Introduction
In the ritual practices of Islam, including the realms of Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and Duʿā (supplication), the concepts of “Muṭlaq” and “Muqayyad” play a significant role. These Arabic terms help to understand the nature of these spiritual utterances and offer insights into how they can be performed. This article delves into these two concepts to provide a nuanced understanding of Dhikr and Duʿā in Islamic practice.
What is Muṭlaq in Dhikr and Duʿā?
In the context of Dhikr and Du’a, “Muṭlaq” refers to remembrances or supplications that are unconditional or general. This allows for spontaneous and flexible practice, giving individuals the freedom to engage in Dhikr and Duʿā based on their personal feelings and circumstances. For example, one can engage in Dhikr by simply repeating “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is Great) without any specific conditions or limitations. Any sacred utterance you come across on this site can be used in this manner, but read the rest of this article to understand some key points.
What is Muqayyad in Dhikr and Duʿā?
On the other hand, “Muqayyad” in Dhikr and Duʿā refers to remembrances or supplications that are conditional, and restricted by specific limitations or conditions such as time, place, or frequency. These conditions are usually derived from the teachings or practices of the Prophet ﷺ. For instance, there are specific Duʿās to be recited after hearing the call to prayer, which would be considered Muqayyad. These Muqayyad forms often come with their associated specific benefits and rewards. After the call to prayer, however, is also an encouraged time to make any supplication, encouraging Muṭlaq practice.
Striking a Balance
Both Muṭlaq and Muqayyad forms of Dhikr and Duʿā are valid and heavily mandated and encouraged, with each having their own merits. While Muṭlaq allows for personal expression and unconditional intimate connection with Allah, Muqayyad ensures that the individual is aligned with the teachings and practices laid out in Islamic tradition, seeking to adopt divine guidance where, when, and how; the hallmark of a slave seeking to please his master. So the slave worships and conforms to His Master’s instruction to worship Him in general, as well as doing His bidding in all set and specified ways.
A Word of Caution
It’s important to note that one should not transform a spontaneous (Muṭlaq) form of Dhikr or Duʿā into a religiously adhered-to routine (Muqayyad). Doing so would essentially mean creating one’s own specific spiritual practice that they adhere to in the same way they adhere to divine instruction, which is generally discouraged in Islam. By all means, have favourites and repeat and engage in what you want to engage in just be mindful of not making a habitual personal practice rival Sunnah practice in such an absolute way, as though it was a matter specifically revealed.
Conclusion
Understanding the concepts of Muṭlaq and Muqayyad can significantly enrich one’s experience and practice of Dhikr and Duʿā. By appreciating the flexibility of Muṭlaq and the structure of Muqayyad, one can navigate the spiritual aspects of Islam in a balanced and fulfilling way. This nuanced approach allows for a deeper connection with Allah, while also respecting the guidelines set forth by Him.