The Story Of
Power Istighfar
This story about
“Istighfar” is from the life of Imam Ahmed Bin Hanbal, who is considered as a
renowned scholar of Islam and a famous theologian. Imam Ahmed is also
considered to be the founder of the Hanbali school of fiqh (Islamic
jurisprudence) and is one of the most celebrated Sunni theologians, often
referred to as the “Sheikh ul-Islam” or the “Imam of Ahl al-Sunnah.”
During his old age,
while Imam Ahmed was travelling he stopped by a town. After the prayers, he
wanted to stay for the night in the masjid yard because he didn’t know anyone
in the town. Owing to his humility, he hadn’t introduced himself to anyone
thinking that if he did, he would be welcomed by many people.
Failing to recognize
Ahmed bin Hanbal, the caretaker of the mosque refused to let him stay in the
mosque. As Imam Ahmed was quite old, the caretaker had to drag him out of the
mosque. On seeing this, a baker from a nearby place felt pity for this man
(Imam Ahmed) and offered to be the host to him for the night. During his stay
with the baker, Imam Ahmed observed that the baker would constantly recite
Istighfar (seek forgiveness from Allah). Imam Ahmed asked the baker if the
constant practice of saying Istighfar had any effect on him. The baker
responded by telling Imam Ahmed that Allah had accepted all of his duas
(supplications), except one. When he asked him what dua was it that hadn’t been
accepted, the baker replied that he had been asking Allah to provide him the
privilege to meet the famous scholar Imam Ahmed bin Hanbal.
On this, Imam Ahmed bin
Hanbal said that Allah had not only listened to his dua but had dragged him
onto his (the baker’s) doorsteps
