prayer.
Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast)
The Islamic holiday that marks the end of Ramadan's fasting.
Marja' al-Taqlid (Religious Authority)
The highest religious authority in Shia Islam, whom the believer follows in prayer and legal matters.
Sujud al-Tilawah (Prostration of Recitation)
A prostration performed when reciting or hearing specific Quranic verses.
Al-Kafi (The Sufficient)
The most important Shia hadith collection, with extensive chapters on prayer.
Sujud al-Shukr (Prostration of Gratitude)
A prostration to Allah in gratitude, recommended after prayer and upon receiving blessings.