Astaghfirullah indicates ‘I want forgiveness from Allah’ (singular), and Nastaghfirullah means ‘We ask forgiveness from Allah’ (plural). Both are acceptable and can be said by an individual. However, Astaghfirrullah is more intimate because it implies that you directly admit to Allah that you have done wrong and beg His forgiveness for it. Furthermore, various traditions claim that the Prophet (S.A.S) taught the phrases of Istighfar using the single number (Astaghfirullah in Arabic).
In addition, practicing Islamic supplications every day protects us from bad habits and makes every Muslim more patient and calm. One who commits sin and afterward seeks forgiveness from Allah(SWT), Almighty, the most merciful, ‘ll forgive him.
Is Istighfar and Astaghfirullah the Same?
Astaghfirullah meaning is a direct appeal for mercy from God. When you say this Arabic phrase, you ask, “I seek forgiveness from Allah.” Using God’s name directly shows your sincerity in wanting His forgiveness.
“Istighfar” and “Astaghfirullah” convey the same meaning when seeking forgiveness in Islamic practice. They both involve acknowledging one’s sins, feeling remorseful, and asking Allah (God) for forgiveness and mercy.
Moreover, “Istighfar ” is a general Arabic term seeking forgiveness. It is derived from the root word “ghafara,” which means to cover, conceal, or forgive. When a person says “Istighfar,” they express their intention to seek forgiveness from Allah for any wrongdoing. Allah(SWT) says in surah-e-Nisah;
“إِنَّمَا التَّوْبَةُ عَلَى اللَّهِ لِلَّذِينَ يَعْمَلُونَ السُّوءَ بِجَهَالَةٍ ثُمَّ يَتُوبُونَ مِن قَرِيبٍ فَأُولَٰئِكَ يَتُوبُ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِمْ ۗ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ عَلِيمًا حَكِيمًا”
“Repentance to God is only for those who do evil out of ignorance and then repent soon, for it is these that God will turn to. All-Knowing, All-Wise”.
What is the concept of Astaghfirullah?
Tawbah is begging Allah for forgiveness, confessing sin, and promising Allah that we will not repeat the same mistake. Tawbah is the path to getting closer to Allah, keeping on the right path, and avoiding sin. The first step of commitment and the key to walking in the right direction brings us closer to Allah.
Additionally, Tawbah is something we should all do and comprehend; Allah created us for a reason, and that is what we should concentrate on. And to not let life divert our attention away from our ultimate purpose. It may be difficult to avoid making mistakes and committing sins at first, but it will become simpler with time.
Duas for seeking forgiveness from Allah:
Astaghfar was performed by ordinary people like us and the prophets and their fellow believers who were already highly pious and shielded themselves from wrongdoing. However, they still practiced Istighfar and always sought forgiveness from Allah (SWT). istighfar meaning is basically to ask for Allah to forgive and have mercy on ourselves. All of these prayers are distinct, but they all have the same purpose. In light of hadith, below are some of the most regularly used ISTAGHFAR prayers:
“رب اغفر لي، وتب علي إنك أنت التواب الرحيم”
“O Allah, forgive me, and accept my regret, for You are the Forgiving, the Most Merciful.”
“سبحان الله وبحمده، أستغفر الله، وأتوب إليه”
“Glory be to God and praise be to Him, I seek forgiveness from God, and I repent to Him.”
أسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ رَبي مِنْ كُلِ ذَنبٍ وَأتُوبُ إلَيهِ
“I ask forgiveness from God, my Lord, for every sin, and I repent to Him”.
لَّآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّآ أَنتَ سُبْحَٰنَكَ إِنِّى كُنتُ مِنَ ٱلظَّٰلِمِينَ
“There is no god but You, Glory be to You. Indeed, I was of the wrongdoers”.
Difference between Istighfar And Astaghfirullah?
Istighfar is a broader concept encompassing various ways of seeking forgiveness, while Astaghfirullah is a more direct and personalized expression within the realm of Istighfar. Both terms emphasize the fundamental Islamic principle of recognizing one’s imperfections, seeking forgiveness, and striving to improve one’s relationship with Allah.
Similarly, both Tawbah and Astaghfirullah are rooted in the fundamental Islamic principle of acknowledging one’s imperfections, actively pursuing forgiveness, and diligently working to enhance one’s spiritual connection with Allah.
How many times should we say Astaghfirullah?
In Islam, there is no specific or fixed number of times that one should say “Astaghfirullah” (أستغفر الله), which translates to “I seek forgiveness from Allah.” The practice of saying “Astaghfirullah” is encouraged to seek Allah’s forgiveness and show repentance for one’s actions.
Muslims are encouraged to do acts of worship, including seeking forgiveness, throughout their daily lives. It is a personal and sincere practice that can be done as often as one feels the need to seek forgiveness or reconnect with their faith.
Conclusion:
In the world of seeking forgiveness, you must keep on imd that “Istighfar” empowers you to write a better story, while “Astaghfirullah” is the ink that colors your pages with mercy. So, let your heart dance to the rhythm of these words, painting a masterpiece of growth and grace. Always zikar “Astaghfirullah” , and watch your soul’s journey sparkle with the brilliance of a thousand stars. If you want to know more about the Islamic Duas you may visit eQuranekareem,an online Quran academy. It is the place where you feel comfortable asking for any query with our expert Quran tutors.
