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
Shahadah (Declaration of Faith)
The first pillar of Islam: the testimony that there is no god except Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger.
Sawm (Fasting)
Islamic fasting from dawn to sunset, closely connected with prayer.
Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Remembrance and glorification of Allah through repetition of sacred phrases.
Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)
The greatest Islamic holiday, celebrated in remembrance of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son.
Tasbihat al-Zahra (Fatimah's Tasbih)
A special dhikr consisting of 34+33+33 repetitions, taught by the Prophet to his daughter Fatimah.
Taslim (Concluding Greeting)
The concluding peace greeting that marks the end of the prayer.