what is istikhara in islam

Istikhara is a prayer recited by Muslims who are in need of guidance from Allah when facing a decision in their life. The prayer, known as salah in Arabic, is performed in two units of prayer or rakaah followed by the supplication of Salat al-Istikhaara. The word Istikhara in istikhara prayer linguistically means to ask for good in a matter. It is done when a decision is to be made in matters which are neither obligatory nor prohibited, such as buying something, taking a job, or choosing a spouse. The prayer is not necessary for decisions that are already clear, such as performing the obligatory Hajj if one is financially and physically able to do so. The primary ingredient of the istikhara is conviction and sincerity in asking Allah to help one make a choice. The prayer is a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, that he recommended and performed.