Friday (Jumu’ah) holds a very special place in Islam. It is not just another day of the week but a day chosen by Allah (SWT) as the best of all days. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The best day the sun rises over is Friday; on it Allah created Adam. On it, he was made to enter Paradise, on it he was expelled from it, and the Hour will be established on no day other than Friday.” (Sahih Muslim)
This Hadith makes it clear that Jumu’ah is directly linked with the beginning of human creation and with the events of the Last Day. Muslims around the world give this day special attention because of its countless virtues.
Quranic Reference
Allah (SWT) commands the believers in the Qur’an to leave trade and hasten to the remembrance of Allah when the call for Jumu’ah prayer is made:
“O you who have believed, when [the adhan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu’ah [Friday], then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if you only knew.” (Surah Al-Jumu’ah 62:9)
This verse shows the importance of prioritizing the Friday prayer above worldly activities.
Virtues of Friday
- Day of Acceptance of Duas: The Prophet ﷺ mentioned that on Friday there is a moment when Allah accepts every dua. (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- Forgiveness of Sins: Whoever makes ghusl, comes to Jumu’ah, listens attentively, and prays, his sins between that Friday and the next are forgiven. (Sahih Muslim)
- Reward of Reciting Surah al-Kahf: Reading Surah Kahf on Friday brings light and guidance until the next Friday. (Sunan al-Kubra)
Friday Prayer (Salat al-Jumu’ah)
Friday prayer replaces the regular Dhuhr prayer but has extra significance. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged Muslims to attend the Khutbah (sermon) attentively and not engage in any idle talk. The Friday prayer is not just an individual act of worship but a collective gathering of the Muslim community, fostering unity.
Number of Rak’ahs on Friday
Normally, the Dhuhr prayer is 12 rak’ahs (4 farz + 8 sunnah/nafl in different combinations). However, on Friday, the structure changes slightly:
Before the Jumu’ah prayer: Sunnah prayers are highly recommended (usually 4 rak’ahs before the khutbah). Some scholars recommend even more depending on narrations.
Jumu’ah prayer itself: It is 2 rak’ahs farz, offered in congregation after the Khutbah. This replaces the 4 rak’ahs of Dhuhr.
After the Jumu’ah prayer: There are 4 rak’ahs sunnah and then 2 rak’ahs sunnah.
So in total, on Friday, it becomes 14 rak’ahs instead of the usual 12 of regular Dhuhr.
This practice is based on authentic narrations where the Prophet ﷺ and his companions prayed these additional sunnah rak’ahs.
Special Sunnahs of Friday
Performing Ghusl (ritual bath).
Wearing clean clothes, preferably white.
Applying perfume.
Reciting Surah Al-Kahf.
Sending abundant blessings (Salawat) upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
A Day of Gathering and Unity
Friday is not just about prayer but also about coming together as a community. It strengthens brotherhood, creates a sense of belonging, and reminds Muslims of their responsibilities towards each other.
Conclusion
Friday is truly a blessed day in Islam – a day that combines spiritual purification, community gathering, and divine mercy. It is a weekly Eid for Muslims, a reminder of the Day of Judgment, and a chance to renew faith. The 14 rak’ahs of prayer, the khutbah, and the special duas all make Friday a source of immense blessings.
May Allah (SWT) allow us to benefit from the blessings of Jumu’ah and make us among those who honor it with sincerity.
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