33, 99 and 100: Why Dhikr Is Counted This Way
If you have ever wondered why dhikr is so often counted as 33, 99 or 100, there are real reasons behind the numbers. Some come directly from hadith. Others are common practice. It helps to know which is which.
33, 33 and 34 (or 100 in total)
The best-known count is after the obligatory prayer: SubhanAllah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times and Allahu Akbar 33 or 34 times. Reports in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim describe both forms: 33 of each, followed by La ilaha illallah wahdahu… to complete 100, or 33, 33 and 34 for a total of 100. The same 33, 33, 34 was taught to Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) for bedtime (Sahih al-Bukhari 3113, Sahih Muslim 2727).
100
A count of 100 appears in several authentic reports: SubhanAllahi wa bihamdihi 100 times (Sahih al-Bukhari 6405, Sahih Muslim 2691), La ilaha illallahu wahdahu… 100 times in a day (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim), and the Prophet’s ﷺ seeking forgiveness 100 times a day (Sahih Muslim 2702).
99
Ninety-nine is closely tied to the Names of Allah. The Prophet ﷺ said that Allah has ninety-nine names and whoever “enumerates” them will enter Paradise (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim). Many people use a 99-bead tasbih, which is three rounds of 33. Counting to 99 is a common practice, but it is not a specific number prescribed for one particular phrase in the way 33 after prayer or 100 for SubhanAllahi wa bihamdihi are.
11, and other numbers
Numbers such as 11 are not prescribed. They are simply convenient for short sessions when you do not have time for a full round. If you choose your own number, a consistent small count is better than an ambitious one you cannot keep.
Fingers, beads or a screen?
There is a report that the Prophet ﷺ counted his tasbih on his fingers (Sunan Abi Dawud 1502, Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi 3486), and some scholars therefore prefer fingers. Others permit beads or counters as an aid. Scholars hold different views, so follow the guidance of a teacher you trust. A digital counter like this one is only a helper to free your attention for the words.
Which number should I choose?
- After prayer: 33, 33, 34 (or 33 each, then the tahlil to make 100).
- SubhanAllahi wa bihamdihi or istighfar: 100.
- A short pause in your day: 11 or 33.
- A long, reflective session: 99 or 100.
Set any of these in the digital tasbih, or read the beginner routine for a simple plan.
Hadith references follow commonly used editions and numbering can differ between editions. Please verify texts and rulings with a reliable source or a qualified teacher.