Alternative Spelling:
Dhikr / Zikr / Dhiker / Ziker / Dhikhr
What is Dhikr?
- The term Dhikr refers to the devotional act of remembering and mentioning God, often through the repetition of specific phrases or names, with the word itself derived from the Arabic root dh-k-r, meaning "to remember" or "to mention."
- In Islamic theology, Dhikr holds profound significance as a means of strengthening one’s relationship with Allah, serving as a spiritual practice that purifies the heart and brings the believer closer to the Divine.
- Dhikr is practiced in various contexts, both individually and collectively, and can be performed silently or aloud, with common forms including the repetition of phrases such as SubhanAllah (Glory be to God), Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to God), and Allahu Akbar (God is the Greatest).
- The spiritual meaning of Dhikr lies in its ability to cultivate mindfulness and presence of God in everyday life, helping practitioners to maintain a constant awareness of the Divine and to foster inner tranquility and contentment.
- Practically, Dhikr can be incorporated into daily routines, such as after prayers, during moments of reflection, or while engaging in everyday tasks, making it an accessible and continuous form of worship that enhances spiritual well-being.
Examples of Dhikr
- Morning Remembrance: "After Fajr prayer, Muslims often recite Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah) as part of their Dhikr routine."
- Seeking Forgiveness: "When feeling remorseful, one may say Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah) repeatedly as Dhikr."
- Expressing Gratitude: "Upon receiving good news, a person might say Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah) in Dhikr."
- During Difficult Times: "In moments of distress, reciting La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah) serves as comforting Dhikr."
- Before Sleeping: "Many Muslims recite Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, and Allahu Akbar before going to bed as nightly Dhikr."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "The example of the one who remembers his Lord and the one who does not remember his Lord is like the living and the dead."
[Sahih al-Bukhari 6407] (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Shall I not inform you of the best of your deeds, and the purest of them with your Master, and the highest of them in your ranks, and better for you than spending gold and silver, and better for you than meeting your enemy and striking their necks and they strike your necks?" They said, "Of course." He said: "Dhikr of Allah."
[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3377] (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Allah says: 'I am as My servant thinks I am, and I am with him when he remembers Me. If he remembers Me to himself, I remember him to Myself; and if he remembers Me in an assembly, I remember him in an assembly better than it.'"
[Sahih al-Bukhari 7405] (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Dhikr
What does Dhikr mean in English?
It means remembrance, specifically the remembrance of Allah through words or phrases.
When should Muslims say Dhikr?
Muslims can say Dhikr at any time, but it is especially encouraged after prayers, in the morning and evening, and during moments of gratitude or difficulty.
What are common phrases used in Dhikr?
Common phrases include SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah), and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest).
Is Dhikr only done verbally?
No, Dhikr can be performed both verbally and silently in the heart, as the intention and mindfulness are most important.
What are the benefits of practicing Dhikr?
Practicing Dhikr brings spiritual peace, increases mindfulness of Allah, and is believed to earn blessings and forgiveness.
