The concept of **Dhikr** (remembrance) in Sufism refers to the practice of remembering and invoking God, often through specific phrases, recitations, or meditative practices. While the basic concept is universal in Sufism, different Sufi orders (Tariqas) interpret and practice it in diverse ways, often with unique rituals and methods. Below are some interpretations of Dhikr across various Sufi orders:
### 1. **Qadiriyya Order**
– **Interpretation**: The Qadiriyya, one of the oldest and most widespread Sufi orders, emphasizes **silent Dhikr** (remembrance) and **verbal invocations**. Their practice often revolves around the recitation of the name of God (Allah) or the phrase **”La ilaha illallah”** (There is no god but God).
– **Method**: In this tradition, practitioners may engage in both individual and collective Dhikr. The collective sessions often involve rhythmic chanting in a group, sometimes combined with movements or dancing.
### 2. **Naqshbandi Order**
– **Interpretation**: The Naqshbandi order is particularly known for its focus on **silent Dhikr**. The idea is that one should remain engaged in the remembrance of God without outwardly speaking or making noise, allowing the remembrance to happen in the heart and mind.
– **Method**: This order stresses the **”Dhikr of the heart”**, in which practitioners focus internally on God, avoiding excessive external rituals. This makes the practice less visible and more subtle.
### 3. **Mevlevi Order (Whirling Dervishes)**
– **Interpretation**: The Mevlevi order, famously known for its **whirling dervishes**, incorporates **chanting** and **movement** as part of their Dhikr. For them, the act of **whirling** is a form of spiritual ascent, where the practitioner seeks to transcend the self and unite with God.
– **Method**: In addition to reciting sacred names, they engage in **musical Dhikr**, where the whirling itself becomes a physical expression of remembrance, connecting the body and soul in devotion.
### 4. **Chishti Order**
– **Interpretation**: The Chishti order emphasizes the **love and devotion** to God through Dhikr. For them, the practice of Dhikr is not just about repeating divine names but also about being in a state of deep love and yearning for God’s presence.
– **Method**: Chishti practitioners may use **repeated invocations** of God’s names, often accompanied by music (e.g., **qawwali**), which facilitates a deeply emotional and heartfelt connection to the divine.
### 5. **Shadhili Order**
– **Interpretation**: The Shadhili order places importance on **both external and internal Dhikr**. They practice **verbal invocations** such as the phrase **”Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum”** (O Ever-Living, O Sustainer), and focus on bringing the remembrance of God into everyday life.
– **Method**: The Shadhili order also encourages the practice of **contemplative prayer** and the invocation of God throughout daily activities. They combine both **public and private Dhikr**, often involving the recitation of specific verses from the Quran and devotional poetry.
### 6. **Suhrawardiyya Order**
– **Interpretation**: The Suhrawardiyya order emphasizes **vocal Dhikr** and **group recitations**. They often focus on **the invocation of light** and use Dhikr to purify the soul and ascend toward God.
– **Method**: Their Dhikr can involve rhythmic recitations, often in large circles, as well as a focus on **spiritual light**. The practice may also include **visions** or **mystical experiences** as part of the journey of remembrance.
### 7. **Tijaniyya Order**
– **Interpretation**: The Tijaniyya emphasizes the importance of **direct spiritual connection** with the Prophet Muhammad, seeing Dhikr as a way to strengthen that bond and attain closeness to God. They believe that through Dhikr, one can achieve inner purification and spiritual power.
– **Method**: The Tijaniyya’s Dhikr practices are typically done in **group settings**, focusing on the recitation of certain phrases, such as **”Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel”** (God is Sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs). It is often done with a focus on gaining blessings from the Prophet Muhammad.
### Conclusion
While the core idea of Dhikr as a means of remembering God is consistent across Sufi orders, each order interprets and practices it in ways that reflect its unique spiritual philosophy, cultural context, and goals. The varying forms—from silent contemplation to ecstatic whirling—demonstrate the richness and diversity of Sufi practices, each designed to help the practitioner achieve closeness to the Divine.