Manners to Perform Islamic Dhikr & Their Importance in Islam
One of the most profound ways we connect with Allah is through Dhikr—remembrance.
Why focus so much on the etiquette?
Dhikr, when done correctly, isn’t just about the repetition of divine phrases; it’s about the presence of the heart, a mindful connection that each word is a step closer to the divine.
In this blog post, I have discussed the importance of manners in Islam, the 5 best manners of dhikr, and how to practice those manners along with the don’ts of manners.
So that you can reflect on and refine your Dhikr practices to enhance their effectiveness and your spiritual well-being.
Importance of Islamic Manners (Adab) in Islam
Many think you need the perfect place and time for spiritual practices, but Dhikr can fit into any part of your day.
I’ll introduce you to the significance of manners in Dhikr, illustrating through the Quran and sunnah how each practice can enhance your spiritual journey and personal peace.
Exploring the significance and examples of proper manners in Dhikr helps you embrace a practice that enhances your spiritual well-being and brings you closer to achieving inner tranquility.
In Islam, “Adab” represents more than just manners; it embodies the etiquette of the soul, the refinement of the heart, and the conduct that Allah favors.
The Quran and Sunnah provide compelling directives on the significance of good manners.
For instance Allah says in Quran:
ٱدْعُوا۟ رَبَّكُمْ تَضَرُّعًۭا وَخُفْيَةً ۚ إِنَّهُۥ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلْمُعْتَدِينَ ٥٥
Transliteration: OdAAoo rabbakum tadarruAAanwakhufyatan innahu la yuhibbu almuAAtadeen
Translation: Call upon your Lord humbly and secretly. Surely He does not like the transgressors.
Source: https://quran.com/7/55
From the Hadith, we learn directly about the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) views on manners.
Narrated Masruq:
Abdullah bin ‘Amr mentioned Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) saying that he was neither a Fahish nor a Mutafahish. Abdullah bin ‘Amr added, that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, ‘The best among you are those who have the best manners and character.’
Source: https://sunnah.com/bukhari:6029
This practice, grounded in Adab, not only enhances your spiritual life but also nurtures a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.
Practicing proper manners in Dhikr not only deepens your spiritual connection but ensures your actions reflect prophetic teachings.
Next, we’ll explore “5 Best Manners Relevant to Dhikr in Islam,” providing practical tips to elevate your spiritual journey.
5 Best Manners Relevant to Dhikr in Islam
How often do you consider the depth of your spiritual practices and their alignment with prophetic teachings?
Let me guide you through how these manners can transform your daily Dhikr, such as sincerity, humility, privacy, voice, and purity, making each session a pathway to greater spiritual clarity and peace.
Understanding these manners isn’t just about improving your Dhikr; it’s about transforming every moment of remembrance into a profound connection with Allah, enhancing your peace and spirituality.
1. Sincerity & Intentions — The foundation of any act of worship in Islam, including Dhikr, is sincerity.
Umar bin Al Khattab reported the Apostle of Allah(ﷺ) as saying:
Actions are to be judged only by intentions and a man will have only what he intended.
Source: https://sunnah.com/abudawud:2201
When engaging in Dhikr, ensure your heart is set on remembering Allah purely for His sake, not for show or self-satisfaction.
This purity in intention aligns your soul with its Creator, elevating your spiritual experience.
2. State of Purity (Taharah) — Engaging in Dhikr, the remembrance of Allah, is not only a spiritual practice but also one that benefits from physical purity.
According to various Islamic schools of thought, including the Shafi’i, being in a state of Taharah (purity) through Wudu (ablution) is highly recommended when performing Dhikr.
This verse underscores the importance of cleanliness in our acts of worship, which by extension, applies to Dhikr, enhancing the spiritual connection and reverence during the act.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the significance of cleanliness in spiritual practices, as narrated in Sahih Muslim:
Abu Malik Al-Ash’ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
“Purification is half the Iman.”
Source: https://sunnah.com/riyadussalihin:1031
Incorporating Wudu before Dhikr not only adheres to the prophetic teachings but also prepares the mind and soul for a deeper spiritual engagement, making each moment of remembrance more focused and meaningful.
3. Humility & Respectfulness — Humility is a prized virtue in Islam.
When performing Dhikr, do so with humility and respect, acknowledging your dependence on Allah.
In Quran Allah says:
وَٱذْكُر رَّبَّكَ فِى نَفْسِكَ تَضَرُّعًۭا وَخِيفَةًۭ وَدُونَ ٱلْجَهْرِ مِنَ ٱلْقَوْلِ بِٱلْغُدُوِّ وَٱلْـَٔاصَالِ وَلَا تَكُن مِّنَ ٱلْغَـٰفِلِينَ ٢٠٥
Translation: Remember your Lord inwardly with humility and reverence and in a moderate tone of voice, both morning and evening. And do not be one of the heedless.
Source: https://quran.com/7/205
This verse teaches us to approach Dhikr and all acts of worship with a humble spirit.
4. Privacy & Modesty — The Prophet ﷺ said, “Modesty (haya) is from faith (iman).
Dhikr is often most impactful when done in privacy, allowing for a deeper personal connection with Allah.
It was narrated from ‘Uqbah bin ‘Amir that the Messenger of Allah said:
The one who recites the Qur’an loudly is like one who gives charity openly, and the one who recites the Qur’an quietly is like one who gives charity in secret.
Source: https://sunnah.com/nasai:2561
By maintaining modesty and discretion in your Dhikr, you cultivate an environment of sincerity and concentration.
5. Voice & Speech — During Dhikr, it is important to modulate your voice to a level that is reflective and respectful.
In Quran Allah says:
قُلِ ٱدْعُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ أَوِ ٱدْعُوا۟ ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنَ ۖ أَيًّۭا مَّا تَدْعُوا۟ فَلَهُ ٱلْأَسْمَآءُ ٱلْحُسْنَىٰ ۚ وَلَا تَجْهَرْ بِصَلَاتِكَ وَلَا تُخَافِتْ بِهَا وَٱبْتَغِ بَيْنَ ذَٰلِكَ سَبِيلًۭا ١١٠
Translation: Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “Call upon Allah or call upon the Most Compassionate—whichever you call, He has the Most Beautiful Names.” Do not recite your prayers too loudly or silently, but seek a way between.
Source: https://quran.com/17/110
Avoid loudness and exaggeration, focusing instead on the meaning and beauty of the words.
Abu Qatadah narrated that: The Prophet (S) said to Abu Bakr:
“I passed by you while you were reciting and your voice was low.” He said: “I let He who, I was consulting hear.” He said: “Raise your voice.” Then he said to Umar: “I passed by while you were reciting and your voice was loud.” So he said: “I repel drowsiness and keep Ash-Shaitan away.” So he said: “Lower your voice.”
Source: https://sunnah.com/tirmidhi:447
These manners directly enhance the essence of Dhikr, ensuring it’s performed with the depth and respect outlined in Islamic teachings.
Begin by enhancing sincerity in your intentions and gradually add more manners.
Up next, we’ll tackle “3. How to Practically Apply Manners in Dhikr Sessions?” to give you actionable steps for incorporating these manners daily.
How to Practically Apply Manners in Dhikr Sessions?
Many people unknowingly compromise the spiritual benefits of Dhikr by not applying it practically.
Let me show you how to maintain focus such as choosing suitable times, having appropriate posture, maintaining posture & adapting a balanced pace so each word resonates deeply within you.
Practicing Dhikr with these manners is essential for ensuring that your efforts are not just habitual, but truly enriching your spiritual and emotional well-being.
1. Choosing Suitable Times and Environments — Find moments and places that lend themselves to tranquility and reflection.
Early mornings or after obligatory prayers are highly effective times as your mind is clear and your heart is more receptive. Seek out a quiet, clean space where interruptions are minimal.
This setting helps in cultivating an environment where your soul can immerse itself fully in the remembrance of Allah.
2. Appropriate Posture — Physical posture can influence your spiritual state.
Sit in a comfortable position, facing the Qibla if possible, as this aligns you physically and spiritually towards the Kaaba, the sacred house of Allah.
Ensure your posture reflects respect and attentiveness as if you are in the presence of the Divine.
3. Maintaining Focus and Humility — Dhikr should be performed with a heart full of humility and focus.
Keep your heart engaged by understanding the meanings of the phrases you recite.
Remind yourself that with each repetition, you are not just moving your lips but also calling out to your Creator, seeking closeness and mercy.
4. Adopting a Balanced Pace — The rhythm of your Dhikr should neither be rushed nor excessively slow.
It needs to be steady and reflective, allowing you to meditate on each word and feel its impact.
This balanced pace helps in maintaining focus and truly living the words you utter, deepening your spiritual connection.
Applying these manners in Dhikr enhances your spiritual engagement, ensuring it transcends routine to become a profound act of worship.
Reflect on your Dhikr practices and aim to improve one aspect this week, observing the deeper connection it fosters with your spirituality.
Moving forward, we will explore “Why These Manners Matter in Performing Dhikr?” to understand the profound impact these practices have on our connection to Allah and overall spiritual well-being.
Why Do These Manners Matter in Performing Dhikr?
Do you truly feel connected to Allah during Dhikr, or does it sometimes feel like you’re just going through the motions?
I’ll show you how each manner directly impacts your spiritual life by building connection, enhancing mindfulness, making closer relationship with Allah & preservation of tradition bringing you closer to Allah with every act of remembrance.
Embracing these Dhikr manners deepens your spiritual connection, enhancing not just your moments of prayer but also bringing a sense of peace and presence in daily life.
1. Spiritual Connection — Think of Dhikr like a phone call to Allah.
The better the ‘reception’—achieved through sincerity and following prophetic manners—the more profound the connection.
In Quran Allah Says:
ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَتَطْمَئِنُّ قُلُوبُهُم بِذِكْرِ ٱللَّهِ ۗ أَلَا بِذِكْرِ ٱللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ ٱلْقُلُوبُ ٢٨
Transliteration: Allatheena amanoo watatma-innuquloobuhum bithikri Allahi ala bithikriAllahi tatma-innu alquloob
Translation: Those who believe, and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah: for without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction.
Source: https://quran.com/13/28
This verse reminds us that our remembrance should be mindful and respectful, as it’s a reciprocal relationship.
2. Enhanced Mindfulness — Maintaining proper manners in Dhikr helps us stay focused and present.
It’s akin to tuning an instrument before a performance, preparing your heart and mind to harmonize beautifully.
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “The Mufarridun have gone ahead.” He was asked, “Who are the Mufarridun?” He (ﷺ) replied, “Those men and women who frequently celebrate the remembrance of Allah.” [Muslim].
Source: https://sunnah.com/riyadussalihin:1436
This highlights the importance of constant and conscious remembrance.
3. Closer Relationship with Allah — Adhering to these manners shows profound respect, much like honoring a valued guest.
Abu Huraira reported God’s messenger as stating that God says,
“I am present when my servant thinks of me, and I am with him when he remembers me. If he remembers me inwardly I shall remember him inwardly, and if he remembers me among people I shall remember him among people who are better than they.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)
Source: https://sunnah.com/mishkat:2264
Each act of respect in your Dhikr brings you closer to Allah, deepening your spiritual connection.
4. Preservation of Tradition — Following these manners is not only about personal spirituality; it’s about preserving a sacred tradition that dates back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
He taught us not just what to say but how to say it, maintaining the purity and authenticity of our practices through generations.
5. Positive Communal Impact — When everyone in a gathering observes these manners, it uplifts the whole group, much like an orchestra in perfect harmony.
It was narrated that Abu Hurairah and Abu Sa’eed bore witness that the Prophet(ﷺ) said:
“No people sit in a gathering remembering Allah, But the angels surround them, mercy covers them, tranquility descends upon them and Allah remembers them before those who are with Him.
Source: https://sunnah.com/ibnmajah:3791
Adopting the right manners in Dhikr enriches your spiritual practice, creating deeper connections with Allah.
Next, we will cover “5. The Don’ts of Manners for Dhikr,” identifying key behaviors to avoid to ensure your Dhikr remains pure and effective.
The Don’ts of Manners for Dhikr in Islam
It’s easy to let small mistakes slip into our Dhikr routine, each one steering us subtly away from the true essence of connection.
I’ll guide you through understanding and correcting common Dhikr mistakes such as showiness, overburdening, distaractions helping you enhance both the quality and impact of your spiritual practice.
Avoiding these common mistakes in Dhikr ensures that your practice remains sincere and spiritually rewarding, enhancing your daily peace and mindfulness.
Let’s talk about these ‘don’ts’ in a way that’s supportive and aimed at enhancing your Dhikr experience:
1. Avoiding Showiness: Dhikr should be an intimate conversation between you and Allah, not a performance for others.
Jundub reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:
He who wants to publicise (his deeds), Allah will publicise (his humility), and he who makes a hypocritical display (of his deeds), Allah will make a display of him.
Source: https://sunnah.com/muslim:2987a
Keep your acts of remembrance humble and personal, avoiding the temptation to show off your spirituality.
2. Not Overburdening Oneself: Setting unrealistic spiritual goals can lead to frustration and spiritual burnout.
It’s important to remember that Islam encourages moderation.
Narrated Abu Huraira:
Source: https://sunnah.com/bukhari:39
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, the afternoons, and during the last hours of the nights.” (See Fath-ul-Bari, Page 102, Vol 1).
Start with manageable amounts of Dhikr and gradually increase as you feel more comfortable.
3. Distractions: Choose a setting for Dhikr that minimizes interruptions and noise.
A calm environment enhances concentration and helps deepen your connection with Allah.
This aligns with the advice of finding quiet moments for worship, as distractions can significantly diminish the quality of your spiritual practice.
4. Rushing Through Dhikr: The key to effective Dhikr is mindfulness and reflection.
Rushing through prayers or Dhikr sessions reduces their impact.
Take your time to articulate and reflect on each phrase, ensuring your heart is as engaged as your tongue.
This careful attention to each word enriches your spiritual experience and ensures the sincerity of your worship.
5. Neglecting Correct Pronunciation: Pronouncing Dhikr correctly is crucial as it retains the meaning and enhances the spiritual benefits.
Mispronunciation can alter meanings and reduce the efficacy of your prayers.
💡 Tip: While it’s important to observe the correct forms, your focus should primarily be on connecting with Allah. Don’t get too caught up in the mechanics that you lose the essence of Dhikr—which is to remember and glorify Allah with a present heart and mind.
If unsure, seek guidance to perfect your pronunciation; this effort is seen as part of your devotion and striving in the path of Allah.
Neglecting the ‘don’ts’ of Dhikr can dilute its spiritual benefits. It’s crucial to maintain sincerity and focus in your practice to fully experience its transformative potential.
Examine your Dhikr habits and actively work to refine them. Eliminate any distractions or incorrect practices that may hinder your spiritual engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Can I Incorporate Dhikr Into My Daily Routine Despite a Busy Schedule?
Look for small opportunities throughout your day, like during your commute or while waiting for your coffee. Consistent, brief moments of dhikr can be deeply impactful.
2. Are There Any Specific Postures Recommended for Dhikr?
Dhikr can be performed in any position, but sitting quietly, possibly facing the Qibla, helps maintain focus. The key is the engagement of your heart more than your physical posture.
3. What Should I Avoid Doing During Dhikr to Maintain Its Purity and Effectiveness?
Keep your dhikr sincere and private, avoid distractions, and don’t rush. Mindful recitation enhances the purity and depth of your spiritual connection.
Conclusion
As we’ve explored together, the manners associated with Dhikr are not merely ritualistic formalities but essential elements that enrich our spiritual connection with Allah.
By embracing these practices, we cultivate a deeper, more meaningful dialogue with our Creator, transforming simple acts of remembrance into profound spiritual engagements.
I encourage you to review and refine your Dhikr practices.
Consider the purity of your intentions, the focus of your mind, and the humility in your heart as you remember Allah.
This is not just about enhancing our spiritual practices but about transforming them into a source of immense peace and spiritual fulfillment.
