Jumu'ah (Friday Prayer)
The weekly congregational prayer on Friday, which replaces Dhuhr.
Jumu'ah (Arabic: جمعة) is the weekly congregational prayer performed on Friday. Friday is the most important day of the week for Muslims, and the Jumu'ah prayer is obligatory for all adult men who are able to attend.
Jumu'ah replaces the Dhuhr prayer on Fridays and consists of two rak'ah (instead of Dhuhr's four), preceded by a khutbah (sermon) in two parts. The imam delivers the sermon, which typically covers Islamic topics, moral guidance and current issues for the Muslim community.
The Quran says: "O you who believe! When the call is proclaimed for prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off business" (Surah Al-Jumu'ah 62:9). Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The best day on which the sun rises is Friday."
It is sunnah to bathe, use fragrance, and wear one's best clothes for Jumu'ah. Jumu'ah is held at local mosques, typically around 12:30-13:30 depending on the mosque and the season.
Related terms
Husayniyyah (Shia Assembly Hall)
A Shia Muslim assembly hall, named after Imam Husayn.
Mafatih al-Jinan (Keys to Paradise)
The most widely used Shia prayer book, compiled by Shaykh Abbas al-Qummi.
Taqwa (God-Consciousness)
God-consciousness and piety — the ultimate goal of prayer and worship.
Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)
The greatest Islamic holiday, celebrated in remembrance of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son.
Amr bil-Ma'ruf wa Nahy 'an al-Munkar
Enjoining good and forbidding evil — an Islamic duty connected with prayer.
Wilayah (Divine Authority)
The concept of divine authority and leadership in Shia Islam.