How to Do Dhikr with Fingers: A Simple Guide

Umair Nawaz

Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) is one of the most beautiful and rewarding acts in Islam. While it can be done in many ways—silently in the heart, verbally with the tongue—one of the Sunnah methods is to do dhikr using your fingers. This is a practice that was taught and encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Why Use Fingers for Dhikr?

The Prophet ﷺ specifically encouraged using fingers for counting dhikr. He said that these fingers will be made to testify on the Day of Judgment. Using your fingers creates a deeper physical and spiritual connection to the remembrance.

Step-by-Step: How to Do Dhikr with Fingers

  1. Sit in a calm and clean place
    It’s not obligatory, but having a peaceful setting helps you focus your heart and mind.
  2. Use your right hand
    According to authentic hadiths, the Prophet ﷺ used his right hand for dhikr, so we follow that example.
  3. Start with the tip of your thumb
    Place your thumb on the top segment of your index finger. Each finger has three sections (segments or phalanges). You’ll move across them to count.
  4. Count using the segments of your fingers
    Begin from the index finger and move toward the pinky, using the segments to count. You can get 33 counts using the three segments of each of the five fingers and then returning to the beginning.
  5. Repeat phrases of dhikr
    Common phrases you can say:
    • SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
    • Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah)
    • Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
      These are often repeated 33 times each.
  6. Be mindful and present
    Try not to rush. Focus on the meaning of the words and your connection to Allah.
  7. End with a du’a or silent prayer
    After completing your dhikr, you can raise your hands and make a heartfelt du’a, or simply remain in quiet remembrance.

A Few Tips:

  • You don’t need a tasbih (prayer beads). Fingers are Sunnah and always with you.
  • Don’t worry if you lose count—just continue with sincerity.
  • Dhikr can be done anytime, anywhere—while walking, waiting, or even lying down.

May Allah make us among those who remember Him often and sincerely.
اللهم اجعلنا من الذاكرين كثيرًا والذاكرات