Interpretation of Istikhaara

It is narrated in Sahih Bukhari from Hadhrat Jaabir (Radhiallaahu Anhu) that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, 'When you have a doubt regarding a certain matter (i.e. to accept a proposal or not, etc.) then perform two Rakaats of Nafl Salaat and recite the following Du'aa .'

We understand from this Hadith that the purpose of Istikhaara is to eliminate the doubt which one has regarding some matter. Therefore, Istikhaara should be made with a clear mind, and without being inclined to any side in that matter. Since the purpose of Istikhaara is only to eliminate the doubt and uncertainty which one has, it is not even necessary for one to see a dream or remember the dream if one had one. If upon awakening, one finds his/her heart inclined to one side of the matter for which he/she made Istikhaara, then one should act in accordance to the inclination of his/her heart. However, if one is still uncertain then one should continue making Istikhaara for 7 days. Insha Allah, the uncertainty which one has would be removed within this period, and one would (in most cases after receiving some indication in a dream) find his heart inclined to a certain side in that matter. If one is still uncertain after 7 days, which is possible, then one should resort to Istishaarah (seeking advice from a learned person, etc.)

In your case, since you felt good for the rest of that day and remember have a good dream, it shows that your heart is inclined to the positive side of the matter for which you made Istikhaara. You should, therefore, make Du'aa unto Allah Ta'ala to be guided, put your trust in him and go ahead in accordance to the inclination of your heart.

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.