Date: 18 March 2025

Introduction

Istighfar, or seeking forgiveness from Allah, is a vital act of worship that cleanses the soul and brings immense rewards. As Ramadan progresses, it’s important to make istighfar a consistent part of your daily routine, seeking Allah’s mercy and striving for self-purification. On this eighteenth day of Ramadan, let’s reflect on the significance of istighfar and how to incorporate it into our lives.

1. The Meaning of Istighfar

Istighfar is derived from the Arabic root gh-f-r, meaning to cover or forgive. When we seek forgiveness, we ask Allah to conceal our sins, pardon us, and protect us from their consequences.

The Qur’an frequently emphasises the importance of seeking forgiveness:

“And seek forgiveness of your Lord and repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is Merciful and Affectionate.”
(Qur’an 11:90)

2. Benefits of Istighfar

A. Cleansing the Heart

• Istighfar purifies the heart by removing the burden of guilt and sin.
• It strengthens your connection with Allah and renews your commitment to righteousness.

B. Gaining Allah’s Mercy and Forgiveness

• Allah loves those who turn to Him in repentance and promises forgiveness for sincere supplication.
• The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

  “By Allah, I seek forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day.”
  (Sahih al-Bukhari)

C. Increasing Barakah (Blessings)

• Istighfar brings blessings to all areas of life, as highlighted in the Qur’an:

  “Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Indeed, He is ever a Perpetual Forgiver. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in [continuing] showers.”
  (Qur’an 71:10-11)

3. How to Make Istighfar a Habit

A. Recite Short Phrases Regularly

• “Astaghfirullah” (I seek forgiveness from Allah) is simple and can be repeated throughout the day.
• Use moments of stillness, such as during a commute or before sleeping, for remembrance.

B. Include It in Your Dua

• Begin your duas with istighfar to seek Allah’s mercy before asking for His blessings.
• Recite the comprehensive Sayyidul Istighfar (The Master of Forgiveness):

  “O Allah, You are my Lord, there is no deity except You. You created me and I am Your servant, and I abide to Your covenant and promise as best I can. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I admit to You Your blessings upon me, and I admit to my sins. So forgive me, for verily none can forgive sins except You.”
  (Sahih al-Bukhari)

C. Set a Daily Goal

• Commit to reciting istighfar a specific number of times each day, such as 100 or more.

4. The Night and Dawn are Ideal for Istighfar

The Qur’an highlights the importance of making istighfar at specific times:

“And those who seek forgiveness before dawn.”
(Qur’an 51:18)

The last third of the night is particularly blessed, as Allah descends to the lowest heaven and accepts the duas of those who seek His forgiveness.

Conclusion

Istighfar is a powerful act of worship that purifies the soul, brings blessings, and draws us closer to Allah. On this eighteenth day of Ramadan, let’s prioritise seeking forgiveness, knowing that Allah’s mercy is infinite and His forgiveness is available to all who sincerely repent.