WHICH IS BETTER TO SAY ASTAGHFIRULLAH OR NASTAGFIRULLAH?

QUESTION:

As Salaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah,

For istighfaar, saying which of these two is better: astaghfirullaah or nastaghfirullaah?

ANSWER:

Wa Alaikum As Salaam Wa Rahmatullah,

Saying Astaghfirullah means ‘I seek forgiveness from Allah’, (singular) and Nastaghfirullah means ‘We seek forgiveness from Allah’ (plural). Both can be said by an individual and are acceptable. However, Astaghfirrullah is more personal as it brings about the understanding that you personally admit to Allah that you have committed a wrong and you are seeking His forgiveness for it. Also, it is mentioned in various traditions that the Prophet (S.A.S) taught the words of Istighfar using the singular number, (of Astaghfirullah). In this regard, he is reported to have instructed the believers to say, ‘Astaghfirullah Alladhi Laa ilaha illa huwa Al Hayyul Qayyum Wa Atubu ilaihi’. (Abu Dawood).

And Allah Knows best

Mufti Waseem Khan

20/4/2020