ٱتْلُ مَآ أُوحِىَ إِلَيْكَ مِنَ ٱلْكِتَـٰبِ وَأَقِمِ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ ۖ إِنَّ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ تَنْهَىٰ عَنِ ٱلْفَحْشَآءِ وَٱلْمُنكَرِ ۗ وَلَذِكْرُ ٱللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ مَا تَصْنَعُونَ
“Recite what is revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.” (Quran 29:45)
The blessed month of Ramadan is upon us. It is a time for fasting, prayer, reflection, and purification of the soul. One way to unlock the spiritual benefits of Ramadan is through the practice of wazaif and adhkar.
Wazaif and adhkar are two important concepts in Islamic spirituality. Wazaif, the plural of wazifa, refer to a collection of specific supplications, recitations, and prayers that Muslims recite for particular rewards or results.
On the other hand, adhkar, the plural of dhikr, is the remembrance of Allah by reciting specific phrases, verses, or prayers. The two are often intertwined as Muslims recite Dhikr as a Wazifa to recount Allah’s greatness and beseech his favor.
The Holy month of Ramadan is an opportunity for Muslims to strengthen their faith and spirituality, and thus, wazaif and adhkar become even more critical during this time. During Ramadan, these supplications can bring us closer to Allah, increase our devoutness, and reinforce our belief in the mercy of Allah.
ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَتَطْمَئِنُّ قُلُوبُهُم بِذِكْرِ ٱللَّهِ ۗ أَلَا بِذِكْرِ ٱللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ ٱلْقُلُوبُ
“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Quran 13:28)
Wazaif and adhkar can help us achieve fulfillment in many ways; they are a reminder of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and His countless blessings, and they help us focus on the spiritual dimension of the existence of this world. In addition, they provide us with a sense of connection with our religion, instill discipline and self-control in us, and make us conscious of our efforts to become better Muslims.
During Ramadan, supplications and dhikr become even more critical as Muslims seek to deepen their connection with Allah and become more spiritually attuned. By incorporating wazaif and adhkar into our daily routines, we can better understand our faith and experience the benefits of a more spiritually fulfilling life.
Let’s understand the concept of wazaif and adhkar and how we can include these in our prayers during Ramadan to attain a higher level of spirituality.
Understanding the Concept of Wazifa
Wazifa refers to specific supplications, recitations, and prayers Muslims recite for particular benefits or rewards. These can include reciting specific verses from the Quran, prayers taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), or supplications made by the companions of the Prophet.
In addition, Wazaif are often recited in a specific order or sequence and is intended to bring spiritual and material benefits to the individual who recites them. An example of Wazaif is the Dua of Istikhara. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught his companions the dua of Istikhara, which is recited before making an important decision to seek guidance from Allah.
Types of Wazaif
There are different types of Wazaif that Muslims may choose to recite, including Qur’anic Wazaif, Prophetic Wazaif, and Wazaif from the Sahaba (companions of the Prophet).
- Qur’anic Wazaif refers to specific verses or Surahs of the Quran that are recited for particular benefits, such as Surah Al-Fatihah for seeking Allah’s guidance or Ayatul Kursi for protection.
- Prophetic Wazaif are prayers taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) that Muslims may recite for various purposes, such as the morning and evening duas or the prayer for seeking Allah’s forgiveness (Astaghfirullah).
- Wazaif from the Sahaba are supplications made by the Prophet’s companions and are believed to carry spiritual and material benefits. Examples include the Dua of Abu Bakr Siddiq (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) for seeking Allah’s forgiveness or the Dua of Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ) for protection.
Significance Of Reciting Wazaif During Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims strive to strengthen their faith and spiritual connection with Allah. Reciting Wazaif during Ramadan can help in achieving these goals.
Reciting Wazaif can help Muslims develop a deeper spiritual connection with Allah, which is especially important during Ramadan. It is the month when our feelings and beliefs are amplified, and there is a higher chance of getting closer to Allah.
In addition, reciting Wazaif during Ramadan can bring us blessings and rewards from Allah and may increase our chances of having our prayers answered. The rewards are also multiplied seventy times during this Holy month.
Consistently reciting Wazaif requires a certain level of commitment and self-discipline. These traits are particularly important during Ramadan, when Muslims fast and abstain from sins for a month.
Furthermore, wazaif require focus and concentration, which can help us become more mindful and present in our daily lives. By choosing to recite specific Wazaif during Ramadan, we can achieve spiritual fulfillment and experience the blessings of this holy month.
Understanding the Concept of Dhikr
Adhkar, or Dhikr, means remembering Allah through specific phrases, prayers, and supplications. Adhkar can take various forms, including recitation of the Quran, repetition of specific phrases (such as SubhanAllah or Alhamdulillah), and recitation of specific prayers taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Types of Adhkar
There are various types of Adhkar that Muslims can recite, for instance:
- Tasbih: The repetition of specific phrases, such as SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest). The 99 names of Allah are also included in tasbih, such as Ya Hafizo (O! Guardian), Ya Salamo (O! One who is free from all defects and loss), etc.
- Salawat: The recitation of prayers for sending blessings on the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), such as Allahumma salli ala Muhammadin wa ala aali Muhammad (O Allah, send peace and blessings upon Muhammad and his family).
- Istighfar: The seeking of forgiveness from Allah through specific phrases, such as Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah).
- Quranic recitation: The recitation of the Quran is considered a form of dhikr in itself and has numerous benefits.
- Adhkar of the morning and evening: The recitation of specific phrases and prayers in the morning and evening, such as the dua for seeking refuge in Allah from the evil of the night and day.
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱذْكُرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ ذِكْرًۭا كَثِيرًۭا ٤١ وَسَبِّحُوهُ بُكْرَةًۭ وَأَصِيلًا ٤٢
“O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance. And exalt Him morning and afternoon.” (Quran 33:41-42)
- Adhkar of prayer: The recitation of specific phrases and prayers during the five daily prayers, such as Surah Al-Fatihah and the Tasbihat al-Arba’ah (four phrases of glorification of Allah) after each prayer.
Significance Of Engaging in Adhkar During Ramadan
Remembering Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) through dhikr is an excellent way for Muslims to strengthen their spiritual connection with Allah, increases their mindfulness and gratitude, and serves as a means of seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah.
Ramadan is a time when Muslims focus on spiritual growth and self-improvement. One way to incorporate Adhkar into a daily routine during Ramadan is by setting aside specific times for recitation, such as after Fajr (morning) and before Maghrib (evening) prayers. Muslims can also recite Adhkar while performing daily activities, such as cooking or traveling to work.
Another way to incorporate Adhkar during Ramadan is by setting specific goals for the number of daily recitations, such as reciting Tasbih 100 times after each prayer or reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas 100 times a day. Adhkar leads to a more fulfilling and rewarding experience during this holy month.
The Wazaif and Adhkar of Ramadan
Ramadan is a special month in the Islamic calendar, during which we engage in various acts of worship and spiritual practice. Here are some special wazaif and adhkar to reap the benefits of Ramadan:
- Taraweeh Prayers: Taraweeh prayers are special prayers performed during Ramadan, usually after the Isha (night) prayer. Taraweeh prayers involve the recitation of long sections of the Quran and are considered a powerful form of dhikr.
- Dua and supplication: Muslims are encouraged to engage in dua and supplication during Ramadan, asking Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings. It can include reciting specific duas and prayers taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), as well as personal prayers and supplications.
Abu Hurairah reported Allah’s Messenger as saying: ‘He who uttered these words: Subhan Allahi wa bihamdihi (Allah is free from imperfection and His is the praise) one hundred times a day, his sins would be obliterated even if they are equal to the extent of the foam of the ocean.’ (Sahih Muslim)
- Recitation of the Holy Quran: Muslims are encouraged to read and recite the Quran during Ramadan, with many aiming to complete the entire Quran at least once during the month. Reciting the Quran is the best dhikr, as it helps to increase one’s spiritual connection with Allah and gain a deeper understanding of the teachings of Islam.
By engaging in these practices, we can cultivate feelings of mindfulness, gratitude, and compassion and gain a deeper understanding of the teachings of Islam. The holy month of Ramadan is an opportunity for us to incorporate the ways of religion into our daily lives.
Adhkhar For the Last Ten Days of Ramadan
The last ten nights of Ramadan are considered the month’s most blessed and spiritually significant period. Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship and engage in special wazaif and adhkar to become closer to Allah and seek His blessings and forgiveness.
Here are some special wazaif and adhkar to benefit from the last ten nights of Ramadan:
- Tahajjud prayer: We should wake up during the last third of the night and perform the Tahajjud prayer, a voluntary prayer considered very powerful in gaining Allah’s forgiveness and blessings.
- Lailatul Qadr Dua: Lailatul Qadr is the Night of Power, which falls on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to engage in special dua this night, asking Allah for forgiveness, blessings, and guidance.
- Istighfar: We are encouraged to engage in frequent Istighfar (seeking forgiveness from Allah) during the last ten nights of Ramadan, asking for forgiveness for their sins and shortcomings.
- Recitation of Surah Al-Qadr: Muslims are encouraged to recite Surah Al-Qadr during the last ten nights of Ramadan, as this surah speaks about the significance of the Night of Power and its blessings.
Dhikr for the Three Ashra’s of Ramadan
Here are some Duas that Muslims can recite during each of the three Ashra’s of Ramadan:
First Ashra (Days 1-10)
يا حي يا قيوم برحمتك أستغيث ، أصلح لي شأني كله ، ولا تكلني إلى نفسي طرفة عين
(O Living and Eternal Maintainer of all that exists, I seek assistance by Your mercy. Rectify my affairs and do not leave me to myself, even in the blink of an eye).
Second Ashra (Days 11-20)
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنَّا
(O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive us).
Third Ashra (Days 21-30)
الَلهُمَّ أَجِِرْنَا مِنَ النَّار
(O Allah, protect us from the Fire).
Conclusion for Unlocking the Spiritual Benefits of Ramadan through Wazaif & Adhkar
In conclusion, wazaif and adhkar are important practices for Muslims, and they are particularly important during the month of Ramadan. Every ten days of Ramadan, there is a different dua, which is easy to remember and that can be recited during the day while doing house chores or work tasks.
Every day of this Holy month is an opportunity and a blessing for us. It is essential to incorporate the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) in our lives and show gratitude toward His countless blessings.
FAQs
What is the difference between Wazaif and Adhkar?
While wazifa and dhikr are both restorative practices in Islam for strengthening one’s faith, seeking Allah’s blessings and forgiveness, and achieving spiritual fulfillment, Wazaif tends to focus more on specific outcomes or benefits. At the same time, Adhkar focus on continuous remembrance of Allah throughout the day.
Wazaif generally refers to specific prayers or supplications recited for a specific purpose or benefit, such as seeking forgiveness, protection, guidance, or healing. Adhkar, on the other hand, refers to the general remembrance of Allah throughout the day through reciting certain phrases or prayers such as tasbih (Subhanallah), tahmid (alhamdulillah), tahlil (la ilaha illallah), and takbir (Allahu Akbar).
How do I choose the most effective Wazaif for me?
The most effective way to choose the best Wazaif for yourself is to identify your intention. There are different Wazaif with multiple purposes, such as healing from an illness, guidance in a decision, or protection from the evil eye. Furthermore, it is essential to consult your religious scholar as they can provide you with specific Duas and Surahs for recitation.
Additionally, you can do more research on the type of wazaif that’s right for you. Go through Islamic books and listen to religious lectures. However, ensure that your research comes from an authentic source that Hadith and Quran verify. Consistency is the most important factor because if a wazaif is recommended to be recited a hundred times a day, you should recite it a hundred times a day.
Most importantly, put your trust in Allah and His plans. Your supplications and Wazaif will result in successful outcomes if you recite them with sincerity, devotion, and faith in Allah. And He is the one who is aware of all the outcomes, so put your trust in Him you will Insha’Allah, find the benefits and blessings you seek.
Can I recite wazaif and adhkar in any language, or must it be in Arabic?
It is recommended to recite wazaif and adhkar in Arabic, as these are the Quran’s original and most authentic languages and Islamic traditions. However, if you do not understand Arabic or have difficulty pronouncing certain Arabic words, you may recite wazaif and adhkar in your own language as long as you understand the meaning and intention behind the recited words. But it is best to memorize these Adhkar with perfect pronunciation because you’re doing it all to please Allah, and every little effort would be considered by Him.
Can women recite Wazaif and Adhkar during menstruation?
Yes, women can recite wazaif and adhkar during menstruation, as there is no prohibition or restriction on doing so in Islamic tradition. However, they cannot perform ritual prayers (Salah) during this time. In addition, women may not touch the Quran and religious books without wudu, so they should only recite wazaif and adhkar that they have memorized.
