Because the Turks make Zikr by reciting the Rosary

The Turks have a rich cultural and religious heritage that deeply influences their day-to-day lives. One of the most significant practices within their religious traditions is Zikr, a form of spiritual meditation and remembrance of Allah. What makes this practice even more unique is the use of the Rosary beads as a tool for recitation. This article aims to explore why the Turks use the Rosary beads for their Zikr practice and shed light on the significance of this practice in their lives.

Zikr is an integral part of Islamic spirituality and is practiced by Muslims around the world. It refers to the repetition of the divine names of Allah, phrases, or prayers as a way to establish a connection and remembrance of the divine. While Zikr can be performed through various means such as silent meditation or reciting from memory, the Turks have adopted the use of prayer beads, known as Tasbih or Tesbih, to accompany their Zikr.

The Tasbih typically consists of 99 or 33 beads, carved from materials such as wood, amber, or gemstones. The choice of 99 or 33 beads is not arbitrary; it is derived from the Islamic concept of the 99 names of Allah, or Asma-ul-Husna. Each bead represents one of the divine names, and the recitation of them on the beads helps the practitioner focus on the remembrance of Allah.

Historically, the use of prayer beads can be traced back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad, who is said to have given his companions a string of beads to aid in their Zikr. Over time, this practice became widespread among the Muslim community, including the Turks.

The choice of using a rosary-like structure for Zikr can be attributed to cultural and societal factors. The Ottoman Empire, which spanned from the 14th to the early 20th century, greatly influenced Turkish culture and Islam as practiced in the region. The Ottomans borrowed from the Byzantine and Christian traditions, adapting them to their own Islamic practices. In this case, the use of prayer beads was inspired by the Christian rosary, which had a similar structure and purpose.

Furthermore, the tactile nature of using beads for Zikr helps individuals engage their senses in the process of remembrance. This physical interaction with the Tasbih aids in concentration and allows practitioners to follow the pattern of their recitations more closely.

Through the repetition of divine names and phrases, the Turks believe that Zikr has the power to purify the soul, bring inner peace, and strengthen their connection with Allah. It serves as a means to attain spiritual enlightenment and seek solace in times of hardship or distress. Additionally, Zikr is often performed collectively, creating a sense of unity and community among the participants.

The tradition of making Zikr by reciting the Rosary beads has endured through generations and continues to play a significant role in Turkish society. It is not solely limited to mosques or religious gatherings but is regularly practiced in homes and even during daily commutes.

In conclusion, the Turks’ usage of Rosary beads in their Zikr practice is a testament to their unique blend of Islamic and cultural influences. The Tasbih serves as a physical aid to help individuals focus on their remembrance of Allah and is deeply ingrained in their spiritual journey. This practice not only holds religious significance but also reflects the cultural and historical richness of the Turkish people.