Allah's Name Al-Latif being repeated 129 times

Q: In some of the Masjids (mosques) here in the district of Bashshar, people repeat Al-Latif (i.e. The Kindest), one of Allah's Most Beautiful Names, every Friday after finishing the study circle before the Adhan (Call to Prayer) and the two sermons of Jumu`ah (Friday) Prayer. They repeat this Name 129 times. I asked the Imam about this practice and he told me that they do so for Allah to save them from His Wrath. What is your view and explanation of this practice?

A: Recitation of Allah's Name (Al-Latif) 129 times before the Adhan of Jumu`ah Prayer has nothing to do with the guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him) nor his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) nor the Salaf (righteous predecessors). In fact this is one of the Bid`ahs (innovations in religion) introduced to religion. It is authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that he said: Anyone who introduces anything into this matter of ours (Islam) that is not part of it will have it rejected. i.e. Allah will not accept it from the person who does it. With regards to sitting in circles for lessons before the Adhan of the Jumu`ah Prayer and the two sermons, it is forbidden according to the Hadith that is narrated by Al-Nasa'y from `Amr ibn Shu`ayb from his father from his grandfather: The Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade (Part No. 2; Page No. 349) sitting in study circles in mosques before the Jumu`ah Prayer. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.