The Qur’an and duʿāʾ

What is the Qur’an?

A book that invites reflection

• Look up. “In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day, are signs for people of understanding” (3:190).
• Look around. “We made from water every living thing” (21:30). The Qur’an repeatedly asks its readers to think, observe and reason.
• Look within. “We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth” (41:53).

Duʿāʾ: personal prayer

“Call on Me and I will answer you” (40:60).

Formal prayer has set times and words. Duʿāʾ can happen anywhere, in any language, about anything. “I am near. I answer the call of the caller when they call Me” (2:186).

How to make duʿāʾ

1. Begin by praising God and sending blessings on the Prophet and his family.
2. Speak honestly: thank Him, ask forgiveness, share what worries you.
3. Ask for others too. Praying for someone in their absence is especially loved.
4. Trust God’s answer: now, later, or something better than you asked.

Treasured prayers