Dhikr (ذِكْر) is the Islamic practice of remembering Allah through repeated phrases, supplications, and reflective worship. Learn its meaning, types, and spiritual benefits.
The Linguistic Meaning of Dhikr
The Arabic word dhikr (ذِكْر) comes from the root ذ-ك-ر, meaning to remember, mention, or recall. In Islamic terminology it refers to the act of consciously bringing Allah to mind — either through the tongue, the heart, or both together.
Types of Dhikr
Scholars divide dhikr into three forms: dhikr of the tongue (verbal recitation), dhikr of the heart (contemplation and awareness of Allah), and dhikr of the limbs (performing good deeds in obedience to Allah). The most complete dhikr combines all three.
The Quranic Command to Make Dhikr
Allah commands in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:41): "O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance." This verse, among dozens of others, establishes dhikr as a central pillar of the Muslim's daily life — not merely a supplement to prayer.
Benefits of Dhikr According to the Sunnah
The Prophet ﷺ described the one who remembers Allah and the one who does not like the living and the dead (Bukhari). Regular dhikr softens the heart, attracts divine mercy, wards off shaytan, and earns immense rewards — a single SubhanAllah plants a tree in Jannah.