For Muslims, the tasbih (prayer beads) plays an important role in counting the number of dhikr (remembrance of Allah) recitations. Traditionally, tasbihs consist of a string of beads, but digital tasbihs have become increasingly popular due to their practicality and ease of use.
This article will explore how to choose the best digital tasbih, recommend some top products, and discuss the Islamic perspective on using digital tasbihs for dhikr.
The primary function of a digital tasbih is the same as a manual one: to keep track of dhikr recitations. Here are some tips for choosing a digital tasbih that is both high-quality and comfortable to use:
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Key Considerations When Choosing a Digital Tasbih
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Material and Battery Type:
Most digital tasbihs are made of lightweight and inexpensive plastic, often ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic, known for its rigidity and impact resistance. However, not all are waterproof, so avoid use with wet or sweaty hands. The design typically resembles a ring with an adjustable strap for finger comfort.
Pay attention to the battery type. Some use replaceable batteries like AAA, while higher-end models use lithium button batteries (e.g., AG13) or rechargeable built-in batteries with USB charging.
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Features:
The core feature is a fast counter integrated with a button. Press the button to automatically count dhikr recitations. Many also have a scroll feature mimicking traditional beads, and a reset button to clear the count and start over.
Premium models often include an LED light for visibility in low-light conditions. Additional features may include memory to save counts and a compass.
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Size and Comfort:
Digital tasbihs are generally small, often ring-sized, for easy grip or wearing on a finger. Choose a size that fits comfortably on your finger or wrist to minimize fatigue. Ensure the display screen is large enough to read the numbers easily.
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Design and Aesthetics:
Many manufacturers now offer digital tasbihs with decorative elements like beads, Swarovski crystals, wood or ceramic motifs, or even custom name additions. Those who prefer a simpler look can opt for plain designs.
Digital Tasbih Recommendations
Numerous digital tasbih models are available online at various price points. Here are some recommended products:
- Prodigo Digital Tasbih: Made from plastic, this tasbih has a unique hand tally counter design. The four-digit display counts from 0 to 9999. It’s priced affordably and is suitable for personal use or as a Hajj/Umrah souvenir.
- MasterHome Digital Tasbih: This compact, finger-ring style tasbih features count and reset buttons. It is available in various colors and can also be worn as a finger ring. It features a 5-digit display that counts from 0-99999
- Pustaka Baru Digital Tasbih: This LED screen display tasbih is equipped with a large counting button, a reset button, and an LED light button. It boasts a five-digit display (0-99999).
- Satu Keluarga Digital Tasbih C205: This lightweight tasbih comfortably fits on a finger and features an LCD screen display, and a five-digit display (0-99999). It can be used for counting dhikr or other purposes.
- Bright Crown Digital Tasbih: Made of durable ABS plastic with a wood motif and tassel, this tasbih is suitable as a wedding souvenir or Hajj/Umrah gift. It includes a compass and an LCD screen.
- Rabita Digital Tasbih: Similar to a ring-style tasbih, this model features decorative beads and an LED light.
- Nissa Aydrus Tasbih LED: This beautifully designed tasbih features Swarovski crystals and an LED display. These are often custom made on order and are highly decorative.
- iQibla Zikr1 Lite Smart Ring: A technologically advanced option, this smart ring features prayer time notifications, Bluetooth 5.1, a tasbih counter with markers, and an alarm. It’s waterproof and made with high-quality materials.
- Keychain Digital Tasbih: This compact keychain tasbih can be attached to a bag or wallet and features a five-digit display.
- SXH Digital Tasbih: This simple and affordable tasbih uses a AAA battery and has a four-digit LCD display.
- Tasbih Digital with Wood and Marble Motif: Made of sturdy ABS plastic, this tasbih has a five-digit display, a compass, and an LED light.
- Tasbih Digital Tally Counter 9 Channel: Made from plastic and silicone, it is sweatproof and includes features like a lock screen, mute, and memory to store data in six slots. It is also energy-efficient.
- Rumbai Permata Digital Tasbih: This has a beautiful design and can be a special gift. It’s luxurious in appearance and the color can be matched with the outfit you’re wearing.
- Gelang Manik Manik Digital Tasbih: This is in the form of a bracelet. It is embellished with very beautiful beads and can be used to go to the mosque or the holy land. It’s not too big and not heavy at all, where you can use it easily and it’s lighter to wear.
The Islamic Perspective on Using Digital Tasbihs
Dhikr can be performed at any time and in any place, especially after prayers. Many Muslims recite specific phrases (tasbih, tahmid, takbir, and tahlil) thirty-three times each. Tasbihs, whether manual or digital, are used to aid in counting. But what does Islam say about using such devices?
Sheikh Dr. Ali Jum’ah, a prominent scholar in Egypt, states that using a tasbih or other counting aids for dhikr is permissible and was practiced by the Prophet’s companions. He cites hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad) as evidence:
- Al-Qasim bin Abdirrahman said that Abu Darda’ (may Allah be pleased with him) kept date seeds in a bag. During morning prayers, he would take them out one by one, reciting tasbih with each seed until they were finished (HR. Ahmad).
- Abu Dadhrah Al-Ghifari narrated that a sheikh from Thufawah said, “I visited Abu Hurairah in Medina. I never found a companion of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who tried harder to honor his guests than him. One day, when I was in his house, he was on a bed. Next to him was a bag containing pebbles or date seeds used to count his tasbih recitations. Under the bed was a black female slave. When the bag was empty, she would give it to the slave. The slave would collect the contents and put them back in the bag and hand them back to him.” (HR. Abu Daud, At-Tirmidzi, and An-Nasai).
Other close companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also used counting aids, such as Saad bin Abi Waqqas, Abu Said Al-Khudri, Abu Shafiyyah, Fathimah, and other Sahaba and Tabi’in.
Conclusion: Using counting aids for dhikr, including digital tasbihs, is permissible (sunnah) in Islam and was practiced by the Sahaba and Tabi’in. While they used simpler tools like pebbles or strings, the principle remains the same.
Digital tasbihs are readily available and affordable. If you are looking for a convenient and practical tool to assist in your daily dhikr, consider the digital tasbih options available.
