The Adhan - The Magnificent Call

What is the Adhan?

The word "adhan" in Arabic means "to inform" or "to announce." In Islamic Shari'ah, it is a form of worshiping Allah with specific words that announce the beginning of the time for an obligatory prayer.

The adhan serves as a unique and universal call that carries a profound message. It is a reminder of our faith and a call to worship, refreshing our belief in Allah.

"And [it is] an announcement from Allah and His Messenger to the people on the day of the greater pilgrimage..." (Surah At-Tawbah, verse 3)

The Words of the Adhan and Their Meanings

"Allaahu Akbar"

Allah is Greater

This is said four times, an open statement implying Allah is greater than anything you are doing at the time of prayer. He is greater than all worries, all business, and all people. You must leave everything and rush to His call.

"Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha il-Allaah"

I bear witness that there is no god but Allah

This declaration signifies that you will not worship anything or anyone other than Allah. You place obedience to Him above all else - your job, your desires, your success, your pleasures. Worshiping Allah is the greatest value in a Muslim's life.

"Ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasoolullaah"

I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah

This is a testimony that Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, is the final messenger of Allah, following a line of prophets like Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. His message confirms the core belief in the oneness of Allah.

"Hayya 'aalas-salaah"

Come to prayer

This is a direct command to hurry to prayer. Prayer is a break from worldly desires, a direct link between a servant and their Lord. It brings peace and comfort, helping a person to continue life with a contented and reassured soul.

"Hayya 'alal-falaah"

Come to success

This is an invitation to true success and prosperity. The ultimate success is entry into Paradise. This call reminds us that our worldly work is a means to this end, and that hard work in this life is required for success in the Hereafter.

"Laa ilaaha il-Allaah"

There is no god but Allah

Just as the adhan begins with Allah's greatness and monotheism, it ends with them. This noble meaning remains firmly rooted in the souls of believers, ensuring they are not distracted by the fleeting pleasures of this world.

Virtues of the Adhan

The adhan holds a great status in Islam, being one of its visible rituals. It is a communal obligation, and the one who performs it, the muezzin, has immense merit in this world and the Hereafter.

The muezzins will be resurrected with a distinct sign on the Day of Resurrection, to honor them.
The muezzin is forgiven to the extent his voice reaches, and everything that hears his voice will bear witness for him.
The call is an invitation to Ihsan (perfection), success, and salvation from the King of all kings.
Responding to the call reminds people of their humanity, brotherhood, unity, and equality.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "If the people knew what is the reward of making the call... they would certainly cast lots for it."

The Story of the Adhan

Prayer has been an obligatory worship in all heavenly laws. Before the Adhan, different nations used various methods to call people to prayer, such as blowing a horn or striking a bell.

After the migration to Medina, the Muslims needed a way to gather for congregational prayers. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) consulted his companions. They considered the Jewish horn and the Christian bell, but these were not accepted.

One night, a companion named Abdullah bin Zaid had a dream where a man taught him the words of the adhan. He came running to the Prophet to tell him about it. The Prophet confirmed it was a true dream and ordered Abdullah to teach the words to Bilal ibn Rabah, who had a strong and beautiful voice. From that day on, the adhan became the official call to prayer for Muslims worldwide.

Famous Muezzins

Bilal ibn Rabah

The First Muezzin of Islam

A slave who was tortured for his faith, but remained steadfast. He was freed by Abu Bakr and later chosen by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to be the first muezzin due to his beautiful voice. His story is a powerful testament to Islam's rejection of racism and its emphasis on piety over lineage.

Abdullah Ibn Umm Maktum

The Blind Muezzin

A blind companion who was eager to learn. An incident involving him led to the revelation of a chapter in the Qur'an, teaching the importance of giving attention to those who seek knowledge. He was appointed as a muezzin alongside Bilal and served as a leader in Medina on many occasions.

Abu Mahdhoorah

The Muezzin of Makkah

Initially a non-believer who mocked the adhan, Abu Mahdhoorah was inspired by the Prophet's wisdom and kindness. Recognizing his beautiful voice, the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught him the adhan and appointed him as the muezzin of Mecca. His story highlights the transformative power of faith and the Prophet's excellent character.

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The Adhan, The Magnificent Call