Date: 22 March 2025

Introduction

Dhikr, or the remembrance of Allah, is one of the easiest yet most rewarding acts of worship. It brings peace to the heart, strengthens faith, and keeps us mindful of Allah’s presence in our lives. On this twenty-second day of Ramadan, let’s explore the virtues of dhikr and practical ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.

1. The Significance of Dhikr in Islam

The Qur’an emphasises the importance of remembering Allah:

“...And the remembrance of Allah is greater.”
(Qur’an 29:45)

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said:

“The comparison of the one who remembers Allah and the one who does not remember Allah is like that of the living and the dead.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

2. Benefits of Dhikr

A. Spiritual Benefits

• Strengthens your connection with Allah and deepens your taqwa.
• Purifies the heart and shields it from sinful thoughts.
• Brings tranquillity, as mentioned in the Qur’an:

  “Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”
  (Qur’an 13:28)

B. Multiplying Rewards in Ramadan

• Each utterance of dhikr is rewarded manifold during this blessed month.

3. Recommended Forms of Dhikr

A. Simple Phrases of Remembrance

• SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
• Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah)
• Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
• La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah)

B. Istighfar (Seeking Forgiveness)

• Recite Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah) frequently to cleanse your heart and seek Allah’s mercy.

C. Salawat (Sending Blessings on the Prophet)

• Recite Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala aali Muhammad to strengthen your love for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

4. Practical Ways to Incorporate Dhikr

A. Make It a Daily Habit

• Set aside specific times, such as after salah or while commuting, for dedicated dhikr.

B. Use Tasbih or Counters

• Use prayer beads or digital counters to keep track of your dhikr repetitions.

C. Reflect During Dhikr

• Focus on the meaning of the phrases you’re reciting to deepen your connection with Allah.

D. Involve Your Family

• Encourage children and family members to engage in dhikr, turning it into a shared act of worship.

5. The Rewards of Consistency

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“Shall I not inform you of the best of your deeds, the purest to your King, and the highest in your ranks, and better for you than spending gold and silver?” They said, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘The remembrance of Allah.’”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)

Conclusion

Dhikr is a simple yet transformative practice that brings immense rewards and spiritual benefits, especially in Ramadan. On this twenty-second day, let’s commit to reviving the Sunnah of dhikr and making it an integral part of our worship, both during this blessed month and beyond.