Azkar After Prayer: Daily Dhikr for Every Muslim

Remembrance of Allah (dhikr) is an essential act of worship that strengthens faith, purifies the heart, and brings tranquility to the soul. Among the most significant forms of dhikr are azkar after prayer, which the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) recommended for Muslims to recite after each obligatory salah. These supplications and praises ensure that worshippers end their prayers in the best way, seeking forgiveness and protection while affirming the greatness of Allah.

The term azkar refers to words of remembrance, praises, and supplications that bring a Muslim closer to Allah. After every obligatory prayer (ṣalāh), Muslims are encouraged to recite a set of adhkār, which include glorification (tasbīḥ), praise (taḥmīd), declaration of Allah’s greatness (takbīr), and seeking forgiveness (istighfār).

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Whoever glorifies Allah after every prayer thirty-three times, praises Allah thirty-three times, and magnifies Allah thirty-three times, that is ninety-nine, and to complete one hundred he says: Lā ilāha illallāhu waḥdahu lā sharīka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-ḥamdu wa huwa ‘alā kulli shay’in qadīr — his sins will be forgiven even if they are like the foam of the sea.” (Muslim)

• Completion of Worship: Just as duʿāʾ after prayer seals the act of worship, adhkār bring it to perfection.

• Forgiveness of Sins: Through these remembrances, Allah promises immense forgiveness.

• Spiritual Protection: They act as a shield against negligence and Shayṭān.

• Building Connection: They extend the state of khushūʿ (humility) beyond the prayer.

• Daily Routine of Dhikr: Establishing consistency helps strengthen faith over time.

Below are some of the most authentic and widely practiced azkar after prayer from the Sunnah:

• Forgiveness of Sins: The Prophet (ﷺ) promised forgiveness even if sins are vast.

• Strengthened Faith: Constant remembrance ensures a heart attached to Allah.

• Inner Peace: The mind and heart find calmness after worship.

• Spiritual Shield: Protection against laziness, heedlessness, and Shayṭān.

• Consistency in Worship: Keeps the believer connected to Allah beyond prayer.

• Complete Salah Mindfully: End prayer with taslīm.

• Seek Forgiveness (3 times): Say Astaghfirullāh sincerely.

• Recite the Supplication of Peace: Allāhumma anta al-salām…

• Say Tasbīḥ, Taḥmīd, Takbīr (33 times each).

• Complete with Tawḥīd: Lā ilāha illallāh waḥdahu lā sharīka lah…

• Recite Āyat al-Kursī: Especially after obligatory prayers.

• Add Optional Duʿāʾ: Ask Allah for health, forgiveness, and guidance.

Lead by Example: Recite aloud so children can imitate.

• Start Small: Teach tasbīḥ, taḥmīd, and takbīr first.

• Use Visual Aids: Dhikr charts or tasbīḥ counters help make it fun.

• Consistency: Attach the routine to every prayer so it becomes a habit.

• Best Night Time Prayer for Kids

Q1: Do I have to recite all azkar after every prayer?
A: The most important ones (seeking forgiveness, peace supplication, tasbīḥ, taḥmīd, takbīr, and tawḥīd) should be prioritized. Others can be added gradually.

Q2: Can I use a tasbīḥ (prayer beads)?
A: Yes, it is permissible as a tool for counting, though using your fingers is more recommended.

Q3: Is it necessary to recite them aloud?
A: Both loud and quiet recitation are permissible. Moderate voice is best.

Q4: What if I forget to recite them after salah?
A: You can still recite them later, but it is best to say them immediately after prayer.

Q5: Can women also recite azkar after prayer?
A: Absolutely. These adhkār are for every Muslim, regardless of gender.