Muezzin (Caller to Prayer)
The person who calls to prayer by reciting the adhan.
Muezzin (Arabic: مؤذن) is the person who calls to prayer by reciting the adhan from the mosque's minaret or another elevated place. The muezzin has an important and honored role in the Islamic community.
The first muezzin in Islam was Bilal ibn Rabah, an Ethiopian slave who was freed and became one of the Prophet's closest companions. Bilal was known for his beautiful and powerful voice. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said about the muezzin: "The muezzins will have the longest necks on the Day of Judgment" — a metaphor for their high rank.
Traditionally, the muezzin would ascend the minaret to call to prayer, but today loudspeakers are often used. In many Muslim countries, the adhan can be heard five times daily throughout the city.
Related terms
Masjid al-Nabawi (The Prophet's Mosque)
The Prophet Muhammad's mosque in Medina, the second holiest mosque in Islam.
Khutbah (Sermon)
The Islamic sermon delivered before the Friday prayer and at the Eid prayers.
Tarawih (Ramadan Night Prayer)
The voluntary night prayer performed in congregation during Ramadan.
Minaret (Prayer Tower)
The mosque's tower, from which the adhan (call to prayer) is traditionally recited.
Khums (One-Fifth)
The obligatory payment of one-fifth of the year's surplus in Shia Islam.
Salat al-Duha (Forenoon Prayer)
A voluntary prayer performed after sunrise and before noon, with great reward according to the narrations.