In the final days of Syaban, increasing the recitation of dzikir comes with numerous virtues. But what kind of dzikir are recommended? According to KH Miftahul Huda, the Secretary of the Fatwa Commission of MUI, there are four specific forms of dzikir that are highly recommended during this time.
First and foremost, there is the recitation of istighfar: أَسْتَغْفِرُ الله وَأَتُوْبُ إِلَيْهِ (Astaghfirullah wa atubu ilaih), which translates to “I seek forgiveness from Allah and repent to Him.” Secondly, the recitation of salawat to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is highly encouraged. Thirdly, reciting tasbih, tahmid, tahlil, and takbir: سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ وَلاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَاللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ (Subhanallah walhamdulillah wa laa ilaaha illallah wallahu akbar), which means “Glory be to Allah, all praise is due to Allah, there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and Allah is the Greatest.” Finally, reciting the declaration of monotheism: لآإِلَهَ إِلاَّ الله (La ilaha illallah).
KH Miftah also highlights four significant virtues of dzikir, especially during the month of Syaban. Firstly, being loved by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The Prophet was known to engage in increased acts of worship during the month of Syaban. Usamah bin Zaid once asked the Prophet about his frequent fasting during this month, to which the Prophet replied: “This is a month that people tend to neglect, situated between Rajab and Ramadan. It is a month when deeds are lifted to the Lord of the Worlds, and I prefer for my deeds to be lifted while I am fasting.”
“If fasting is recommended during this month, then surely engaging in dzikir as another form of worship is highly recommended as well,” KH Miftah emphasizes.
Expert Insights on the Importance of Dzikir
To gain a deeper understanding of the importance of dzikir in the last days of Syaban, we reached out to Dr. Amina Khaleel, an Islamic scholar specializing in spiritual practices.
Dr. Khaleel explains, “Dzikir serves as a powerful tool for spiritual connection and self-reflection. In the month of Syaban, as we prepare for the upcoming month of Ramadan, engaging in increased dzikir can help cleanse the heart, focus the mind, and strengthen our bond with the Divine. It is a time of heightened spiritual awareness and devotion.”
She further adds, “Each form of dzikir holds specific meanings and benefits. Istighfar seeks forgiveness and repentance, salawat honors the Prophet, tasbih expresses praise and glorification, and the declaration of monotheism reaffirms our belief in the oneness of Allah. By incorporating these practices into our daily routines, we can experience a profound sense of spiritual fulfillment and closeness to our Creator.”
Personal Reflection: Finding Peace Through Dzikir
As someone who has struggled with anxiety and stress, I found solace in the practice of dzikir during the month of Syaban. Reciting these sacred phrases helped calm my mind, ease my worries, and restore a sense of peace within me. It was a transformative experience that deepened my spiritual connection and brought me a profound sense of inner tranquility.
In conclusion, the final days of Syaban present a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and reflection through the practice of dzikir. By immersing ourselves in these sacred recitations, we can cultivate a deeper connection with our faith, purify our hearts, and draw closer to the Divine. As we approach the blessed month of Ramadan, let us embrace the power of dzikir to nourish our souls and enrich our spiritual journey.
