dhikr
/ˈðɪk(ə)r
/(also zikr /ˈzɪk(ə)r/)
noun [mass noun] Islam
1A form of devotion, associated chiefly with Sufism, in which the worshipper is absorbed in the rhythmic repetition of the name of God or his attributes.The intensity and lack of small talk that those who met them remarked on in the hijackers probably derived from their silent, constant dhikr or repetition of sacred verses....
- It is for this reason that a distinction is made between other ritual acts of worship, and dhikr.
- The acts of worship like Salah, recitation of the Qur'an and dhikr should be performed in this night individually, not collectively.
1.1 [count noun] A Sufi ceremony in which dhikr is practised.Two experienced Sufi teachers from the U.S. will lead zikrs (chant circles) and sohbets (spiritual discussions), and help participants ruminate on ‘the role of spiritual community in today's world.’...
- Finally I found myself at a zikr (a remembrance) among 80 or so dervishes in a hidden tekke (religious house), and they began to chant, rhythmically, the name of Allah.
- Exorcism session is held in a dimly lit hall at the exorcist's house, and begins with a session of a zikr of the Qadri order (recitation of the name of Almighty Allah and verses praising the Holy Prophet (Pbuh).
Origin
From Arabic ḏikr 'remembrance'.