The proper way to make du’a is in a subdued voice, as Allah tells us:
“Call upon your Lord with humility, and in secret.” (Surah al-A’raf:55)
This is why Allah praised the du’a of Zakaraiya when He described it as being secret:
“When he made a du’a to his Lord in secret (or privately).” (Surah Maryam:3)
This principle is also mentioned in hadith. The Prophet peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:
“O people! Be gentle on yourselves, for you are not calling someone who is deaf or absent. Rather you are calling the One Who hears everything, Ever-Close.” (Recorded in al-Bukhari)
Shaykh al-Islam ibn Taymiyyah, also mentioned a number of benefits of making du’a silently in his work Majmu al-Fatawa which are as follows:
- It is a sign of strong imaan, as it demonstrates that we firmly believe Allah can hear even the quietest of prayers.
- It is a sign of respect and manners in front of Allah, for us to lower our voices.
- It is a sign of humility and humbleness, which is the essence of worship.
- It is a means of achieving sincerity, since you will not draw the attention of others.
- It aids the heart on concentrating on the du’a.
- It shows a closeness that the true believer feels for their Creator, and is a means of strengthening the close relationship between ourselves and Allah.
- It is easier on the tongue and body and therefore aids us in extending our du’a to Allah.
- It causes less distraction to others.
- It prevents a person form the the target of envy and jealousy.