Repeating the Adhan with the Muadhdhin

Repeating the Adhan After the Muadhdhin

Introduction

The Adhan, or call to prayer, stands out as one of the most iconic symbols of Islam. It serves as a daily reminder for Muslims to pause and engage in prayer. 

Beyond its spiritual significance, the Adhan is also deeply intertwined with various Sunnah practices that pertain to how it is recited and responded to.

One notable practice is the tradition of echoing the words of the Adhan after the Muadhdhin, or caller. 

This article delves into a well-documented narration from Sahih Al-Bukhari, highlighting an instance where Muawiya bin Abi Sufyan (RA) was seated on the pulpit and repeated the Adhan as he heard it. 

He emphasized that this was precisely how the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would conduct himself during the call to prayer.

Narrated Abu Umama bin Sahl bin Hunaif: 

I heard Muawiya bin Abi Sufyan (RA) (repeating the wording of the Adhan) while he was sitting on the pulpit. When the Muadhdhin pronounced the Adhan saying, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Muawiya said: Allahu Akbar, Muawiya said: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. 

And when the Muadhdhin said, Ash hadu an la ilaha illallah (I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah), Muawiya said, Ash hadu anna Muhammadan Rasul Ullah (I testify that Muhammad is Allah's Messenger), Muawiya said, And (so do) I. 

When the Adhan was finished, Muawiya said, O people, when the Muadhdhin pronounced the Adhan, I heard Allah's Messenger (PBUH) on this very pulpit saying what you have just heard me saying.

Lessons from the Hadith

Following the Sunnah: Muawiya (RA) showed us that repeating the Adhan after the Muadhdhin is a practice that was established by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Respecting the Adhan: The Hadith stresses that even an Imam, while giving the Friday sermon, must answer the call of the Adhan.

Unity in Worship: Reiterating these words helps create a shared spiritual environment, encouraging Muslims to stay connected with the remembrance of Allah.

Practical Guidance: This Hadith indicates that all Muslims, whether they are inside a mosque or in any other place, are encouraged to reply to the Adhan using the specific phrases that have been prescribed.

Conclusion

This Hadith from Sahih Al-Bukhari highlights the importance of responding to the Adhan by echoing the words of the Muadhdhin. The actions of Muawiya (RA) serve as a clear example of how Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) practiced this, underscoring that this Sunnah is something every Muslim should uphold.

By engaging in this simple yet impactful Sunnah, a believer not only brings to life a cherished prophetic tradition but also deepens their spiritual bond with Allah every time they hear the call to prayer.

Hadith Reference:

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari

Hadith No: 914

Volume: 02

Page No: 37

Book: The Book of Al Jumuah (Friday)

Chapter: The Imam, while sitting on the pulpit, repeats the wordings of the Adhan when he hears it.

Narrated By: Abu Umama bin Sahl bin Hunaif (RA:)

Translator: Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan