What is Dhikr in Islam? Vital Worship for Your Faith
Have you ever wondered, what is dhikr in Islam? Oh, I love dhikr and I highly recommend it to anyone who is just embraced Islam. If you are a new muslim, or somebody who is learning about Islam and starting from scratch this practice will significantly boost your imaan (faith). It is the best way to begin increasing your closeness to Allah, you soon will see the difference that will make in your life when you practice it regularly. What’s more, dhikr is something you can do anywhere, at any time, no wudu is required, and it is very short and easy to remember.
What Is Dhikr in Islam – Understanding the Concept of Dhikr
The Arabic word “dhikr” literally translates to “remembrance” or “mention,” but its meaning extends far beyond linguistic definition. Dhikr is how we, Muslims, remember God by repeating set phrases or prayers. To truly appreciate what is dhikr in Islam, one must first learn the meaning and recite it with the good intentions.
The Quran highlights the importance of dhikr in numerous verses. Allah says:
“And establish prayer for My remembrance.” (Quran 20:14)
“Remember Me; I will remember you.”
It truly shows the importance of continuously remembering Allah is vital for every Muslim. It is easy to remember but heavy on the scale of good deeds on the Day of Judgment.
Pupular Dhikr Among Muslims
Understanding what is dhikr in Islam means learning the pronunciation as well as the meaning.
- SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
- Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah)
- Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
- Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah)
- La ilaha illallah (there is no deity worthy of worship or unconditional obedience except Allah)
- Subhanallahi wa Bihamdihi (Glory be to God, and praise be to Him)
- Subhanallahil Azeem (Glory be to Allah the Great)
The Benefits of Dhikr
The significance of dhikr in Islam cannot be overstated. Its benefits impact various aspects of your life. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Strengthening Iman (Faith)
Regular dhikr helps reinforce one’s belief in Allah and His attributes. Once I made it my daily routine I saw the difference when I got too busy and didn’t get the chance to fulfill it. This is very sad because this kind of worship can be done literally anywhere and anytime. But we disconnect and distract ourselves from chasing worldly things which is most likely something that is not good for us anyway.
2. Achieving Inner Peace
One of the most beautiful aspects I witnessed, is the peace and calmness that brings in my heart. The Quran states:
“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”
This verse encapsulates the calming effect it has on us, still, we don’t practice it to its fullest, knowing the benefits.
3. Forgiveness and Mercy
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever says, ‘SubhanAllahi wa bihamdihi’ a hundred times a day, will have his sins forgiven even if they are like the foam of the sea.”
Again, mentioning the importance of this worship is vital for our faith and getting closer to The One who created us. This highlights how dhikr serves as a means of seeking Allah’s forgiveness and mercy.
4. Protection from Evil
Dhikr protects against negative influences, both from physical and from thoughts that aren’t beneficial. Regular remembrance of Allah protects faith and guards against temptation, which is very important.
How to Incorporate Dhikr into Daily Life
For those beginning their journey with dhikr, it’s natural to wonder what is dhikr in Islam and how it can become part of daily life. I’m having flashbacks when I got my first tasbih as a gift. To be honest, at first I wasn’t aware of the importance and positive effect it can have on my life in general. When I started practicing it despite not knowing the benefits, I found my heart in such ease, Alhamdulillah.
Here are some practical tips to make dhikr a regular habit:.
1. After Namaz
After each of the five daily prayers, take a few moments to recite dhikr, such as saying “SubhanAllah” 33 times, “Alhamdulillah” 33 times, and “Allahu Akbar” 34 times.
3. During Daily Activities
I Incorporated dhikr into routine tasks like cooking, walking, cleaning, working out, driving etc… Silent or verbal remembrance during these moments can transform mundane activities into acts of worship.
4. Using a Tasbeeh or Counter
I used to use a tasbeeh (prayer beads) a lot, I’d take it with me on the bus to work, when I went for walk or before I fell asleep. Digital counters I like to use for example when I make intention to recite 500x alhamdulillah. This way is easier to keep track of dhikr, as you can come back to it later when ever you get chance.
Personal Reflections on Dhikr
Reflecting on my own journey, I can confidently say that understanding what is dhikr in Islam is very important if you are starting as a new muslim. This Practice can incredibly strengthen your faith when done with pure intention. You know from time to time I forget to engage in dhikr and feel so disappointed in myself because it’s for my own benefit. But still get caught up in daily tasks that make my mind so occupied with other things. However, is key to realize it and prioritize it, I’m sure you will notice positive changes like this soon:
- Increased Patience: Dhikr has taught me to pause and reflect, helping me respond to challenges with calmness and composure.
- Deeper Gratitude: Through phrases like “Alhamdulillah,” I’ve learned to appreciate the blessings in my life, big and small.
- Stronger Connection with Allah: Dhikr serves as a constant reminder of Allah’s presence, making me feel closer to Him.
Common Questions About Dhikr
1. Is there a specific time for dhikr?
While dhikr can be performed at any time, certain moments are of course better, like before Maghrib namaz, and during the last third of the night such as Tahajjud namaz time, right before Fajr.
2. Can women perform dhikr during menstruation?
Yes, women can engage in dhikr during menstruation, as it does not require physical purity like Salah or Quran recitation. This makes it a good practice because you might find yourself a bit more disconnected during menstruation, as I do sometimes. But dhikr is a good tool to keep you connected to your Creator.
3. Does dhikr require Arabic proficiency?
It is definitelly encouraged, because dhikr compared to any surah from the Quran is short to remember. While your pronunciation might not be accurate from the start it is the sincere intention that counts.
Dhikr in the Life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was a shining example of someone who consistently engaged in dhikr. His life demonstrates how remembrance of Allah can permeate every aspect of one’s existence. For instance:
- Before sleeping, he would recite specific dhikr.
- Ask for forgiveness minimum 100x a day.
- Upon waking, he would thank Allah for the gift of life.
- During times of hardship, he would turn to Allah through dhikr and supplication.
Conclusion
I think that the question of, what is dhikr in Islam has been answered. It was and still is a powerful tool for building up my iman, and strengthening my relationship with Allah. Whether performed silently or aloud, individually or in a group, dhikr is a timeless practice that nurtures the soul and draws believers closer to our Creator.
Without a doubt dhikr would be the second important islamic practice, after Namaz, I would love for each new muslim to engage in. This is a simple, beautiful act of worship that will do wonders in your life. My advice is – Start small, stay consistent, and keep your intentions clean!
May Allah guide us all in making dhikr an integral part of our daily routines. Ameen.
