Teks Sholawat Az Zahir: Understanding the Sacred Chants of Az Zahir
Sholawat or Islamic chants are an essential part of Muslim worship. They serve as a way of giving homage to Allah (SWT), and Prophet Muhammad (SAW), expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, and asking for forgiveness. Among the prominent communities of chanters is Az Zahir, who have composed various sholawat pieces that have gained popularity among Muslims globally. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Az Zahir and their sholawat compositions, including some frequently asked questions.
Who are Az Zahir?
Az Zahir is an Islamic chant ensemble that hails from Indonesia. They started their journey in 1980 in Surabaya, East Java, and since then, they have become prominent in the wider Muslim community, both nationally and internationally. Az Zahir’s unique style of chanting combines traditional and modern elements, including various instruments such as the Gambus and the Keyboard. Their music is distinguished by its harmonious melody, which is both captivating and soothing, producing a spiritual atmosphere that helps Muslims focus their minds on prayer and worship.
What are Sholawat?
Sholawat is a form of Islamic chanting that serves as a tool for Muslims to express their love and appreciation for their prophet, Muhammad (SAW), and Allah (SWT). Sholawat is also used to seek blessings, protection, and forgiveness, as well as to strengthen one’s faith. The chanting is done either alone or in a group and can take different forms such as acapella or accompanied by instruments.
What is the significance of Sholawat and chanting in Islam?
In Islam, Sholawat has a significant place in the religious and spiritual practices of Muslims. It is an act of worship done to seek blessings, show gratitude, and express love for Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Allah (SWT). It is believed that chanting sholawat invokes the mercy and blessings of Allah (SWT) and brings peace and tranquility to the hearts of all those who sincerely seek spiritual illumination.
What are some of the popular Sholawat compositions by Az Zahir?
Az Zahir has composed a vast collection of sholawat chants that have gained popularity among Muslims globally. Some of their popular compositions include:
Sholawat Badar
This sholawat composition is based on a poem that recounts the events of the Battle of Badr, the first major military encounter between the Muslims and the pagans of Mecca. The piece is known for its powerful melody, evoking a feeling of courage and strength among the listeners.
Sholawat Burdah
This piece is based on the famous poem Burdah, composed by the 13th-century Muslim scholar Imam Al Busiri. The composition is a beautiful ode to Prophet Muhammad (SAW), praising his character, leadership, and teachings. The melody is soft and sweet, inspiring a feeling of love and affection for the prophet.
Sholawat Majlis
This sholawat composition is meant to be chanted during group gatherings or Majlis, where Muslims gather to recite the Quran, chant sholawat and engage in other religious activities. The composition is characterized by its lively melody, which encourages group participation and evokes a feeling of community and togetherness.
Sholawat Nariyah
This sholawat composition is a prayer for protection against harm and calamities. Its lyrics are believed to have been recited by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during his lifetime. The piece is characterized by its simple yet captivating melody that invokes a feeling of trust and reliance on Allah (SWT) in times of distress.
How can we benefit from listening to Az Zahir’s Sholawat?
Listening to Az Zahir’s sholawat can have both spiritual and psychological benefits. The melodious and calming music can help calm one’s mind and soothe one’s soul, bringing about a feeling of peace and tranquility. Furthermore, the lyrics of the sholawat compositions can help increase one’s knowledge and understanding of Islam, the Prophet (SAW), and the various aspects of Islamic worship.
Is it permissible to listen to music in Islam?
In Islam, music can be classified into two categories: Halal (permissible) and Haram (forbidden). Halal music is that which contains good and pure content and does not incite any immoral behavior or negative emotions. Haram music is that which contains vulgar and immoral content, incites negative emotions such as anger, lust, or greed.
Likewise, it is permissible to listen to sholawat, as long as it is not accompanied by haram music or produces any haram emotions. Listening to sholawat is considered a form of worship that can bring about divine rewards and blessings.
Conclusion
Az Zahir is an Islamic chant ensemble that has become popular among Muslims globally for its unique style of combining traditional and modern elements in their sholawat compositions. Listening to their music can bring about both spiritual and psychological benefits, including a feeling of peace and tranquility, increased knowledge and understanding of Islamic worship and practices.
As Muslims, it is essential to learn and appreciate the significance and beauty of sholawat in our religious and spiritual practices. May Allah (SWT) continuously bless us and guide us on the right path.
FAQs:
Q:
Can women chant Sholawat?
A:
Yes, it is permissible for women to chant sholawat, as it is a form of worship that is open to all Muslims, regardless of gender.
Q:
Can non-Muslims listen to Sholawat?
A:
Yes, there are no restrictions regarding non-Muslims listening to sholawat. However, it is essential to respect the religious and cultural traditions of others when doing so.
Q:
Can we listen to Sholawat while doing other activities?
A:
Yes, listening to sholawat while doing other activities is permissible and can positively impact one’s spiritual and psychological state of mind.
Q:
Do we need to understand Arabic to appreciate Sholawat?
A:
While understanding Arabic can enhance one’s appreciation of the lyrics of sholawat, it is not necessary to appreciate and benefit from the melodious music and spiritual atmosphere created by the chanting.
Q:
Can we listen to Sholawat in public places?
A:
It is permissible to listen to sholawat in public places as long as it does not disturb others or violate any laws or regulations.