Dhikr is a term used in Islam to refer to the remembrance of Allah, the Supreme Being. It is an act of devotion and worship that involves the repetition of certain phrases or prayers, usually in a specific manner and with a specific intention. Dhikr is an important aspect of Islamic spirituality and is considered a means of achieving closeness to Allah.
The word dhikr comes from the Arabic root word "dhakara", which means to remember or mention. In Islamic tradition, dhikr is seen as a way of remembering Allah and seeking His blessings and guidance. It is a means of expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and seeking protection from evil.
There are many forms of dhikr in Islam, each with its own set of phrases or prayers. Some of the most commonly recited forms of dhikr include the following:
Tasbih - this involves reciting the phrase "Subhan Allah" (Glory be to Allah) 33 times, followed by the phrase "Alhamdulillah" (Praise be to Allah) 33 times, and the phrase "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest) 33 times.
Tahmid - this involves reciting the phrase "Alhamdulillah" (Praise be to Allah) repeatedly.
Takbir - this involves reciting the phrase "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest) repeatedly.
Tahlil - this involves reciting the phrase "La ilaha illa Allah" (There is no deity except Allah) repeatedly.
Istighfar - this involves reciting phrases seeking forgiveness from Allah, such as "Astaghfirullah" (I seek forgiveness from Allah).
Dhikr can be performed individually or in groups, and can be done in any place and at any time. It is often performed after the daily prayers or during other times of the day when Muslims seek to remember Allah and seek His guidance and blessings.
Dhikr is considered a highly rewarding act of worship in Islam. It is believed to bring peace and tranquility to the heart, increase one's faith and love for Allah, and purify the soul. It is also believed to have numerous physical and spiritual benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving mental clarity and focus, and strengthening one's connection to Allah.
In conclusion, dhikr is an important aspect of Islamic spirituality that involves the remembrance of Allah through the repetition of specific phrases or prayers. It is a means of seeking closeness to Allah, expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and seeking protection from evil. Dhikr can be performed individually or in groups, and is considered a highly rewarding act of worship in Islam.
