Understanding Adhan
What is Adhan?
Adhan, also spelled as Azan, is the Islamic call to prayer. It serves as a signal for Muslims to gather for obligatory prayers.
Adhan/ Azan In Arabic, English , and English Transliteration
Transliteration:
Allahu Akbar (four times)
Translation:
Allah is the Greatest. (Recited four times)
Transliteration:
Ashhadu alla ilaha illallah (twice)
Translation:
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. (Recited twice)
Transliteration:
Ashhadu anna Muhammadar Rasulullah (twice)
Translation:
I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. (Recited twice)
Transliteration:
Hayya ‘alas-Salah (twice)
Translation:
Come to Prayer. (Recited twice)
Transliteration:
Hayya ‘alal-Falah (twice)
Translation:
Come to success.(Recited twice)
Transliteration:
Allahu Akbar (twice)
Translation:
Allah is the Greatest.(Recited twice)
Transliteration:
La ilaha illallah
Translation:
There is none worthy of worship except Allah.
Fajar Adhan
During the Adhan for Fajr Prayer, the Mu’adhdhin should also recite the words given below twice after saying, Hayya ‘alal-Falah:
Transliteration:
Assalatu khairum-minan-naum (twice)
Translation:
Prayer is better than sleep.(Recited twice)
The Significance of Adhan
Adhan holds great importance in Islam as it reminds believers to pause from their worldly activities and turn their focus towards prayer and devotion to Allah.
How to Respond to Adhan
The Proper Response
When hearing the Adhan, Muslims are encouraged to respond by repeating key phrases after the muezzin (the person who calls the Adhan).
The Response Phrases
Muslims commonly reply to the Adhan with phrases like “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest), “Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah” (I bear witness that there is no god but Allah), and “Ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah” (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah).
The Importance of Responding
Responding to the Adhan is considered a virtuous act in Islam, signifying readiness to perform prayer and obedience to Allah’s command.
Do’s and Don’ts During Adhan
Do’s
- Listen Attentively: Pay attention to the Adhan and respond promptly.
- Repeat After the Muezzin: Repeat the phrases of the Adhan after the muezzin.
- Make Dua: Use the time after Adhan to make personal supplications (dua).
Don’ts
- Engage in Conversation: Refrain from engaging in unnecessary conversations during the Adhan.
- Ignore the Call: It is discouraged to ignore or neglect the Adhan.
Dua After Adhan /Azan
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, “Whoever says this after the adhān shall receive my intercession on the Day of Judgement” (Bukhārī).
Transliteration:
Allahumma Rabba hadhihidda‘watit-tammati wassalatil qa’imati, ati Muhammada-nil-wasilata wal-fadilata waddarajatar-rafi‘ata, wab‘ath-hu maqamam-mahmuda-nilladhi wa’attahu. Innaka la tukhliful mi‘ad.
(Bukhari, Kitabul-Adhan)
Translation:
O Allah, Lord of this Perfect Call, and of the Congregational Prayer, make Muhammad a means of our access to You, and bless him with excellence and the lofty office, and grant him the most exalted station Thou hast promised him. Verily, Thou goest not back on Thy promise.
Performing Salah (Prayer)
After hearing the Adhan, Muslims proceed to perform the obligatory prayer corresponding to the time of the call.
Making Personal Supplications
Following the Adhan, it is common for Muslims to engage in personal supplications, seeking blessings and guidance from Allah.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the significance of Adhan in Islam?
Adhan serves as a reminder for Muslims to engage in prayer and devotion to Allah.
Can Adhan be called for all five daily prayers?
Yes, Adhan is called for each of the five obligatory prayers in Islam.
What if I miss the Adhan?
If one misses the Adhan, they should still perform the prayer upon realization.
Are there variations in the Adhan across different regions?
Yes, there may be slight variations in the wording and melody of the Adhan based on cultural and regional differences.
Can women give the Adhan?
While it is not common for women to give the Adhan in Islamic traditions.
Is it obligatory to respond to the Adhan?
While responding to the Adhan is encouraged, it is not obligatory.
How to Respond to Adhan
Read the Blog
Conclusion
Responding to the Adhan is not only a religious duty but also a spiritual experience for Muslims. By understanding the significance of Adhan and observing the proper etiquettes associated with it, believers can deepen their connection to their faith and community.
