Remembrance of Allah (dhikr) is one of the most powerful acts a believer can engage in. It requires no wealth, no physical strength, and no specific time or place. It is a direct line between the servant and the Creator. Yet, the way we remember Allah whether in private or public has different effects on our hearts and our relationship with Him.
THE PRIVACY OF REMEMBRANCE
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The best remembrance is that which is done in secret.” (Ibn Hibban)
When a believer remembers Allah in solitude, away from the gaze of people, it demonstrates sincerity (ikhlas). No audience, no praise, and no recognition only Allah knows. This private dhikr polishes the heart, increases humility, and strengthens the personal bond with the Creator.
In another hadith, the Prophet ﷺ mentioned that among the seven types of people shaded by Allah on the Day of Judgment is:
“…a man who remembers Allah when he is alone, and his eyes overflow with tears.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
This highlights how secret remembrance carries a weight and sweetness that public recognition cannot match.
PUBLIC REMEMBRANCE
At the same time, remembering Allah in public has its own value. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When a group of people sit together remembering Allah, the angels surround them, mercy covers them, tranquility descends upon them, and Allah mentions them to those with Him.” (Muslim)
Public dhikr can inspire others, create a sense of unity, and spread the remembrance of Allah within society. It also fulfills the command to “remind each other” and keep the hearts alive.
BALANCING BOTH
The ideal Muslim strives to balance both forms of remembrance. Private dhikr ensures sincerity, while public dhikr inspires and strengthens the community. But the key lies in the intention: if the heart seeks Allah’s pleasure, then both forms are valuable.
In private: whisper Qur’an recitations, shed tears in dua, or say SubhanAllah quietly on your tongue.
In public: join gatherings of knowledge, encourage family with adhkar, or say Bismillah before eating to remind others.
What matters most is the heart’s direction. If public remembrance is done for show (riya), it loses its value. But if it is done to glorify Allah and inspire others, it becomes an act of worship.
CONCLUSION
Remembering Allah is not bound by place or company it is the heartbeat of faith. In private, it builds sincerity. In public, it strengthens the ummah. Both are essential, and both carry immense reward. Let us strive to keep our tongues moist with dhikr, our hearts alive with faith, and our intentions pure for Allah alone.
