The word istikharah is derived from the word 'khayr' (خير) which means goodness. The addition of alif, sin and ta’ changes its meaning. Istikhar (استخار) means asking for a choice. This is stated by Imam Ibn al-Mundhir in Lisan al-Arab. Salat al-Istikharah prayer is a Sunnah which the Prophet ﷺ prescribed for anyone who wants to do an action but is hesitant about it. It is a form of submission and a plea in the Court of the King of Kings for guidance. It is a practical demonstration that one has no power and no strength of one’s own.
