Five special times when prayers are accepted, in light of the Quran and Hadith

Dua is the weapon of the believer and the most beautiful means of connection between a servant and Allah. But there are certain special moments in daily life when raising one's hands before Allah is never turned away.

In light of the Quran and Hadith, five such precious times for the acceptance of dua have been described, when a servant's pleas are answered with special favour.

The last third of the night, the time of Tahajjud, is the best time for the acceptance of dua. A hadith says that at this time Almighty Allah descends to the sky of the world and calls out — who is there to call upon Me, so I may answer? Who is there to ask of Me, so I may give? Who is there to seek forgiveness, so I may forgive? (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)

On Friday, the best day of the week, there is a particular time when dua is accepted. According to most Islamic scholars, the time from the Asr prayer until sunset, or Maghrib, is the most opportune moment for dua on Friday.

The brief interval between the end of the azan and the start of the iqamah is extremely important. The beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) said that dua made in this interval is never turned away. (Jami Tirmidhi)

When a servant bows down in prostration, he comes closest to his Lord. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) urged making abundant dua in prostration, saying it is the best moment to attain closeness to Allah. (Sahih Muslim)

The moment in the final sitting of the five daily obligatory prayers — after reciting the tashahhud and durood and before turning to say salam — is also highly suitable for dua.

Alongside these specific times, sincerity of heart, lawful livelihood and firm faith are essential for the acceptance of dua.

Keeping complete trust in Allah, making abundant istighfar and prayer in these blessed moments is the duty of every believer.