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The question

What is the meaning of the phrase "and if You know" that appears in the Istikhara supplication, given that God is Omnipotent over all things?

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Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

The Istikhara supplication (prayer for guidance) is one of the greatest supplications because it combines the meanings of reliance on God and entrusting all matters to Him. It also acknowledges His perfect knowledge and power. The phrase "O Allah, if You know" does not imply doubt in God's knowledge; rather, its meaning is: "If what is hidden from me and has already been decreed in Your knowledge is good for me, then destine it and facilitate it by Your power and knowledge." This is a plea, using God's knowledge and power, for Him to choose what is good for His servant and to make it easy for him. There is no issue with this supplication; on the contrary, it encompasses the meanings of utter dependence on God, complete entrustment to Him, and trust in His choice.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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