Supplication and Litany

The phrase “Your names are among the names” in the Ziyārat al-Jāmiʿa al-Kabīra means that the names of the Imams (AS) are recorded among the divine names and in the Preserved Tablet, reflecting their exalted rank and greatness in existence. Likewise, “your tombs are among the tombs” means that they were laid to rest in the earth among other graves. The difference is that their tombs are sacred shrines and places of visitation.

In the Duʿāʾ Abū Ḥamza al-Thumālī, *talammuq* means expressing the reverence of a servant before God, not saying something contrary to one’s sincere belief. This expression of love and tenderness is in keeping with one’s awareness of God’s generosity and boundless mercy, and is fitting before Him. Even in the face of punishment, a person does not stop expressing love for God.

The devotional practice involving the invocation “O my Lady, O Fatima, come to my aid” that is being circulated online has clear problems both in its source and its wording. It has no reliable source, and attributing it to an infallible figure is unfounded. Its wording also conflicts with Quranic passages, such as verse 18 of Surah al-Jinn, and with reports stating that mosques belong to God and that no one should be invoked alongside Him.

Specific hours are assigned to each infallible Imam (AS), but their blessed spirit is present at all times. This designation is like that of the body’s principal organs: each has a special place, yet remains connected to the body as a whole. In Mafatih al-Jinan, particular hours are attributed to the Imams (AS), indicating their special connection with those times.

Intercession means turning to the Infallibles (AS) as intermediaries in drawing near to God; it does not mean worshipping them. It is a beautiful way of connecting with God, a response to His command, and a sign of one’s worth and standing in the eyes of the Beloved. As those beloved by God, the Infallibles (AS) are means of grace, adornment, and drawing closer to Him.

In sacred places and in the presence of God’s friends, it is fitting to ask the Divine for lofty spiritual blessings. There is nothing wrong with asking for worldly things, such as a car, but it is better to bear God’s wisdom in mind and phrase the prayer accordingly—for example, “If it is in my best interests, grant it to me.”

To begin a business that is profitable and blessed, it is recommended to recite Supplications 6 and 33 from al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, offer salutations to the Prophet (PBUH), and recite the supplication “اللهم إنی أسألک بقوتک و قدرتک و بعزتک و ما أحاط به علمک أن تیسر لی من التجاره أوسعها رزقا و أعمها فضلا و خیرها عاقبه”. It is also beneficial to perform the prayer and recite the supplication “غدوت بحول الله و قوته...”

Frightening dreams in which demons appear, even after you have performed recommended acts of worship, may be a sign that your worship is having an effect and that Satan is trying to discourage you in this way. To counter this, continue your worship steadfastly and seek protection from Satan through supplications and specific spiritual practices. Reciting the seventeenth supplication of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, the Munajat al-Shakin (Whispered Prayer of the Complaining), the four Quls, Ayat al-Kursi, and certain Quranic verses may be helpful.

We can manage our inner inclinations through choice and free will, by seeking God’s guidance, and through supplication based on the Ṣaḥīfa Sajjadiyya. Supplication that combines knowledge and action can illuminate the way forward, helping us submit to God’s will and choose what He loves.

Before making du'a, perform wudu and sit facing the qibla. With a pure and tender heart, first speak privately with God. After expressing your love for Him a few times, begin your supplication.