❖ The Shariah Ruling on Collective Du‘ā and Guidance for Various Occasions ❖
❀ Question:
Is it permissible to make collective du‘ā (supplication) on various occasions, such as at the opening of a shop, after slaughtering an animal, or before a meal?
✿ Response by:
Shaykh Abdul Wakeel Nasir (حفظه الله)
① General Permissibility of Collective Du‘ā:
✔ Collective du‘ā is permissible on certain occasions, especially when the nature of the event or its importance necessitates it.
✔ If people request du‘ā or ask a scholar to supplicate, the scholar may lead the du‘ā.
✔ There is no harm in supplicating collectively during a sermon, gathering, or public event, provided it is not made into a fixed or obligatory ritual.
② Scope of Prohibition:
✘ What is prohibited is turning post-prayer collective du‘ā into a permanent and obligatory act, especially when people are unaware of the nature of the du‘ā being made, and begin to treat it as a prescribed part of worship.
✔ If du‘ā is done occasionally and according to need, there is no objection in Shari‘ah.
③ Du‘ā During Openings or Similar Events:
✔ Making du‘ā at the opening of a shop or house is permissible, provided that it does not become a formal custom resembling a religious symbol or bid‘ah (innovation).
✔ Sometimes the event may be accompanied by advice or reminders, and followed by a du‘ā with raised hands, or even without a du‘ā — all are acceptable if done in moderation.
④ Du‘ā Before or After Meals:
✔ Saying du‘ā before and after eating is a Sunnah — to be done individually.
✘ It is not correct to make collective du‘ā before or after meals as a fixed practice or to formalize it in a particular format.
✔ However, if someone gives advice and a du‘ā is offered during such a gathering, it is permissible, provided it is not treated as obligatory or excessive.
⑤ The Need for Balance:
✔ It is essential to avoid both extremes — neither should collective du‘ā be overly promoted, nor should all forms of collective du‘ā be outright rejected.
✘ No practice should be given such prominence that it begins to be viewed as an essential part of religion.
✅ Summary:
✔ Collective du‘ā is permissible on specific occasions such as shop openings, religious talks, or meals when accompanied by advice or reminders.
✘ Prohibition applies when collective du‘ā is institutionalized, especially after every prayer, or made to seem like a compulsory act of worship.
✔ Moderation and balance are key — such du‘ās may be done occasionally but must not be turned into fixed rituals.
