An important constituent of the Isha prayer is Dua e Qunoot. This dua is recited in the last (third) raka’at of Witr of Isha prayer. In Arabic, the precise meaning of ‘Al-Qunoot’ is ‘Al-Dua.’ It is also translated to mean obedience, humbleness, humility, and serenity.
Many people are not familiar with the background and meaning of this dua, so in today’s article, we’ll be addressing the history and significance of this beautiful dua.
Importance of Isha Prayer in Islam
Salah (prayer) is the second pillar of Islam and is a direct mode of communication with Allah. It is compulsory that every Muslim learns Salah and offers it five times a day to improve their relationship with the All-Mighty and ask for His blessings and forgiveness.
Although all prayers are equally important in Islam, Fajr and Isha are regarded as the thresholds to measure the difference between the Momineen (true believers) and Munafiqeen (pretenders of faith).
Hazrat Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Isha and Fajr is the most troublesome Salah for Munafiqeen. Had they known rewards for them; they would have gone to them regardless of whether they needed to creep on their knees.” (Sahi Bukhari)
The History of Dua e Qanoot
It is the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to recite this dua during Witr.
It is narrated by Ubayy bin Ka’b:
“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to pray Witr with three raka’ats. In the first, he would recite: “Glorify the Name of Your Lord, the Highest,” in the second: “Say: O you disbelievers!” and in the third: “Say: He is Allah, (the) One.” And he would say the Qunoot before bowing, and when he finished he would say: Subhanal-Malikil-Quddus (Glory be to the Sovereign, the Most Holy) three times, elongating the words the last time.” (Sunan An Nasa’i, Vol. 2, Book 20, Hadith – 1700)
When Should You Recite this Dua During Witr Salah?
There are different schools of thought as to when during the last raka’at of Witr Salah should this dua be recited.
Some religious scholars state that the dua should be recited after Ruku (bowing); after reciting ‘Sami-Allahu liman hamidah; ‘Rabbana walakal hamd,’ recite the Qunoot. After completing the dua, say the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and perform Sujud.
Alternatively, you can also recite the Qunoot before going into the Ruku. After recitation from the Quran, raise your hands and say the Takbeer, recite the dua, say the Takbeer again, and go into Sujud.
Is Reciting Dua Qunoot Compulsory?
As mentioned, reciting the Qunoot is a Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (ﷺ). Hence, it is not compulsory to recite this dua in the Witr Salah. Imams often recite different duas, both from the Quran and Sunnah, in Witr Salah.
However, since this dua has been especially mentioned and recited by the Prophet (ﷺ), it is a good practice to recite it at any time during the day for Allah’s blessings.
Dua Qunoot Arabic Recitation
Dua Qunoot Transliteration
Allahumma inna nasta-eenoka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu’minu bika wa natawakkalu alaika wa nusni alaikal khair, wa nashkuruka wala nakfuruka wa nakhla-oo wa natruku mai yafjuruka, Allah humma iyyaka na’budu wa laka nusalli wa nasjud wa ilaika nas aaa wa nahfizu wa narju rahma taka wa nakhshaa azaabaka inna azaabaka bil kuffari mulhik.
English Translation
O, Allah! We invoke you for help and beg for forgiveness, and we believe in you and have trust in you, and we praise you, in the best way we can; and we thank you, and we are not ungrateful to you, and we forsake and turn away from the one who disobeys you. O, Allah! We worship you and prostrate ourselves before you, and we hasten towards you and serve you, and we hope to receive your mercy, and we dread your torment. Surely, the disbelievers shall incur your torment.
Conclusion for Dua-e-Qunoot – Translation & Significance
As practicing Muslims, we must always be prepared to seek maximum reward and forgiveness from Allah. Dua e Qunoot is a beautiful dua that affirms Allah’s Might and Power and seeks his mercy and blessings. Hence, make this dua a part of your regular supplications and also a part of your Witr Salah.
May Allah’s compassion and sanctions be with you always!
