Salat al-Istisqa (Rain Prayer)

Salat al-Istisqa (Arabic: صلاة الاستسقاء) is a special prayer performed to ask Allah for rain in times of drought. The word "istisqa'" means "to ask for water" and is derived from the Arabic word for giving drink (saqy). This prayer reflects the Islamic belief that all natural phenomena — including rain — are under Allah's control.

In Shia fiqh, Salat al-Istisqa is a recommended (mustahab) prayer performed in congregation under open sky. It consists of two rak'ah (like the Eid prayer) with qunut in both rak'ah, where the supplicant earnestly asks for rain and forgiveness. The imam delivers a khutbah (sermon) after the prayer and encourages the community to istighfar (seek forgiveness), as sins are considered a cause for Allah's mercy being withheld.

The Quran directly connects istighfar with rain: "And [Nuh said:] 'Ask forgiveness from your Lord — indeed, He is Forgiving. He will send the sky upon you with rain in abundance'" (Surah Nuh 71:10-11). Imam Ali (peace be upon him) prayed for rain several times during his time as caliph, and his prayers are documented in Nahj al-Balagha.

It is recommended that the community prepares for Salat al-Istisqa with three days of fasting, that they give alms, that they repent of their sins, and that they appear with humility and outward signs of need. Imam al-Sadiq said: "When you pray for rain, go out with humility and submissiveness" (Wasail al-Shia, vol. 8). This prayer is a powerful expression of the community's dependence on Allah and the collective appeal to His mercy.