1. Introduction
The Witr prayer is a special voluntary (nafl or sunnah) prayer performed after the night prayer (Isha). It holds significant spiritual merit in various schools of Islamic jurisprudence. Within this prayer, believers often recite Dua e Qunoot, a moving and profound supplication that seeks Allah’s help, forgiveness, mercy, and guidance. Although there are multiple versions of Qunoot reported across hadith and different scholarly traditions, the essential purpose remains the same: to humble oneself before Allah, express gratitude, and ask for His divine favors.
In many Muslim communities, Dua e Qunoot is memorized at an early age, often taught in weekend schools or by parents. Its recitation can stir deep emotions, as it reflects a combination of praise, surrender, and reliance on the Creator. Over the centuries, various luminaries of Islamic scholarship—such as Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Imam Ash-Shafi‘i, Imam Malik, and Imam Abu Hanifah—have discussed the practice and its nuances. Despite minor differences in wordings and the position (before or after ruku‘ in Witr prayer), the essence of turning wholeheartedly to Allah unites all believers who recite it.
Below, you will find a specific version of Dua e Qunoot that is widely recited. It begins with the words mentioned in your request:
“اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْتَعِينُكَ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُكَ…” and continues with the line “اللَّهُمَّ إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ…”
We have compiled it into a table for clarity, followed by an in-depth commentary and additional reflections.
2. Dua e Qunoot in a Tabular Format
Below is the Dua e Qunoot in three columns: Arabic Text, Transliteration, and an original English Translation designed to capture the essence of the supplication in a professional and accessible manner.
Arabic Text | Transliteration | English Translation (Unique Rendering) |
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْتَعِينُكَ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُكَ وَنُؤْمِنُ بِكَ وَنَتَوَكَّلُ عَلَيْكَ وَنُثْنِي عَلَيْكَ الْخَيْرَ كُلَّهُ وَنَشْكُرُكَ وَلَا نَكْفُرُكَ وَنَخْلَعُ وَنَتْرُكُ مَن يَفْجُرُكَ | Allāhumma innā nasta‘īnuka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu’minu bika wa natawakkalu ‘alayka wa nuthnī ‘alayka al-khayra kullahu wa nashkuruka wa lā nakfuruka wa nakhla‘u wa natruku man yafjuruk. | O Allah, truly we turn to You for help and beg Your pardon. We affirm our faith in You and rely upon You fully. We extol all goodness in Your praise, and we show gratitude to You without any denial of Your favors. We renounce and distance ourselves from those who willfully rebel against You. |
اللَّهُمَّ إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ، وَلَكَ نُصَلِّي وَنَسْجُدُ، وَإِلَيْكَ نَسْعَى وَنَحْفِدُ، نَرْجُو رَحْمَتَكَ، وَنَخَافُ عَذَابَكَ، إِنَّ عَذَابَكَ بِالْكُفَّارِ مُلْحِقٌ | Allāhumma iyyāka na‘budu, wa laka nuṣallī wa nasjudu, wa ilayka nas‘ā wa naḥfidu, narjū raḥmataka, wa nakhāfu ‘adhābaka, innā ‘adhābaka bil-kuffāri mulḥiq. | O Allah, You alone we worship, and for You alone we offer our prayer and prostration. Toward You do we strive and hasten, hoping to receive Your mercy. Yet we are ever wary of Your punishment, for indeed, Your retribution does befall those who persist in faithlessness. May we be spared by Your benevolence and guided to remain ever faithful. |
Note: Minor variations in spacing, diacritical marks, or optional phrases may exist. Scholars and communities may include additional lines or conclude with praises such as “اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنَا فِيمَن هَدَيْتَ…” if following different narrations. The essence, however, remains consistent: seeking Allah’s aid, forgiveness, mercy, and expressing total devotion.
3. Historical Roots and Scholarly Endorsement
3.1 Early Practices
Prophetic Tradition: Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught various forms of Qunoot to his companions, especially during times of hardship, known as Qunoot an-Nawazil (the Qunoot for calamities). Over time, a distinct Qunoot for Witr prayer became standard in nightly devotions.
Companions’ Transmission: Traditions from companions such as Umar ibn Al-Khattab, Ubayy ibn Ka‘b, and Al-Hasan ibn Ali (may Allah be pleased with them all) play a key role in shaping textual variants.
3.2 Canonical References
Hadith Literature: Collections such as Sunan Abu Dawud, Sunan at-Tirmidhi, and Musnad Ahmad contain narrations of different Qunoot prayers.
Classical Scholars: Prominent jurists like Imam Ash-Shafi‘i included a form of Qunoot in Witr (and in Fajr for some Shafi‘i communities), while Imam Abu Hanifah strongly recommended reciting it before the ruku‘ in Witr. Despite these differences, the universal message of seeking Allah’s help remains the same.
4. Linguistic Analysis and Thematic Breakdown
One way to deepen your connection to this Qunoot is to reflect on the key words and themes. Below is a thematic outline that spotlights the supplication’s spiritual dimensions:
نَسْتَعِينُكَ (nasta‘īnuka) – “We seek Your assistance.”
Acknowledges Allah as the supreme Helper, emphasizing that all forms of support ultimately derive from Him.
نَسْتَغْفِرُكَ (nastaghfiruka) – “We ask Your forgiveness.”
Centers on repentance, highlighting human fallibility and the need for divine mercy.
نُؤْمِنُ بِكَ (nu’minu bika) – “We believe in You.”
Reaffirms the core tenet of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) and the believer’s trust in divine wisdom.
نَتَوَكَّلُ عَلَيْكَ (natawakkalu ‘alayka) – “We rely on You.”
Underscores reliance on Allah in all affairs, a crucial Islamic concept called tawakkul.
نُثْنِي عَلَيْكَ الْخَيْرَ كُلَّهُ (nuthnī ‘alayka al-khayra kullahu) – “We extol all goodness in Your praise.”
Proclaims that ultimate and absolute praise belongs to Allah alone.
نَشْكُرُكَ وَلَا نَكْفُرُكَ (nashkuruka wa lā nakfuruk) – “We thank You and never show ingratitude.”
Emphasizes the attitude of gratitude. In contrast to kufr (unbelief or ingratitude), the believer chooses shukr (thankfulness).
مَن يَفْجُرُكَ (man yafjuruk) – “Those who disobey or rebel against You.”
Implies renunciation of wrongdoing and a commitment to a moral path aligned with divine guidance.
إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ (iyyāka na‘budu) – “You alone do we worship.”
Echoes Surah Al-Fatiha (1:5), reaffirming the exclusive worship of Allah.
نَسْجُدُ (nasjudu) – “We prostrate.”
Symbolizes ultimate submission, the physical demonstration of humility and reverence before the Creator.
نَرْجُو رَحْمَتَكَ (narjū raḥmataka) – “We hope for Your mercy.”
A direct appeal for Allah’s compassion, essential in times of difficulty.
نَخَافُ عَذَابَكَ (nakhāfu ‘adhābaka) – “We fear Your punishment.”
Balances hope with a healthy, reverential fear, urging believers to remain conscious of moral accountability.
بِالْكُفَّارِ مُلْحِقٌ (bil-kuffāri mulḥiq) – “It is bound to befall the ungrateful/disbelievers.”
Reminds of the consequences for persistent unbelief, serving as both caution and reflection.
By meditating on each of these themes, one internalizes the supplication’s deep sincerity, ensuring it transcends mechanical recitation and becomes a transformational spiritual act.
5. Spiritual Significance
Affirmation of Faith
The Qunoot seamlessly transitions from seeking Allah’s help to reaffirming belief in His oneness and worship. This structure amplifies the feeling of closeness to Him.
Cultivation of Gratitude and Humility
Declaring thanks while simultaneously acknowledging dependence fosters a disposition of humility. The believer stands in awe, recognizing blessings granted daily.
Forgiveness and Mercy
The supplication underscores that Allah alone can grant forgiveness. Even when faced with life’s upheavals or personal shortcomings, one’s heart finds solace in divine pardon.
Guidance and Protection
By renouncing those who deviate from truth, the supplicant shows allegiance to righteousness. This shapes moral compasses, strengthening resolve to uphold justice and kindness.
Hope Coupled with Fear
Islamic spirituality values the delicate balance of hope (rajā’) and fear (khawf). Too much fear without hope leads to despair, while unbridled hope may embolden heedlessness. The Qunoot fosters both, inspiring upright actions.
6. Practical Guidelines for Recitation
6.1 Integrating Qunoot in Witr Prayer
Timing:
Hanafi: Often recited before going into ruku‘ of the final rak‘ah.
Shafi‘i and Maliki: Commonly recited after rising from ruku‘.
Hanbali: Opinions vary; many follow a practice similar to the Shafi‘i method.
Position of Hands:
Typically, one raises the hands during dua, palms facing upwards in humility, though variations exist based on local scholarly advice.
Audibility:
In congregational prayers, the imam generally recites Qunoot aloud while followers say “Ameen” or remain silent in attentive listening.
When praying alone, one may recite it quietly or audibly enough to hear oneself, focusing on sincerity and concentration.
6.2 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Excessively Long Pauses: Prolonging Qunoot too much may disrupt the overall flow of Salah.
Speed Reading: Reciting hurriedly to “finish” defeats the prayer’s purpose. Aim for clear, calm enunciation.
Neglecting Meaning: Engaging with the translation fosters an emotional and spiritual bond.
6.3 Teaching Children and Beginners
Gradual Memorization: Divide the Qunoot into short segments (e.g., one line per week).
Interactive Sessions: Encourage group recitations and peer learning.
Audio Aids: Utilize reliable recitations from recognized Qur’an reciters/imams for pronunciation reference.
7. FAQs and Clarifications
Q1. Is the Qunoot obligatory or recommended?
Opinions vary. The Hanafi madhhab places Witr and Qunoot in a category of emphasized necessity (wajib), while other schools consider Witr sunnah mu’akkadah (highly recommended). Regardless of the label, Qunoot remains a beloved practice.
Q2. Can I recite Qunoot in Fajr prayer?
In the Shafi‘i tradition, Qunoot in Fajr is commonly practiced year-round. Other schools usually restrict Qunoot to Witr or to special calamity-related Qunoot (Qunoot an-Nawazil).
Q3. May I use a different version of Qunoot?
Absolutely. Multiple narrations exist, including the well-known “اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي فِيمَنْ هَدَيْتَ…” version. The shared hallmark across them is the sincerity in asking Allah for guidance, protection, and blessings.
Q4. What if I forget Qunoot in Witr?
Some schools recommend performing Sujood as-Sahw (the prostration of forgetfulness), while others do not. Following your local imam or a trusted scholar is advisable for consistent practice.
8. Tips for Memorization and Internalization
Pair Recitation with Translation
Spend a few moments each day reading the Arabic text alongside the English meaning. Visualize or contemplate the significance.
Daily Reinforcement
Incorporate Qunoot recitation into your daily routine—whether after Isha or at bedtime if you plan to pray Witr later. Repetition cements memory.
Reflective Journaling
After reciting Qunoot, jot down how it resonates with current life events. Over time, you’ll see how these words inspire hope and resilience.
Seek Feedback
If possible, recite the Qunoot before someone well-versed in Arabic pronunciation. Subtle corrections can enhance the beauty of your supplication.
Audio-Visual Tools
Leverage mobile apps, digital flashcards, or short YouTube lessons by credible scholars to refine your memorization.
9. Broader Reflections on Qunoot’s Role
9.1 Personal Spiritual Growth
By consistently reciting Qunoot, believers foster:
A Conscious Heart: The knowledge that Allah alone can forgive, sustain, and guide shapes daily decisions.
Unshakeable Faith: Continual reliance on Allah in times of ease and hardship cements a strong bond with the Divine.
Hope in Divine Mercy: Human life invariably cycles through difficulties, and Qunoot is a persistent reminder that Allah’s doors of mercy remain open.
9.2 Communal and Social Dimensions
Reciting Qunoot in congregation—especially during Taraweeh in Ramadan—can:
Unite Hearts: Collective supplication fosters empathy and spiritual solidarity.
Cultivate Compassion: Publicly uttered prayers remind individuals of shared struggles, encouraging mutual support.
Reinforce Moral Values: Hearing the lines about gratitude, worship, and reliance on Allah collectively can awaken a community’s conscience.
10. Conclusion
Dua e Qunoot stands among the most cherished and transformative prayers in the Islamic tradition. Whether one adheres to the wording presented in the table above or uses another widely accepted version, the primary objective remains constant: to connect intimately with Allah, seeking His unbounded mercy, forgiveness, and guidance.
The key to unlocking the full spiritual potential of this supplication is:
Understanding: Aligning the heart with the meaning behind every phrase.
Consistency: Making it a steady habit in Witr, deepening familiarity and heartfelt connection.
Reflective Attitude: Contemplating how each line resonates with personal life journeys and moral growth.
May Allah guide us to the best of actions, increase us in sincerity, and accept our prayers—especially our heartfelt pleas in the stillness of the night through the Dua e Qunoot.
References & Suggested Reading
Abu Dawud, Sunan – Chapters on Salah and Witr.
At-Tirmidhi, Jami’ – Narrations on Qunoot an-Nawazil and Qunoot in Witr.
Imam Ash-Shafi‘i, Kitab al-Umm – Discussion on Qunoot in Fajr and Witr.
Imam Abu Hanifah, Fiqh al-Akbar – Outlines Witr as wajib, referencing Qunoot significance.
Ibn Qudamah, Al-Mughni – Explores variations in reciting Qunoot across schools.
Imam Nawawi, Al-Adhkar – General counsel on the virtues of du‘a and supplication in worship.
Disclaimer: While the text above incorporates authentic references and widely accepted scholarly interpretations, local practices and specific madhhab rulings may vary. Always consult a learned scholar for precise guidance tailored to your context.
Final Note
By integrating the Dua e Qunoot into daily worship with awareness, humility, and heartfelt reverence, one gradually develops a profound spiritual bond with Allah. Its words serve as a timeless reminder that true security, success, and peace of mind ultimately rest in the hands of our Merciful Creator—One who invites us, night after night, to call upon Him for all our needs.