Dua

What Does Dua Mean in Detail?

Dua is one of the most fundamental acts of worship in Islam, described by Hz. Peygamber Muhammad (sallallahu aleyhi ve sellem) as 'the weapon of the believer' and 'the essence of worship.' Unlike the formal Salah (ritual namaz), Dua is an informal, personal conversation with Allah that can be made at any time, in any language, and in any position. During Hac, Dua takes on heightened significance. The most important time for Dua is the afternoon of the Day of Arafat — Hz. Peygamber said, 'The best Dua is the Dua of the Day of Arafat.' Other sunnet times include: during Tavaf (especially between the Rukn Yamani and Hacer-ul Esved), at the Multazam, while drinking Zamzam, at Safa and Marwa during Say, after stoning the small and middle Cemerat, and after all farz namazs. Proper Dua etiquette includes: beginning with praise of Allah and salawat upon Hz. Peygamber, being sincere and humble, having conviction that Allah will respond, and not hastening the response. Pilgrims are encouraged to prepare their Dua lists before Hac and to make Dua for their families, the Muslim ummah, and all of humanity.