The Virtue of Jummah (Friday): A Day of Blessings and Opportunities

Friday, known as Yawm al-Jumu‘ah in Arabic, is a day of immense significance in Islam. It is not merely the end of a workweek but a day filled with divine blessings, communal worship, and spiritual opportunities for Muslims worldwide. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) has chosen Friday as a weekly Eid (celebration) for the Ummah, as mentioned by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), making it a day of unique spiritual importance.

The Significance of Jummah in the Qur'an and Sunnah

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) commands believers in the Qur'an:

“O you who have believed, when [the adhan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu‘ah [Friday], then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if you only knew.” (Surah Al-Jumu‘ah: 62:9)

This verse underscores the priority of the Jummah prayer over worldly engagements. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) further emphasized the excellence of Friday, stating:

“The best day on which the sun has risen is Friday. Adam (Alayhis Salam) was created on Friday, on it he entered Jannah (Paradise), and on it he was taken out from therein. The Hour will not be established but on Friday” (Sahih Muslim)

The Special Virtues of Jummah

1. Forgiveness of Sins: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:

“Whoever performs Wudu’ (ablution) properly, then comes to Jummah prayer, listens attentively to the Khutbah, and refrains from idle talk, his sins between that Friday and the next will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

1. This Hadith highlights the spiritual cleansing power of attending the Jummah prayer.
2. A Moment for Accepted Duas: Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“There is an hour on Friday during which no Muslim stands and prays, asking Allah for something, but Allah will grant it to him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)

1. Scholars have suggested this blessed hour might occur after Asr prayer, offering an opportunity for heartfelt supplications.
2. The Reward of Sending Salawat: Sending blessings upon the Prophet (ﷺ) carries immense rewards, especially on Fridays. He said:

“Increase your sending of Salawat upon me on Friday, for your Salawat are presented to me.” (Sunan Abi Dawood)

Recommended Acts on Friday

1. Performing Ghusl: Taking a ghusl is Sunnah on Fridays.

Faqih bin Sa’d Radhiyallâhu Anhu reported: “Indeed, Rasûlullâh Sallallâhu Alayhi Wa Sallam used to take Ghusl on Fridays, on the days of Arafah, on the days of Eid-ul-Fitr and on the days of Eid-ul Adha.” (Musnad Ahmad Ibn Hanbal)

1. Reciting Surah Al-Kahf: The Prophet (ﷺ) stated:

“Whoever recites Surah Al-Kahf on Friday, a light will shine for him between the two Fridays.” (Sunan al-Nasa'i)

1. Offering Charity: Giving charity on this day carries multiplied rewards, reflecting the blessings and mercy associated with Jummah.
2. Beautifying Oneself: Wearing clean clothes, applying perfume, and maintaining hygiene are Sunnah acts that prepare the believer for this significant day.
3. Arriving Early for Prayer: Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“The one who comes early to the mosque on Friday and listens to the Khutbah will have the reward of offering a camel in charity.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Jummah: A Day of Unity and Community

Jummah prayer serves as a weekly gathering where Muslims come together, fostering unity and brotherhood. It offers a moment to leave behind worldly distractions and focus on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). The Khutbah delivered during the prayer educates and spiritually uplifts the congregation, reinforcing collective faith.

The Emotional Connection to Jummah

As Muslims, Jummah is a source of joy and reflection. It is a day to reconnect with our Creator, seek forgiveness, and strengthen bonds within the community. The anticipation of Jummah inspires believers to prepare spiritually and physically, making it a highlight of the week.

As we embrace the blessings of Jummah, let us reflect on its immense virtues and strive to maximize its rewards. Begin your day with renewed intentions, perform your prayers with sincerity, and extend kindness to those around you. Let Friday become a day of transformation and spiritual growth.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) enable us to recognize and honor the significance of Jummah, forgive our shortcomings, and unite us under His shade of mercy. Ameen.