Dhikr
can be performed collectively. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) told us that the barakah
or blessing of Allah is with those who gather and work as a unified jama'ah
for the cause of Islam: 'Allah's hand is upon the jama'ah.'
[at-Tirmidhi.]
Indeed engaging in remembrance of Allah collectively is encouraged in many ahadith.
The Prophet is reported to have said:
If a group of people sit together remembering Allah, the angels will circle
them, mercy will shroud them, peace will descend onto them and Allah will
remember them among those with Him. [Muslim.]
Dhikr in a group may help teach those who do not know the desired adhkar
and bring hearts together and strengthen their noble ties. To ensure that our
company is always filled with remembrance of Allah, it is of paramount
importance that we continuously seek the company of the righteous if we wish to
be elevated in the eyes of Allah. Hasan al-Basri said in this regard:
Sit in the company of scholars. They will be pleased to see your virtues and
will forgive your mistakes. They will not rebuke you when you commit mistakes;
rather, they will provide clear guidance. When it is necessary to testify, they
will bear true testimony to your advantage.
You must be careful with the selection of friends, for your companionship can
and must be a form of dhikr. The Messenger of Allah said: 'The best friend
is the one who makes you remember Allah when you see him.' Also: 'Whosoever
Allah wishes good for, He will grant him a righteous friend who will remind him
if he forgets and aid him if he remembers'. And the Qur'an says: Bind yourself
with those who call upon Allah morning and evening.
[Surah al-Kahf 18: 27-28.]
As
soon as you see the seed of iman planted in your heart and you recognise
it in someone else's and you find that he agrees with you, you will feel ten
times stronger. Social scientists have also discovered that group life is one of
the most powerful forces to stimulate and improve the human being.