Dua (supplication) is described as the "weapon of the believer" and the "essence of worship." But are there proper ways to make dua? Absolutely. Here are the etiquettes taught by the Prophet ﷺ.
Before Making Dua
- Be in a state of wudu: While not obligatory, being in a state of purification shows respect.
- Face the Qiblah: Turn towards the direction of Makkah when possible.
- Begin with praise of Allah: Start by glorifying Allah and sending salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ.
- Have sincerity: Make dua with a present heart, not just moving lips.
During Dua
- Raise your hands: The Prophet ﷺ would raise his palms facing upward.
- Be specific: Ask for exactly what you need — Allah loves specificity.
- Be persistent: Don't give up after one or two attempts. Keep asking.
- Ask with certainty: Believe that Allah will respond.
- Use Allah's Beautiful Names: Call upon Allah using His names relevant to your request.
Best Times for Dua
While dua is accepted at all times, certain moments are especially blessed:
- The last third of the night (Tahajjud time)
- Between the adhan and iqamah
- In sujud (prostration)
- On Fridays, especially the last hour before Maghrib
- During rain
- While traveling
- While fasting, especially at iftar time
- On the Day of Arafah
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Making dua against yourself, your family, or your wealth in anger
- Being hasty — saying "I made dua but it wasn't answered"
- Not being attentive during dua
- Asking for something haram (forbidden)
Trust in Allah's Response
The Prophet ﷺ said: "Any Muslim who makes a supplication containing nothing sinful or severing family ties, Allah will give him one of three things: either his dua will be answered immediately, it will be stored for him in the Hereafter, or an equivalent amount of evil will be diverted from him." (Ahmad)