Day: October 5, 2024

■ Why is Dhikr Considered Superior?

Imam Al-Ghazali offers an insightful explanation to this question. He explains that the true benefit and power of Dhikr lie in its continuity and the presence of the heart. Dhikr, which is performed with constant remembrance and mindfulness, brings great spiritual benefit. However, if Dhikr is merely recited by the tongue while the heart is preoccupied with worldly distractions, its benefit is minimal.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“The example of the one who remembers their Lord and the one who does not is like that of the living and the dead.”

(Sahih Bukhari)

This illustrates that Dhikr infuses spiritual life into the heart, while heedlessness equates to spiritual death.

Imam Al-Ghazali further elaborates that even Dhikr performed with brief moments of heartfelt focus, followed by lapses into heedlessness due to worldly distractions, is less effective. The essence of Dhikr is not just in moving the tongue but in engaging the heart with the remembrance of Allah ﷻ. This connection is where the true benefit lies.

As Mawlana Rumi poetically expresses:

“What use is prayer on the lips, if the heart is elsewhere?”

The real power of Dhikr is in transforming one’s inner state, not merely through vocal recitation but through the constant awareness of Allah ﷻ.

May we be among those who engage in Dhikr with both our hearts and tongues, seeking the divine closeness that comes through constant remembrance.