Is the prevalence of earthquakes in a city a sign that traveling to it brings no good, and should one search for another city?
Islam has legislated the Istikhara prayer when one is about to undertake a matter. It is sunnah for the one performing Istikhara to then strive to discern the beneficial aspect himself or by consulting experts. Whatever his heart is then inclined towards is good, by the will of Allah. If the heart of the one performing Istikhara is not inclined towards a city due to frequent earthquakes, he is permitted to turn away from it and search for another suitable city, because the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, guided those who found a dwelling burdensome to move from it.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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