Introduction
Translation: The sacred name of Allah Ta’ala carries blessings, enjoyment, sweetness, ecstasy and peace of mind. This is invariably experienced by one who has practiced and remained absorbed in His zikr for a considerable amount of time. The name of Allah Ta’ala brings joy and peace to the heart. Allah Ta’ala has said:
Translation: “Behold! The Zikr of Allah provides satisfaction for the hearts.” (Surah R’ad - Aayah 152)
There is general discontentment in the world today. The letters, which I receive daily, mostly contain reports of people’s worries and anxieties. The object of this book is that people, who are in difficulty and lack peace of mind, whether in an individual or collective capacity, may find a solution to their problems. Others may also benefit from this publication, “Virtues of the zikr of Allah Ta’ala”. It is possible that the study of this book may inspire some people to make the zikr of Allah Ta’ala with sincerity (ikhlaas). This may prove useful to me also at a time when only good deeds will prove to be helpful. Allah Ta’ala can, through His sheer grace, forgive those who have no good deeds to their credit. What prompted me to undertake this task was that Allah Ta’ala, through His extreme Benevolence and Grace, has blessed my uncle, Hadhrat Moulana Muhammad Ilyaas Kandhlawi, who resides in Nizaamuddin with a special insight and zeal for the work of Tableegh, the activities of which are no longer confined to India, but have reached Hejaz as well. This movement is well known and needs no introduction. Its good results were seen in India and abroad, but it was particularly found in the region of Mewat. The fundamental principles of this movement are very sound and strong, which would naturally yield beneficial results. One of the very important principles is that those who are engaged in Tableegh work should be particular about making zikr, more so when they are actively busy in the work of Tabligh. After observing the wonderful results of this practice, I found the need of writing this book. I was also directed by my respected uncle that the virtues of zikr should be compiled and made available to them. Those who are regular with their zikr may improve their steadfastness on the virtues of zikr and thereby realise that zikr is indeed a great wealth. It is neither possible for a humble person like myself to compile a detailed book on the virtues of zikr, nor is it humanly possible to do full justice to this subject. I have however briefly described some Ahaadith relating to this subject. I have divided the book into three chapters:
First Chapter: The virtues of zikr in general Second Chapter: The virtues of Kalimah Tayyibah (The most virtuous of zikr) Third Chapter: The virtues of the Third Kalimah (also known as Tasbeeh-Faatimah)
(Hadhrat Moulana) Muhammad Zakariyya Kaandhalwi رَحْمَةُ اللّٰهِ عَلَيْهِ