The History of Jumuah Adhan From One Call to Three

The Jumuah Adhan and Its Increase by Uthman ibn Affan (RA)

Introduction

The Friday prayer, known as Salat al-Jumuah, is truly significant in Islam. It acts as a weekly gathering where Muslims come together to worship, listen to the Khutbah (sermon), and build stronger ties within their community.

One key feature of Jumuah is the Adhan, the call to prayer. This announcement signals to the faithful that it’s time for the sermon and the congregational prayer to start. 

Interestingly, the history of the Jumuah Adhan reveals how it evolved over the years, particularly during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan (RA).

The Hadith on Jumuah Adhan

Narrated As-Saib bin Yazid (RA): 

The person who increased the number of Adhan for the Jumuah prayer to three was Uthman bin Affan (RA) and it was when the (Muslim) population of Al-Madina increased. In the lifetime of the Prophet (PBUH) there was only one Muadhdhin and the Adhan used to be pronounced only after the Imam had taken his seat.

Explanation of the Hadith

This hadith brings to light a significant change in how the Adhan, or call to prayer, was conducted for Jumuah. Back in the days of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), there was just one Adhan, which was given after the Imam settled on the pulpit (minbar).

However, as the Muslim community in Madinah expanded during the leadership of Uthman ibn Affan (RA), it became clear that there was a need for people to be better prepared for the Friday prayers.

To tackle this, Uthman (RA) decided to introduce extra Adhans before the Khutbah. This way, folks could gather earlier and ensure they attended the prayer on time.

This initiative illustrates the adaptability of the rightly guided caliphs in making administrative choices to cater to the growing needs of the Muslim Ummah, all while preserving the core practices of worship.

Lessons Derived

Adaptation to Circumstances: The increase in population, various practical adjustments were made to improve life for everyone in the community.

Leadership in Islam: Uthman ibn Affan (RA) stands as a remarkable example of a leader whose decisions greatly benefited the Muslim community.

Original Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH): The hadith explains that back in the time of the Prophet, there was just one Adhan announced for Jumuah.

Community Management: Planning big events takes a lot of thought, careful organization, and the ability to adapt.

Conclusion

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) set the original method for performing Jumuah with a single Adhan, Uthman ibn Affan (RA) recognized the needs of a growing Muslim community and introduced additional Adhans. 

This adjustment illustrates how Islam strikes a balance between following the Sunnah and addressing the real-life challenges faced by the community.

Hadith Reference:

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari

Hadith No: 913

Volume: 02

Page No: 36-37

Book: The Book of Al Jumuah (Friday)

Chapter: One Muadhdhin on Friday.

Narrated By: As-Saib bin Yazid (RA:)

Translator: Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan