The Virtues of Istighfar (repentance)

People often forget the power of istighfar. It is very simple task of reciting the phrase "astaghfiruAllah" yet it is incredibly powerful in importance and the effect it has on a person. 

The benefits of istighfar ( repentance):

• it leads to sense of relief and contentment 

• removes stress and anxiety

• duaa is answered

• opens the doors of mercy from God 

• refrains us from committing future sins

• leads to pious deeds

The prophet ( SWT) used to say the istighfar at least 100 times a day- repenting from all sins committed. The door of repentance is always open and God welcomes people to repent so He can shower them with mercy and forgiveness. 

Istighfar is also called "tawbah" in Arabic. Tawbah is more specific type of repentance. It means "returning to Allah" through repentance and asking for mercy and forgiveness to avoid punishment in the hereafter. Tawbah and istighfar can be done regardless of the severity of the sin. God will always hear you and forgive you as long as it is sincere. 

Humans are weak by nature thus asking for forgiveness should be innate in us and we should always practice it.  

The Prophet (SWT ) said, "all the sons of Adam are sinners and the best among the sinners are those who repent."

One of Allah's names is "alghafour" meaning the Merciful and the Forgiver. So repent to Him and inshaAllah it will be forgiven.