The way you describe dhikr it would be idolatrous to pray in such a way. We do not pray to the name of G-d (as has already been explained -- He doesn't really have "a" name or even names -- we simply have words we use to describe Him the best way we can in our limited fashion).   We pray TO G-d using a variety of descriptions (G-d as our father, our king, merciful, a mighty judge, etc.) because we are appealing His mercy, judgement, etc.  

The Jewish Encyclopedia is not and has never been an accepted halachic (legal) Jewish resource. Parts of it were decent, parts of it were horrid -- and it was written well over 100 years ago (which is why it is on the internet -- it is free since it is out of copyright).

Most languages don't have a one for one "swap" into another language. Calling the descriptions of G-d a "name" is one of those translations that definitely does not fit the various descriptions of how WE perceive aspects of G-d.

סופי

And everything that Sarah tells you, listen to her voice. Bereshit (Genesis) 21:12
Last Edited By: Sophiee1 Fri, 14-Dec-12 10:49:19. Edited 1 times.