Is it an innovation to designate a specific number of times for seeking forgiveness (Istighfar) and sending blessings upon the Prophet (Salah an-Nabi) — may Allah bless him and grant him peace — as a punishment for sins or shortcomings, and if so, what is the alternative?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Binding oneself to acts of obedience as a punishment for shortcomings is not an innovation (bid'ah). The predecessors (Salaf) themselves reported doing this; for instance, Abdullah ibn Wahb would oblige himself to fast or give charity as a punishment for backbiting. It is advisable to remember Allah Almighty frequently in all circumstances, and not to confine it to a specific act of disobedience, while also learning about the virtue of seeking forgiveness (istighfar) and the importance of sending blessings upon the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/66142
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- Original fatwa ID
- 66142
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Read the full answer on Ftawy