Rituals of Dhikr in Islamic Traditions And Their Status and Social Functions

One of the most common religious practices among Muslims, which has been emphasized in Islamic traditions, is saying "Dhikr" (invocation). Aside from the fact that, based on Quranic teachings and Islamic traditions, some important Islamic rituals such as daily prayers are perceived as clear examples of Dhikr, Muslims have various ways of implementing this practice in their daily life. They sometimes call the sermons and other religious gatherings "Dhikr Assemblies". For instance the ceremony for "Dhikr-i Ahli-l bayt" and the ceremony for "Dhikr-i Muṣibat" are popular rituals held in contemporary Iran. In this study, after reviewing some of the remained evidence of how different ways of Dhikr became popular, the relevant rituals will be elaborated. Also, based on the historical evidences, functions and theoretical outcomes of these practices will be explained. The purpose of such study is to identify the fundamental elements of Dhikr in Islamic culture and to determine which of the apparent or hidden functions of these rituals have led to the popularity of some of the common practices in Islamic culture. Such study may contribute to the better recognition of the concept of Dhikr which has been repeated in a wide variety of Islamic eras and will facilitate for the chronology of Islamic traditions.