What is adkhar?

Adhkar, also known as dhikr, is the act of remembering Allah through reciting specific phrases, verses, and prayers. It is an integral part of Islamic practice and is often performed after prayers, during the day, and before sleep. Adhkar has numerous benefits, both spiritual and physical, and it is essential to understand the importance of incorporating adhkar into our daily lives.

Firstly, adhkar helps to strengthen the connection between the believer and Allah. It is a form of worship that reminds us of Allah's presence and provides a sense of comfort and reassurance. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of adhkar and recommended it to his followers. He said, "The example of the one who remembers his Lord and the one who does not remember Him is like that of the living and the dead" (Bukhari).

Furthermore, adhkar helps to purify the heart and strengthen faith. It is a means of seeking forgiveness and repentance for sins and mistakes, and it reminds us of the importance of gratitude and humility. The constant remembrance of Allah helps to keep us mindful of our purpose and the importance of fulfilling our obligations as Muslims.

Moreover, adhkar has physical benefits as well. Reciting certain adhkar, such as the morning and evening remembrance, can protect us from harm and increase our physical well-being. The Prophet ﷺ said, "Whoever recites three times in the morning and evening, 'Bismillahil-ladhi la yadurru ma'asmihi shay'un fil-ardhi wa la fis-sama'i, wa Huwas-Sami'ul-'Alim (In the Name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All-Knowing),' nothing will harm him" (Tirmidhi).

Adhkar also has mental health benefits. The act of reciting adhkar helps to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. It provides a sense of peace and tranquility, and the repetition of specific phrases helps to focus the mind and clear any negative thoughts. Additionally, adhkar can help to increase mindfulness and awareness, improving our overall mental well-being.

In addition to these benefits, adhkar also helps to strengthen relationships with others. The act of remembering Allah helps to remind us of the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. The Prophet ﷺ said, "The merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth and the One in the heavens will have mercy upon you" (Tirmidhi).

Moreover, adhkar can serve as a means of giving charity and helping others. The Prophet ﷺ said, "Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status" (Muslim). Reciting adhkar and seeking Allah's forgiveness can also serve as a means of atonement for any harm we may have caused to others, allowing us to make amends and seek forgiveness.

In conclusion, adhkar is an essential part of Islamic practice that provides numerous benefits, both spiritual and physical. The act of remembering Allah through reciting specific phrases, verses, and prayers helps to strengthen the connection between the believer and Allah, purify the heart, and increase faith. Adhkar also has physical and mental health benefits, and it can strengthen relationships with others and serve as a means of giving charity and seeking forgiveness. As Muslims, we should strive to incorporate adhkar into our daily lives, seeking the blessings and benefits that it remembering Allah TheAlmighty brings.