Question:

Is it permissible to pray to Allah to change the past i.e. to take one back in time. Is it possible the prayer can be answered?

Answer:

It is forbidden. The reason for this is because once something has occurred, and is normally unchangeable, to pray for the opposite is opposing the will of Allah taala and His Qaza. Rather, the attitude of the believer at this time should be to have faith and trust in Allah taala that whatever he has done, it is in his infinite mercy and wisdom and as such expect good from it. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: ".if something afflicts you do not say: 'if only I had done this or that,' rather say: 'Allah so decreed it and He did what He willed.' For verily, 'If only' gives way to the handiwork of Satan." (Muslim) Note, to pray against such events that have occurred, is much more than merely saying, 'if only.' Though, to say the later in lament or sorrow is permitted without any dislike. If however something has occurred that can still be changed, then it is allowed to pray for the change and sometimes it is praiseworthy.

Mufti Mohammed Sajjad

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The answer to this question is the opinion of the scholar and does not reflect the opinion of other scholars of As-Suffa Institute and As-Suffa Institute as an organisation.