Title: Regarding Dhikr Question: What is Zikar ? Is their any Ism e Azam . Is combined and loudly Zikar OK or are there any reservations on it? What is the best way of doing Allah Ka Zikar . Is their any authentic book available on Zikar and its benefits in Urdu or English? Please explain in detail all the possible aspects, which even I have missed in my question Awais Aslam Answer: Dhirk actually means remembrance. In its customary usage, it refers to remembrance of God. Some people are of the opinion that the word 'Allah' is the personal name of God, rather than an attributive name. Those who ascribe to the stated opinion, call 'Allah' the Ism e Azam (the biggest name). Dhikr is practiced among some Muslim by continuously repeating the word 'Allah' or any one of the other attributes of God. This practice neither makes any sense nor is authorized by the Prophet (pbuh). Therefore, I do not consider it to be correct. We should call upon God through meaningful sentences like 'Al-hamdulillah' , 'SubhaanAllah' , 'Allah Akbar' etc. Each of these sentences has a meaning and, if that meaning is kept in one's mind, it reminds us of our relationship with our Creator. The Prophet is also reported to have taught Muslims to remember God with such words. You may look for books of compilation of the various supplications of the Prophet (pbuh). These supplications of the Prophet (pbuh) are an excellent example of the Prophet's continual remembrance of God. The best Dhikr is the continual remembrance of God through deliberation over His creations as well as over His attributes, through calling upon Him night and day (in whichever language one can), through reciting His revelations, through falling in prostration in front of Him, through seeking His forgiveness and mercy, through praising Him and being thankful for His blessings and through placing our firm trust and reliance in Him. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad October 18, 2001