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
Du'a Tawassul (Supplication of Intercession)
A supplication where one asks Allah through the intercession of the Prophet and Ahl al-Bayt.
Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)
The most sacred night in Islam, when the Quran was revealed.
Muharram (The Sacred Month)
The first and one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar.
Bismillah (In the Name of Allah)
The formula "In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful," which opens prayer and action.
Du'a Arafah (Imam Husayn's Supplication at Arafah)
Imam Husayn's famous supplication, recited on the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Khutbah (Sermon)
The Islamic sermon delivered before the Friday prayer and at the Eid prayers.