Mufti Sahib, I cannot concentrate when I'm doing any form of zikr i.e salaat, quran, tasbeeh. e.t.c why is this?

There can be a number of different reasons for this. In brief, one requires a spiritual guide (Shaykh), with whom one has to correspond regularly. He will advise certain steps, and await your response. Upon hearing how you have progressed, he will advise you further. This is an ongoing process.

One should search for one qualified in the field of Tasawwuf, and one with whom you have confidence in. In the meanwhile, try to direct your mind to something that is more tangible and physical. Example: In Salaat concentrate on the pronunciation of the words and the posture of the limbs.

Similarly, in Dhikr and Tilaawat, concentrate on the correct pronunciation and every now and then actually verbally remind oneself that you are engaging in these forms of Ibaadat to gain Allah Ta'ala's love and pleasure.

May Allah Ta'ala give us all Tawfeeq.

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.