Alternative Spelling:
Athan / Azan / Adhaan / Azan / Athan
What is Adhan?
- Adhan is the Islamic call to prayer, derived from the Arabic root adhina meaning "to listen" or "to announce." The term adhan (أذان) literally signifies a proclamation, reflecting its function as a public announcement inviting Muslims to perform the five daily prayers. This practice was established during the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and remains a central aspect of Islamic worship.
- The theological significance of the adhan lies in its role as a reminder of the oneness of Allah and the importance of regular worship. Each phrase in the adhan emphasizes core Islamic beliefs, such as the testimony of faith and the call to success through prayer, reinforcing the spiritual foundation of a Muslim’s daily life.
- Historically, the adhan was instituted after consultation among the early Muslim community, with guidance from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Scholars have noted that the adhan serves not only as a practical signal for prayer times but also as a symbol of Islamic identity and unity, marking the presence of a Muslim community wherever it is heard.
- On a spiritual level, the adhan acts as a gentle reminder to pause from worldly activities and turn towards Allah. Hearing the adhan can inspire reflection, mindfulness, and a renewed sense of purpose, helping Muslims maintain a strong connection to their faith throughout the day.
- In contemporary practice, the adhan is delivered from mosques using microphones and loudspeakers, ensuring that it reaches as many people as possible. It continues to play a vital role in organizing daily life for Muslims, signaling the exact times for prayer and fostering a sense of community, even in modern urban environments.
Examples of Adhan
- Mosque Setting: "The Adhan was called from the minaret to announce the time for Maghrib prayer."
- Daily Routine: "Hearing the Adhan at dawn reminds many Muslims to prepare for Fajr prayer."
- Islamic Tradition: "It is Sunnah to recite the Adhan in the ear of a newborn, as practiced by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)."
- Community Gathering: "During Ramadan, the Adhan signals the end of fasting each evening."
- Travel: "Muslims traveling in a new city often listen for the Adhan to locate the nearest mosque."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "When you hear the Adhan, repeat what the Mu'adhdhin says."
Sahih Bukhari 611 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "If people knew the reward for pronouncing the Adhan and for standing in the first row (in congregational prayers) and found no other way to get that except by drawing lots, they would draw lots."
Sahih Bukhari 615 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "When the Adhan is pronounced, Satan takes to his heels and passes wind with noise during his flight in order not to hear the Adhan."
Sahih Muslim 389 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Adhan
What does Adhan mean in English?
Adhan means call to prayer.
When should Muslims call the Adhan?
Muslims should call theAdhan at the prescribed times for the five daily prayers.
Who first introduced the Adhan in Islam?
The Adhan was first introduced by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) after the migration to Madinah.
What is the purpose of the Adhan?
The purpose of the Adhan is to announce the time for prayer and invite Muslims to congregational worship.
Who is responsible for reciting the Adhan?
The person responsible for reciting the Adhan is called the mu'adhin.
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