Answer: Regarding the forms of dhikr that are authentically transmitted from the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—they may be recited either aloud or quietly. Allah, Exalted is He, says: “Call upon your Lord with humility and in private” (Al-Aʿrāf 7:55), and Allah knows what is hidden and what is even more concealed. Thus you may supplicate aloud or silently, unless raising the voice would disturb those around you—such as people who are sleeping, praying, or reciting the Qur’an—in which case you should lower your voice. Likewise, if you fear that speaking aloud may lead to showing off or seeking praise, then make your duʿāʾ quietly, for that is more conducive to sincerity.

When one does raise the voice, it must not be done in unison, as some people do; rather, every individual should supplicate for himself, whether silently or audibly. Collective supplication in a single, unified voice is an innovation.

As for the dhikr after the obligatory prayer, the Sunnah is to pronounce it aloud. Sound aḥādīth report that the Companions used to raise their voices in dhikr after finishing the prayer, uttering the tahlīl (lā ilāha illā Allah) and seeking forgiveness after the salām. These formulas are to be voiced aloud, but on an individual basis—never collectively—for group dhikr is an invented practice. Each worshipper is to remember Allah on his own and may raise his voice with that dhikr after the prayer.

With respect to duʿāʾ, as stated earlier, it may be offered quietly or aloud, before or after the prayer, provided that proper etiquette is observed and no harm or inconvenience is caused to others.

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The “Precautionary Prayer”

Question: Sometimes during prayer I rush through my bowing and prostration, and I know that the first matter a person will be called to account for on the Day of Resurrection is the prayer. Is it permissible for me to offer a precautionary prayer to make up for any deficiency in the first one?