Does Allah answer the dua of non-Muslims?
Yes, Allah can and does answer the dua of non-Muslims, especially someone who is desperate or treated unjustly. He hears everyone and provides for everyone. Many converts say their first sincere prayer to "God, if You're there" was what led them to Islam.
Allah answers the desperate
The Quran describes Allah as the One who responds to anyone in real need, without limiting it to believers.
The Quran also tells of people at sea who call on Allah sincerely when the waves rise, and He saves them, even though they go back to their old ways afterwards (Quran 29:65). Allah even granted Iblis's request to be given time until the Day of Judgement (Quran 7:14–15).
The dua of the oppressed
When the Prophet ﷺ sent Mu'adh to Yemen, he told him, "Beware of the dua of the oppressed, for there is no barrier between it and Allah" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1496). Scholars explain that this applies to anyone who is wronged, Muslim or not. Allah's justice is for everyone.
What's different for a Muslim?
Allah's answer in this world is part of His general mercy, which covers all people. The Quran says the calling of those who reject Him is lost (Quran 13:14), and scholars explain this as being about the Hereafter, or about calling on false gods. In other words, a non-Muslim may get what they asked for in this life, but the full reward of dua as worship is tied to faith.
For a Muslim, dua is itself an act of worship, and it never goes to waste: Allah either gives what was asked, removes a harm, or saves the reward for the Hereafter. If you're waiting for an answer, see Why isn't Allah answering my dua?
If you're not Muslim (yet)
You are welcome to talk to Allah right now, in your own language, in your own words. Ask Him for guidance, for clarity, for whatever you need. You don't need to be in a mosque or know any Arabic. See Can I pray with Muslims if I'm not Muslim yet?
And if you're a convert with family who aren't Muslim, you can make dua for them too, especially for their guidance. See Can I make dua for my non-Muslim family?
- Allah answers the desperate and the oppressed, whatever their religion.
- The dua of the oppressed has no barrier between it and Allah.
- For a Muslim, dua is also worship with reward in the Hereafter.
- Anyone can call on Allah sincerely, in any language.
People also ask
Can I make dua for the whole Ummah?
Yes, you can make dua for the whole Ummah. The Quran teaches it (59:10), and an angel prays the same good for you. Simple duas you can use.
Read the full answer →What is the dua for a good ending?
The dua for a good ending is "Ya Muqallib al-qulub, thabbit qalbi 'ala dinik", plus Yusuf's prayer to die as a Muslim (Quran 12:101).
Read the full answer →What is the dua for 'afiyah (well-being)?
The dua for 'afiyah is "Allahumma inni as'aluka al-'afiyah fid-dunya wal-akhirah", which the Prophet said every morning and evening.
Read the full answer →Can I make dua for something haram?
No, you shouldn't make dua for something haram; it isn't answered (Sahih Muslim 2735). Ask for the halal alternative or for something better.
Read the full answer →Are nasheeds a form of dhikr?
Nasheeds are not dhikr in the proper sense, though good ones can remind you of Allah. What counts as dhikr, and where nasheeds and instruments fit.
Read the full answer →