07 February, 2026
The topic of duas for qunoot is one of the most discussed issues related to the Witr prayer, especially because of the variations reported in authentic narrations. Understanding the dua for qunoot, its correct wording, and when it should be recited is essential for anyone seeking to perform Witr according to the Sunnah.
This article presents a detailed, evidence-based explanation of dua qunoot for witr prayer, clarifies the most authentic forms, and answers the common question: which dua qunoot is correct for witr.
Qunoot linguistically means obedience, humility, and prolonged standing. In prayer, it refers to a specific supplication made while standing.
In the context of Witr prayer, qunoot is:
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A supplication made while standing
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Recited before or after rukoo‘
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Specifically associated with Witr, although it also appears in other contexts (such as calamities)
The dua e qunoot for witr was taught directly by the Prophet ﷺ to his companions, making it a highly emphasized Sunnah.
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The most well-known and widely accepted dua for qunoot is the supplication taught by the Prophet ﷺ to Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali (may Allah be pleased with them both).
Arabic Text of the Dua Qunoot
اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي فِيمَنْ هَدَيْتَ، وَعَافِنِي فِيمَنْ عَافَيْتَ، وَتَوَلَّنِي فِيمَنْ تَوَلَّيْتَ، وَبَارِكْ لِي فِيمَا أَعْطَيْتَ، وَقِنِي شَرَّ مَا قَضَيْتَ، فَإِنَّكَ تَقْضِي وَلَا يُقْضَى عَلَيْكَ، إِنَّهُ لَا يَذِلُّ مَنْ وَالَيْتَ، وَلَا يَعِزُّ مَنْ عَادَيْتَ، تَبَارَكْتَ رَبَّنَا وَتَعَالَيْتَ
English Meaning
O Allah, guide me among those You have guided,
grant me well-being among those You have granted well-being,
take me into Your care among those You have taken into Your care,
bless me in what You have given,
and protect me from the evil of what You have decreed.
For You decree, and none can decree over You.
He whom You befriend is not humbled,
and he whom You oppose is not honored.
Blessed are You, our Lord, and Exalted.
This narration is recorded in Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi, and An-Nasa’i, and it is considered hasan sahih by many scholars.
This is the core dua qunoot for witr prayer and the most reliable foundation for anyone asking about authenticity.
A common question among Muslims is: which dua qunoot is correct for witr?
The scholarly answer is clear:
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The dua taught to Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali is the most authentic and preferred
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Other wordings are permissible
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No single wording is obligatory
Scholars such as Imam Ahmad, Ibn Taymiyyah, and An-Nawawi affirmed that:
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Any authentic supplication may be used in qunoot
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The prophetic dua remains the best option
Therefore, if someone recites this dua consistently, their Witr prayer is fully valid and in line with the Sunnah.
No. While the famous narration is the strongest, there are additional authentic variations reported from the companions.
Some companions used to:
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Add phrases of praise at the end
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Include supplications for forgiveness or mercy
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Make du‘a for the Muslim community
This flexibility highlights the nature of duas for qunoot as supplications, not rigid formulas.
When Is Dua Qunoot Recited in Witr?
There are two authentic positions regarding the timing of dua qunoot for witr prayer:
1. Before Rukoo‘ (More Common)
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Practiced by many companions
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Preferred by Imam Abu Hanifa
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Often taught in Hanafi schools
2. After Rukoo‘
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Reported from Umar ibn Al-Khattab
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Practiced widely in Ramadan
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Supported by many scholars of Hadith
Both positions are valid, and switching between them is permissible.
Raising the Hands During Dua Qunoot
Regarding physical posture during dua for qunoot:
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Raising the hands is recommended
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Hands are raised similarly to regular du‘a
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No wiping of the face after the dua is authentically established
The worshipper should maintain humility and focus rather than worrying about minor physical details.
Is Dua Qunoot Obligatory in Witr?
No, dua qunoot for witr prayer is not obligatory.
If someone:
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Forgets it
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Omits it intentionally
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Does not know it
Their Witr prayer is still valid, and no prostration of forgetfulness is required according to the majority of scholars.
During Ramadan, especially in Taraweeh prayers, the dua e qunoot for witr is often extended.
Common practices include:
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Longer supplications
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Collective du‘a for the Ummah
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Emotional and heartfelt pleas
While lengthening the dua is permissible, scholars emphasize:
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Avoiding hardship on the congregation
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Maintaining balance and clarity
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Sticking to authentic meanings
Can Dua Qunoot Be Made in One’s Own Language?
Yes, especially for those who do not know Arabic well.
Scholars allow:
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Making du‘a in one’s own language
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Especially in voluntary prayers like Witr
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As long as the meaning is respectful and appropriate
However, learning the prophetic dua qunoot for witr prayer remains highly encouraged.
Some recurring errors include:
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Believing there is only one mandatory wording
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Thinking qunoot is obligatory in every Witr
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Assuming qunoot must always be after rukoo‘
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Excessive length that causes hardship
Correct knowledge removes unnecessary confusion and helps maintain consistency in worship.
Combining Multiple Duas in Qunoot
It is permissible to:
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Combine the prophetic dua with other supplications
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Add personal requests
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Make du‘a for forgiveness, guidance, and protection
The key is maintaining:
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Proper etiquette
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Humility
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Clear intention
What is the best dua for qunoot in Witr?
The best dua for qunoot is the one taught by the Prophet ﷺ to Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali, beginning with “Allahumma ihdini feeman hadayt.”
Which dua qunoot is correct for witr according to the Sunnah?
The prophetic narration recorded in Abu Dawood and Tirmidhi is the most authentic, but other supplications are also acceptable.
Is dua qunoot for witr prayer mandatory?
No, it is a confirmed Sunnah but not obligatory. Witr remains valid without it.
Can I recite dua e qunoot for witr after rukoo‘?
Yes, reciting it after rukoo‘ is authentically reported and permissible.
Is it allowed to change the wording of dua qunoot?
Yes, as long as the meaning is sound and respectful, and the supplication aligns with Islamic principles.
Should dua qunoot be recited loudly or silently?
If praying alone, it may be silent. In congregation, the imam may recite it aloud for the followers to say “Ameen.”
Can I make personal dua during qunoot?
Yes, personal supplications may be included, especially in voluntary prayers like Witr.
