Dua al-Qunut

What is Dua al-Qunut?

Dua al-Qunut is a supplication recited while standing in prayer, most commonly in the Witr prayer performed after Isha. It is a moment of humble pleading in which the worshipper asks Allah for guidance, protection, well-being, and mercy. In the Hanafi school it is recited in the third rak'ah of Witr before bowing; in other schools it is often said after rising from bowing.

The Common Wordings

A widely recited form, taught to al-Hasan ibn Ali by the Prophet ﷺ, is: "Allahumma-hdini fiman hadayt, wa afini fiman afayt, wa tawallani fiman tawallayt..." — "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..." (Abu Dawud 1425, Tirmidhi 464). In the Hanafi tradition two short supplications, "Allahumma inna nasta'inuka..." and "Allahumma iyyaka na'budu...", are commonly recited; these are the well-known Qunut prayers (Kunut duaları) memorised by many Muslims.

Qunut al-Nazilah

In addition to the Witr, a special Qunut al-Nazilah may be recited in the obligatory prayers at times of public calamity — such as drought, oppression, or danger to the community — asking Allah to relieve the hardship and protect the believers. The Prophet ﷺ himself recited qunut in this way during certain events.

Connection to Prayer

• Most often part of the Witr prayer after Isha.
• Recited standing, with hands raised in the Hanafi practice.
• Qunut al-Nazilah is added to the obligatory prayers in times of crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

In which prayer is Qunut recited?

Most commonly in the Witr prayer after Isha. Some schools also recite a qunut in the Fajr prayer, and a special qunut (al-Nazilah) may be added to obligatory prayers during a calamity.

What if I don't know the Qunut by heart?

One may recite any of the authentic wordings, or any sincere supplication for guidance, forgiveness, and protection. Learning the Prophet's wording is best, but Allah accepts the heartfelt plea of the worshipper.