يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱذْكُرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ ذِكْرًا كَثِيرًا 41
Translations
O you who have believed, remember Allāh with much remembrance
Transliteration
Yā ayyuhā alladhīna āmanū adhkurū Allāha dhikran kathīrā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah commands the believers to remember Allah (dhikr) abundantly and consistently. Classical scholars like Al-Qurtubi and Ibn Kathir emphasize that this remembrance should be continuous in all states—whether walking, standing, or sitting—as it purifies the heart, strengthens faith, and protects one from sin and heedlessness. The phrase 'dhikran kathīrā' (abundant remembrance) indicates both frequency and quality of remembrance, encompassing Quranic recitation, supplication, glorification, and meditation on Allah's attributes and creation.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Al-Ahzab, revealed during the Medinan period. It is part of a section addressing the believers with various ethical and spiritual commands. The surah itself addresses events surrounding the Battle of the Confederates (Ghazwat al-Ahzāb), but this particular ayah represents a universal injunction applicable to all believers at all times, emphasizing the centrality of dhikr in Islamic spiritual life.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best supplication is 'Alhamdulillah' (All praise belongs to Allah), and the best remembrance is 'Lā ilāha illā Allāh' (There is none worthy of worship except Allah)' - Sunan Ibn Mājah. Also, Abū Hurairah reported that the Prophet said: 'The words most loved by Allah are: 'Subhān Allāh wa bihamdihi' (Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him)' - Sahih Muslim.
Themes
Key Lesson
Consistent remembrance of Allah is not merely a devotional practice but a fundamental means of spiritual transformation and nearness to the Divine. For modern believers, this ayah reminds us that amidst the distractions of contemporary life, intentional and abundant remembrance of Allah—through Quranic recitation, prescribed dhikr, and mindful awareness of His presence—is essential for maintaining a healthy, God-conscious heart.