Ethics of Du’â [1 - 4]

Ethic 1

As far as possible, empty the heart of all foreign thoughts.

Rida:

The focal point of Allâh Almighty’s Divine concentration is the heart.

It is stated in a blessed Hadīth: Verily, Allâh Almighty does not look at your faces and your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and actions.[1]

Ethic 2

The body, clothes and place of Du’â must be clean, tidy and pure.

Rida:

It is stated: Allah Almighty is pure and loves purity.[2]

Ethic 3

Before making Du’â indulge in virtuous acts to attract the Mercy of Allâh Almighty.

Rida:

Secret charity in this regard is rated most effective.

Ethic 4

If there are any rights of anyone upon you, fulfil them or have them pardoned from those concerned.

Rida:

To hang a garland of demands of people around your neck and then raise your hands in Du’a is similar to a person who goes to begin the court of a king while his creditors and victims of abuse swamp him with demands and justice. Some say ‘he stole my money’, some say ‘he abused me’, some say ‘he usurped my property’, etc. you be the judge! Is such a person worthy of assistance or fit to be thrown into the gallows?

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[1] Cited in the Sahīh of Imâm al-Muslim, Hadīth 6495, on the authority of Sayyidunā Abū Hurayrah.

[2] Reported in the Sunan of Imâm at-Tirmizī, on the authority of Sa’īd bin Musayyab.