Duaa (supplication), or Dua is a common practice among Muslims as it shows not only full trust and faith in Allah (SWT) but also the precious connection one shares with Him. The Prophet said: “There is nothing more honorable with Allah [Most High] than supplication.” (narrated by Abu Hurairah). We can always turn to Allah in times of need, we can make dua for sadness and distress, and simply whenever we feel like opening up to our lord and creator.
However, at times, impatience gets the best of us and we start questioning our supplications and how they are still unanswered. How can I get my Duaa answered instantly? What Surah to read in order to do so? In this article, we will provide you with the answers to these questions.
How can I get my Duaa answered instantly?
The answer to this question is composed of two parts: the dos and the don’ts. First, we will start with the Islamic etiquette of making Duaa. Although not obligatory, Wudu (ablution) and facing Qiblah are recommended. Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) said: “Every thing has a master, and the master of religious circles is to face the Qibla.” (Al-Tabrani and other narrators).
Praising Allah (SWT) should come first in your Duaa. Then, be as direct and honest about what you need and want as possible. He is our creator and knows us better than we know ourselves. So, it is always best to be intimate with Him and trust Him. Allah (SWT) says: “Your Lord has proclaimed, “Call upon Me, I will respond to you.” Surah Ghafir 40:60.
When you are finished, praise and thank Allah once more and send peace and blessings to the Prophet (pbuh).
When it comes to the don’ts, we advise you to avoid the following:
- Committing sins with no to little repentance.
- Consuming non- Halal.
- Making Haram and unlawful money for a living.
- Having bad intentions.
- Having weak conviction and trust that Allah will accept the Duaa.
God Almighty says:
“[Allah said], “O messengers, eat from the good foods and work righteousness. Indeed, I, of what you do, am Knowing.” (Surah Al-Mu’minun 23:51).
Hence, it is more than necessary to avoid such practices or doings in order to get your Duaa accepted.
What Surah should I recite to get my Dua accepted?
The most agreed upon among Muslim scholars as the “Istijabah” (acceptance) Surah is Surah Al- Anbiya. It is the 21st Chapter of the Holy Quran and contains 112 verses. It is the only Surah in the Quran that has the term “istajabna” meaning “answered”. It is actually mentioned 4 times during various verses.
The first time is in verse 76. Allah (SWT) says:
“And ˹remember˺ when Noah had cried out to Us earlier, so We responded to him and delivered him and his family from the great distress.” This alludes to Prophet Noah (pbuh) praying to Allah when he had finally given up on his people and how Allah answered his prayer.
The second time is in verse 84. Allah (SWT) says:
“So We answered his prayer and removed his adversity, and gave him back his family, twice as many, as a mercy from Us and a lesson for the ˹devoted˺ worshippers.” This verse refers to Prophet Job’s distress (pbuh) and Allah (SWT) alleviating his suffering by answering his supplication.
The third time is in verse 88. Allah (SWT) says:
“So We answered his prayer and rescued him from anguish. And so do We save the ˹true˺ believers.” In this verse, Allah tells us about Prophet Jonah (pbuh) and how he would save us all as he saved him.
The fourth and last time is in verse 90. Allah (SWT) says:
“So We answered his prayer, granted him John, and made his wife fertile. Indeed, they used to race in doing good, and call upon Us with hope and fear, totally humbling themselves before Us.” This verse explains how Allah accepted Prophet Zechariah’s prayer and gave him John as a son.
From all these verses, it is clear to see that our Lord and Savior can answer all our prayers and grant us all types of wishes same as he did with His prophets as He says in verse 88: “And so do We save the ˹true˺ believers.”
Bear in Mind!
It is important to mention though that reciting Surah Al-Anbiya when making your Duaa does not equate with your wish coming true in a heartbeat as God can respond to your Duaa in three forms:
- Your prayer is answered right away.
- Your prayer will be answered but not right now (be patient).
- You will not be provided an answer (that does not mean it went unheard nonetheless but rather He has a better plan for you).
A true Muslim puts full trust and faith in our God Almighty. Sometimes, it is best to be patient and wait for what is to come as it may be better than expected. Allah knows best, always keep that in mind. Instead of losing hope and getting pessimistic, be optimistic and trust Allah’s plan for you. Allah (SWT) says:
“Perhaps you dislike something which is good for you and like something which is bad for you. Allah knows and you do not know.” (Surah Al- Baqarah 2:216).
Making Dua vs taking action
Some people tend to think that making Duaa only would fix all your problems in life. Indeed, Duaa is a powerful weapon against life’s struggles and fights. However, taking action is the second weapon in order to succeed in that mission. In fact, we are asked and encouraged to make efforts and strive for success in life. Allah (SWT) says:
“And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives” Surah An- Najm 53:39.
He also says:
“And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of Allah , and remember Allah often that you may succeed.” Surah Al-Jumu’ah 62:10.
The latter verse in particular shows that prayer or Duaa and taking action are rather complimentary than substitutes for one another.
To conclude, Duaa is a highly recommended practice as Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) said:
“The supplication, is worship.” (narrated by An-Nu’man bin Bashir). Therefore, it is advised to follow the Islamic etiquette previously mentioned along with reciting Surah Al-Anbiya to get your supplication answered. Always keep your heart trusting of Allah and devoid of doubts and pessimism for He is the wisest and knows what is best for us.
