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
Sabr (Patience)
Patience and perseverance in trials — one of faith's highest virtues.
Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening Chapter)
The opening chapter of the Quran, recited in every single rak'ah.
Ashura (The Tenth of Muharram)
The tenth day of Muharram, the commemoration of Imam Husayn's martyrdom.
Mafatih al-Jinan (Keys to Paradise)
The most widely used Shia prayer book, compiled by Shaykh Abbas al-Qummi.
Ziyarat al-Jami'ah al-Kabirah
A comprehensive visitation prayer to all twelve Imams, taught by Imam Ali al-Hadi.
Rak'ah (Prayer Cycle)
A single cycle of movements and recitations in the Islamic prayer.