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
Marja' al-Taqlid (Religious Authority)
The highest religious authority in Shia Islam, whom the believer follows in prayer and legal matters.
Tartib (Order in Prayer)
The correct sequence of the prayer's actions and the daily prayers.
Salat al-Hajat (Prayer of Need)
A voluntary prayer performed when one has a specific need or wish.
Dhuhr (Noon Prayer)
The second daily prayer, performed when the sun passes its zenith.
Imamat (Divine Leadership)
The doctrine of the twelve divinely appointed Imams who lead the community after the Prophet.
Salah (Prayer)
The Islamic ritual prayer, performed five times daily.