Shikr

Shikr is a transliteration of the Arabic term dhikr (ذكر), meaning remembrance or mention. In Islamic devotional language, dhikr refers to the remembrance of God through repeated utterance, reflection, and awareness. The spelling shikr appears in some texts or languages as an alternative to the standard dhikr or zikr.

Practices vary but commonly involve silent or vocal repetition of prayers and names of God, such as Allah, La ilaha illallah (There is no deity but God), and other short phrases like Subhanallah or Alhamdulillah. It may be performed individually or in groups. Beads such as tasbih or counter threads are sometimes used to keep track of repetitions. In some Sufi orders, zikr rituals include rhythmic chanting, breath work, or choreographed movements, and occasionally music; the form and acceptability of musical accompaniment vary by tradition.

Historically, dhikr is described in Qur’an verses and Hadith as a means of maintaining mindfulness of God. It remains central in Sufi spirituality, where it is often practiced as a regular devotional routine or as part of longer meditative sessions. Sunni and Shia traditions include dhikr, though emphasis and methods differ across schools and communities.

Regional usage: In many Muslim-majority cultures, zikr or dhikr is integrated into daily devotional life, prayer gatherings, and Sufi lodges. It is typically presented as a means to purify the heart, strengthen faith, and cultivate gratitude and humility.

Shikr/dhikr is generally viewed as a recommended, voluntary practice rather than a compulsory act of worship. It is intended to deepen awareness of God, complement other forms of worship, and foster spiritual focus.