On Fridays, Muslim men must perform the weekly
congregational Prayer called the Jumu`ah Prayer. This Prayer replaces the
Zhuhr (Noon) Prayer on Friday and it is obligatory for all men to attend it.
Women may also perform the Jumu`ah Prayer if they wish, but it is not
obligatory for them. This Prayer replaces the regular Zhuhr Prayer. However,
if someone is unable to attend the Jumu`ah Prayer, he or she should pray
four rak`ahs of Zhuhr.
The Prayer is preceded by a sermon called a khutbah, which is
delivered in two parts with ashort break (about one minute) between
the two parts.
It is highly recommended to read SuratAl-Kahf(surah 18) and to invoke Allah’s
blessings on Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) during the
day and night of Friday. It is also highly recommended to supplicate on
Friday.
It is Sunnahto perform ghusl(cleansing of the whole body [shower
making sure every part of your body is cleaned]) on
Friday and to put on clean good clothes before attending the Jumu`ah Prayer.
Men (but not women) should also apply perfume before attending the Prayer.
The first thing to do in the mosque is to pray
two rak`ahs of Sunnah Prayer, known as the tahiyyat or
greeting of the mosque. Even if one arrives after the beginning of the
sermon, he should pray two short rak`ahs before sitting down. While
waiting for the sermon to start, one may recite Qur’an or listen to it being
recited.
As the time approaches, the muezzin announces the
first Adhan. Then the imam goes to the minbar (pulpit), faces the
worshipers and greets them with, “As-Salaamu
`alaykum!” (Peace be
with you!)
He then sits down facing the congregants. At this
moment, the second Adhan is announced, and the imam begins the sermon.
After the sermon, the two rak`ahs of
Jumu`ah Prayer are offered in congregation. The imam recites the Prayer
aloud.
It is sufficient for the worshipper to follow
the prayer of the Imam (person leading the prayer). And after it is
completed, to complete the sunnah and nafal parts of the prayers.