What is istighathah (seeking aid)?

Istighatha (seeking aid) is the act of seeking help when distress or similar situations occur. It is of two types:

1. Permissible Istighatha: Seeking aid from Allah Almighty. Seeking aid from a created being regarding something they are capable of, while believing that the true Giver of Aid is Allah, and the created being is merely a means. Examples include the Almighty's saying: "When you sought aid from your Lord, and He answered you," and His saying: "And the one who was of his party sought his help against the one who was of his enemy."

2. Seeking aid from a created being concerning something only Allah is capable of: This is major disbelief (kufr akbar), such as asking for a child or healing from illness.