What is doa qunut?
Doa qunut is a supplication recited while standing in prayer, most often in the final rakaat. Rather than a fixed obligation of every prayer, it is a special doa in which the worshipper praises Allah and asks for guidance, wellbeing, protection from harm and forgiveness. Because it is a doa, its heart is turning to Allah with hope and humility, not merely reciting set words.
In the Shafi'i school followed by most Muslims in Singapore, qunut in the Subuh prayer is a well-known and encouraged practice. Qunut is also recited in the Witr prayer, especially in the latter half of Ramadan. Practices vary between schools of thought, which is one reason to learn it from a qualified teacher.
- A supplication recited while standing, usually in the final rakaat
- Praises Allah and asks for guidance, protection and forgiveness
- Practice varies between schools of thought
When is doa qunut recited?
The two most common occasions are the Subuh prayer and the Witr prayer. In Subuh, qunut is recited in the second (final) rakaat, after rising from the ruku' (bowing) and before going down into sujud (prostration). In Witr, it is recited in the final rakaat in a similar position. There is also qunut nazilah — a supplication made at times of calamity or hardship affecting the ummah — which may be recited in other prayers.
- Subuh — in the final rakaat, after ruku', before sujud
- Witr — in the final rakaat, notably in the latter half of Ramadan
- Qunut nazilah — at times of hardship affecting the community
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A short well-known line, in rumi
The doa qunut is a longer supplication, so rather than reproduce a full text here, it is best learned in full from a qualified source. A widely known opening line is:
Rumi: "Allahummah-dinii fiiman hadait" — Meaning: "O Allah, guide me among those You have guided." The supplication continues to ask for wellbeing, protection and blessing in what Allah has decreed, closing with praise upon the Prophet ﷺ. For the complete wording and correct pronunciation, follow the guidance below rather than memorising a partial version.
- Rumi opening: Allahummah-dinii fiiman hadait
- Meaning: O Allah, guide me among those You have guided
- Learn the full text from a qualified teacher, not a partial one
How to raise the hands and follow the imam
When reciting qunut, it is common to raise the hands in supplication. Praying in congregation, the imam recites the qunut aloud and the congregation says "Aamiin" to the supplication and softly affirms the closing praise. If you join a congregation partway, follow the imam. When praying alone, you recite it yourself. If you are still learning, it is perfectly fine to keep the prayer simple and add the qunut as you learn it correctly.
Where to learn the full text and rulings
Because doa qunut differs between schools of thought — when it is recited, and whether it is emphasised in Subuh — it is important to learn it from a reliable source rather than assume one practice is the only correct one. For the full Arabic text, correct pronunciation, audio, and to understand the differences of opinion, refer to MUIS resources and your local asatizah. This guide is an introduction, not a ruling.
