The Adhaan (Call to Prayer): Words, Virtues, and Etiquettes

What is the Adhaan?

The Adhaan (often spelled Azan or Adhan) is the Islamic call to the five daily prayers. In Arabic, the word Adhaan means announcement or proclamation. It comes from a root meaning to listen or to inform, indicating that the Adhaan's purpose is to inform everyone that the time for a given prayer has arrived. The Adhaan is typically called from a mosque by a person known as the Mu'adhdhin (the caller to prayer). Traditionally, the mu'adhdhin would ascend a minaret or high place to make the call, but nowadays microphones and speakers are often used so the Adhaan can be heard far and wide.

Every obligatory prayer, from the early morning Fajr to the night Isha, is preceded by the Adhaan. This call is not music or a mere bell, it is a heartfelt human voice delivering a meaningful message. The Adhaan also plays a social role: it gently structures the day of a Muslim and unites the community. When Muslims hear it, whether at home, work, or in the streets, they pause and remember their purpose: to worship Allah. In essence, the Adhaan is a daily reminder of faith, calling people to what Muslims believe is true success, worship and obedience to God.

The Words of the Adhaan and Their Meaning

The Adhaan is composed of specific phrases in Arabic. Each phrase carries deep meaning about the core beliefs of Islam. Here are the words of the Adhaan, with simple transliteration and their meanings:

• Allahu Akbar - "Allah is the Greatest." (repeated four times at the start)

  • This phrase establishes that nothing is more important than Allah. As the first words of the Adhaan, it reminds everyone that the greatness of God surpasses everything else happening at that moment.

• Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah - "I bear witness that there is no god except Allah." (repeated twice)

  • This is the testimony of pure monotheism. It proclaims that only Allah is worthy of worship. In the Adhaan, these words call people to reaffirm their faith in the one true God.

• Ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasul Allah - "I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah." (repeated twice)

  • This testifies that Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is the messenger of God. By declaring this, the Adhaan calls to follow the guidance delivered by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the final prophet in Islam.

• Hayya 'ala as-salah - "Come to prayer." (repeated twice)

  • This is a direct invitation to come and perform the prayer. The phrase "hayya 'ala" means "come forth" or "hurry towards." It's a gentle command, urging believers to drop what they are doing and gather for the prayer, which is a direct act of worship to Allah.

• Hayya 'ala al-falah - "Come to success." (repeated twice)

  • Here, the Adhaan reminds us that true success (falah) lies in worshiping Allah and living a life of righteousness. It's an amazing concept - linking prayer with success. In Islam, success isn't just material; the ultimate success is achieving Allah's pleasure and Paradise. Answering the call to prayer leads to this spiritual success.

• Allahu Akbar - "Allah is the Greatest." (repeated twice)

  • These words are repeated again toward the end, reaffirming God's greatness before closing the Adhaan. It's as if to emphasize: remember, whatever you are doing, Allah is greater than that.

• La ilaha illa Allah - "There is no god except Allah." (said once)

  • The Adhaan ends with this final bold statement of Islamic creed. It is a concluding reminder of the central message: there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah alone.

For the Fajr (dawn) prayer, there is an extra phrase inserted after Hayya 'ala al-falah. The mu'adhdhin calls out:

• As-salatu khayrun min an-nawm - "Prayer is better than sleep." (repeated twice, during the Fajr Adhaan only)
  • At dawn, when people might find it hardest to wake up, these gentle words remind everyone that praying to Allah is better for us than staying in bed. It's a beautiful encouragement to rise and worship, highlighting that spiritual devotion is better than physical comfort.

All together, these phrases make up the Adhaan. When heard, they fill the air with remembrance of God. The Adhaan's words encapsulate the basic truths of Islam, the oneness of God, the messengership of Muhammad (ﷺ), and the call to worship and ultimate success. Each time a Muslim hears these words, it refreshes their faith and intention.

Quranic References to the Adhaan

While the exact wording of the Adhaan is not written out in the Quran, the Holy Quran does refer to the call to prayer and its significance. The Quran acknowledges the practice and the respect it deserves:

"O you who believe! When the call is proclaimed for the prayer on the day of Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off business. That is better for you if you only knew." - (Quran 62:9).

In this verse, Allah commands those obligated to attend Jumu'ah to respond when the Friday call is made: they must leave trade and proceed to the khutbah and prayer. The command is not a command to run physically; it means to give Allah's remembrance priority and go promptly and calmly. The verse is direct evidence for the seriousness of the Friday Adhaan, and it also teaches a wider etiquette for the daily prayers: when the Adhaan is heard, a believer should turn their attention to salah, prepare for it, and not treat the call as background noise. The exact legal duty to attend congregation for the daily prayers is discussed by the madhhabs, but honoring and responding to the Adhaan is part of worship and obedience.

Another verse mentions how some people (in the time of the Prophet and even today) reacted to the call to prayer:

"When you call to prayer, they take it in ridicule and amusement. That is because they are a people who do not understand." - (Quran 5:58).

This verse indicates that the disbelievers or hypocrites during Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)'s time would sometimes mock the Adhaan. They didn't grasp the significance of this sacred call, so they made fun of it. According to commentators like Imam Ibn Kathir, some non-Muslims would jest about the Adhaan or mimic it in a disrespectful way, not understanding its importance. Despite such reactions, the Quranic mention of this behavior shows that the Adhaan was an established practice and important to Muslims. It also comforts believers by saying that such mockery comes from ignorance - "they do not understand." Indeed, those who truly understand the meaning of the Adhaan find it moving, not funny.

These Quranic references highlight that the Adhaan is a valued part of Islamic life. When the Quran tells believers to drop everything and answer the call, it reinforces that the Adhaan is not just background noise, it is a summons from Allah to something much better.

(It's worth noting that the term "Adhaan" in Arabic can mean any announcement. For example, the Quran uses "Adhaan" in a general sense in other contexts, such as an announcement during Hajj in Quran 9:3. But when Muslims mention Adhaan without context, they specifically mean the call to prayer.)

How the Adhaan Began: A Brief Historical Origin

Have you ever wondered how the Adhaan started in the first place? In the early days of Islam, during the time of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in Madinah, the Muslim community used to gather for the five daily prayers without a formal call. They knew approximately when to pray, but there was no standardized announcement. The community discussed ideas for signaling prayer time. Different suggestions were given: some thought of using a horn (like some other faiths did), others suggested a bell (as used by Christians), and some even considered lighting a fire signal on a hill. The Prophet (ﷺ) did not feel comfortable with those methods since they either resembled other religions or weren't practical for every time.

The well-known report about the beginning of the Adhaan is a remarkable event narrated in the Sunan collections and relied upon by the jurists. One of the Prophet's companions, Abdullah ibn Zayd (may Allah be pleased with him), saw a dream in which a man carrying a bell taught him words better than using a bell to gather people for prayer. When Abdullah ibn Zayd told Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the Prophet (PBUH) said that it was a true vision, Allah willing, and instructed him to teach the words to Bilal ibn Rabah (may Allah be pleased with him), because Bilal had a stronger and more carrying voice. The report gives one transmitted form of the Adhaan and Iqamah; other authentic narrations preserve slight variations in wording and repetition, which is why the Sunni schools have a few valid formats.

Why Bilal? Bilal was known for his beautiful, strong voice and his piety. He was also one of the earliest Muslims, famously a freed Abyssinian slave who had endured torture for the sake of Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) chose Bilal to become the first Mu'adhdhin in Islam. This choice itself speaks volumes about Islam's spirit: Bilal, a man of humble origins and dark skin, was given the honor of calling others to prayer, showing that status in Islam is based on faith and character, not race or class.

Bilal climbed up an elevated spot and loudly proclaimed the Adhaan as Abdullah ibn Zayd had heard in his dream. The hearts of the believers were deeply touched by these words echoing for the first time. It is said that Umar ibn Al-Khattab (another prominent companion, known for his strength and later the second Caliph) came hurriedly to the Prophet (ﷺ) upon hearing the Adhaan. Umar exclaimed that he too had seen the exact same dream as Abdullah ibn Zayd had! This double confirmation left no doubt that the Adhaan was a divinely inspired way to call to prayer.

From that day onward, the Adhaan became the recognized call to prayer for Muslims. Bilal called it in Madinah, and the practice spread with Islam. It is best described as a practice established by the approval and instruction of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), not merely as a human invention or a private dream acted upon independently. The story highlights Islam's distinct identity: the Muslim community was given a clear human proclamation of tawhid and prayer rather than bells, horns, or fire signals.

The story of the Adhaan's beginning is not only historically fascinating but also spiritually significant. It shows how Allah helped the early Muslims with a beautiful solution that continues to this day. It's also a miracle-like event for Muslims: a pious dream leading to a practice that millions upon millions adhere to daily. Through the Adhaan's origin, we see Islam's distinct identity and the importance of prayer in the religion.

Virtues and Rewards of the Adhaan

The Adhaan is not just a practical announcement; in Islam it is considered a highly rewardable and meritorious act. Both the one who calls the Adhaan (the mu'adhdhin) and the one who listens and responds earn blessings. Numerous authentic sayings (hadith) of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) describe the virtues of the Adhaan. Let's explore some of these inspiring teachings:

1. Great Reward for Calling Adhaan

The Prophet (ﷺ) taught that the role of the mu'adhdhin is truly honorable. In fact, he said that if people really understood how much reward and blessings were in calling the Adhaan, they would compete for it even by casting lots! One hadith states:

"If people knew what is the reward for making the call (to prayer) and for standing in the first row (in congregation), and if they had no way (to get that chance) except by drawing lots, they would certainly draw lots for it." - (Sahih Bukhari).

This means that being the person who calls others to prayer is such a blessed deed that, if necessary, people would draw straws or lotteries to decide who gets to do it because everyone would wish for that reward. It's mentioned in the same hadith that similarly if people knew the reward of praying early and praying the night and dawn prayers in congregation, they'd also go to great lengths to attend. But notably, Adhaan was placed at the top of this list, an encouragement for Muslims to value the caller to prayer.

2. Forgiveness and Light on the Day of Judgment

Another narration tells us about the amazing reward reaching every corner touched by the Adhaan's sound:

"The caller to prayer is forgiven for as far as his voice reaches, and every wet and dry thing (all creatures) that hears him will attest to it. And he will have a reward similar to those who pray with him." - (Sunan an-Nasa'i).

What a profound merit! The hadith should be understood with reverence and without trying to calculate Allah's reward mechanically. "As far as his voice reaches" shows the vastness of the mu'adhdhin's forgiveness and honor; microphones may help people hear the Adhaan, but the exact extent of reward is left to Allah and is not simply measured by speaker range. The hadith also says that whatever hears the call - described as every "wet and dry" thing - will testify for the caller on the Day of Judgment. Some narrations also mention that the mu'adhdhin receives a reward connected to those who pray because of the call, without diminishing their reward. This is Allah's generosity: by helping others come to prayer, the caller shares in great good.

3. Special Status and Length of Neck on Resurrection

There is a report in Sahih Muslim that on the Day of Resurrection, the mu'adhdhins will have the longest necks among the people. Scholars did not all explain this phrase in one way. Some understood it as a real honor Allah grants them on that Day; others explained it as a sign that they will be distinguished, raised in status, free from humiliation, or looking forward to Allah's mercy. The main point is clear: those who used their voices to call people to worship will be given a special mark of honor.

4. Satan's Flight from the Adhaan

The Adhaan has a spiritual effect of repelling evil. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said that Shaytan (Satan) cannot bear to hear the Adhaan. In an authentic hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) explained:

"When the call to prayer is pronounced, Satan turns and flees, passing wind so that he will not hear the Adhaan. When the call is finished, he returns. When the Iqamah is pronounced, he flees again; then he returns to whisper to the praying person, reminding him of things until he may not know how much he has prayed." - (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, summarized).

This vivid description shows the spiritual force of the Adhaan and Iqamah. The words glorifying Allah repel Shaytan, yet the hadith also warns that he returns to distract a person in prayer. So the Adhaan brings calm and focus, but the believer must still enter the prayer with presence of heart and seek Allah's protection from whispers.

5. Du'a Between Adhaan and Iqamah

The period between the Adhaan and the subsequent Iqamah (the final call right before prayer begins) is a precious time for personal supplications. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) urged believers to take advantage of this window:

"The supplication (du'a) made between the Adhaan and the Iqamah is not rejected." - (Sunan Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi).

This means one should use the few minutes after the Adhaan to pray to Allah personally, ask for blessings, forgiveness, and whatever your heart needs. It's a time when Allah's gates of mercy are wide open. Many Muslims often sit and quietly make du'a as they wait for the prayer to start, believing strongly in this promise.

6. Intercession of the Prophet (ﷺ) for Responding to Adhaan

The Prophet (ﷺ) taught a specific du'a (supplication) to say after the Adhaan, and he promised a great reward for those who say it with sincerity. After the Adhaan, it is recommended to send peace and blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) (saying "Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammad") and then recite:

"Allahumma Rabba haadhihi-d-da'wat it-taammati was-salatil qaa'imati, aati Muhammadan al-wasilata wal-fadilata, wab'ath-hu maqaman mahmoodan alladhi wa'adtah." (O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and the prayer to be established, grant Muhammad the Wasilah (a station of privilege) and excellence, and raise him to the honored station You have promised him.)* - *(Prophetic du'a after Adhaan)

About whoever says this du'a after hearing the call, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"Whoever says (this supplication) after hearing the call to prayer, my intercession will be guaranteed for him on the Day of Resurrection." - (Sahih Bukhari).

Think about that, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) will intercede for the person on Judgment Day, asking Allah to forgive them and enter them into Paradise. There can hardly be a greater reward or honor for a believer than attaining the Prophet's intercession. It shows how important it is to respond to the Adhaan not just by coming to pray, but also by making this brief supplication with a sincere heart.

7. The Adhaan as a Form of Dhikr (Remembrance)

Calling the Adhaan is in itself an act of remembering Allah and proclaiming the truth. Even if someone is alone or in a far-off place, calling the Adhaan is beneficial. There's a touching hadith where the Prophet (ﷺ) told a companion who was traveling with his sheep:

"When you are among your sheep in the desert (far from a mosque) and you want to pray, raise your voice with the call to prayer (Adhaan), for no jinn, human, or anything hears the voice of the mu'adhdhin except that it will bear witness for him on the Day of Resurrection." - (Narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari, by Abu Sa'id al-Khudri).

This encourages even a lone worshipper to proclaim the Adhaan because of the immense witness and reward it carries. It humanizes the practice, even a solitary shepherd's call is not lost; it reverberates in the spiritual realm.

All these virtues paint a clear picture: The Adhaan is a source of great blessings. It is beloved by Allah, feared by Satan, and a mark of honor for those who call it. Muslims therefore hold the Adhaan in high esteem. Mosques often have a designated mu'adhdhin because it's a trusted and respected position. And many Muslims who cannot call the Adhaan themselves still earn reward by repeating after the caller and making the recommended du'a, thereby sharing in the blessings that the Adhaan brings.

Etiquettes and Manners Related to the Adhaan

Given the Adhaan's significance, Islam encourages certain etiquettes (adab) for both the one who calls the Adhaan and those who hear it. These etiquettes help maximize the spiritual benefit and show respect for this sacred call.

Etiquettes for the Caller (Mu'adhdhin)

• Sincerity and Purity: The mu'adhdhin should call the Adhaan seeking the pleasure of Allah, not as a performance or to show off. It's a form of worship. It is also recommended (though not required) that he be in a state of wudu (ablution) while calling the Adhaan, out of respect for the act of calling people to prayer.

• Proper Timing: An obvious but important point - the Adhaan must be called at the correct time for each prayer. In Islam, prayer times are tied to positions of the sun (dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, nightfall). In the past, the mu'adhdhin would observe the sky, and today we have schedules and clocks. Calling the Adhaan on time is a trust; people are relying on it to know when to pray.

• Facing the Qiblah: It is considered respectful and recommended that the mu'adhdhin face the Qiblah (the direction of the Kaaba in Makkah) while calling the Adhaan. The Qiblah is the direction Muslims face in prayer, so facing it during Adhaan symbolizes directing the call towards the sacred center of worship.

• Using a Loud, Clear Voice: The Adhaan should be called loudly and clearly so that it can reach as many people as possible. Traditionally, mu'adhdhins would even cup their hands around their mouth or use their fingers in their ears and turn right and left when saying certain lines like "Hayya 'ala as-salah" and "Hayya 'ala al-falah" to project the voice in different directions. A pleasant tone is encouraged, but the Adhaan is not meant to be a song with instruments; it is a melodious chant of devotion. The Prophet (ﷺ) said to choose a person with a good voice for Adhaan, as it adds to the beauty of the call.

• Pausing Appropriately: The mu'adhdhin should pause briefly between phrases. For instance, after each Allahu Akbar or each line, take a short pause. This gives listeners a chance to repeat after him, and it makes the words clear and distinct. Rushing through the Adhaan is discouraged; it should be unhurried and dignified.

• Consistency and Punctuality: Ideally, the mu'adhdhin should call the Adhaan consistently for each prayer every day, or at least for the prayers assigned to him. It develops a sense of duty and reliability. In many communities, being a mu'adhdhin can be a lifelong honor. For example, a person might call Adhaan for the local mosque for decades, becoming well known for it. This consistency also echoes through the soul of the mu'adhdhin - many testify that it brings them great happiness and discipline in their own worship.

• No Permanent Additions or Alterations: The mu'adhdhin should keep to the transmitted words of the Adhaan and should not make extra devotional phrases part of the Adhaan itself. Beautifying the voice is allowed within dignity, but adding words as though they are part of the Adhaan undermines the Sunnah and the unity of the call. There is a limited, well-known allowance in hardship: in cold, rain, mud, strong wind, or similar difficulty, the Prophet (PBUH) allowed the announcement "Pray in your dwellings" or "Pray in your homes/camps". The reports mention it being said after the Adhaan or, in one narration, in place of "Hayya 'ala as-salah". This is not a routine addition; it is a concession to inform people that attending the mosque is excused in hardship.

Etiquettes for the Listeners (Responding to the Adhaan)

Not only does the caller have guidelines; those who hear the Adhaan also have recommended manners to follow. This helps a believer engage with the Adhaan actively rather than just hearing it in the background.

• Stop and Listen Attentively: When the Adhaan begins, it's respectful to pause conversations, turn off music or distractions, and listen. We should remember it's Allah's name and call being proclaimed. Talking or ignoring the Adhaan is considered poor manners. By listening actively, one's heart absorbs the message of the Adhaan.

• Repeat the Words of the Adhaan: Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) explicitly taught us to repeat after the mu'adhdhin. In a hadith, he said:

  "Whenever you hear the Adhaan, say what the mu'adhdhin is saying." - (Sahih Bukhari)

  So if the mu'adhdhin says "Allahu Akbar", you softly say "Allahu Akbar" too. We do this for each line. It's a way to participate in the call and affirm every statement. There are two slight differences:

  • When the mu'adhdhin says "Hayya 'ala as-salah" and "Hayya 'ala al-falah" (the lines meaning "come to prayer" and "come to success"), instead of repeating those phrases, the listener is encouraged to say: "La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah", which means "There is no power or might except by Allah." This phrase is a humble response, acknowledging that we need Allah's help to come to prayer and succeed. It complements the call: the mu'adhdhin is calling us, and we respond admitting we can only move towards goodness with Allah's assistance.
  • During the Fajr Adhaan, when the mu'adhdhin says "As-salatu khayrun min an-nawm", the listener should repeat the same words according to the general instruction to repeat after the mu'adhdhin. Some people say other phrases of affirmation, but no special response to this line is established as strongly as simply repeating it.

• Send Salutations upon the Prophet (ﷺ): After the Adhaan is completed, it is recommended for the listener to say "Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammad wa 'ala aali Muhammad" (O Allah, send peace and blessings upon Muhammad and his family). This is because the Prophet (ﷺ) said that whenever we hear his name, we should send blessings upon him. And specifically after Adhaan, he encouraged sending salawat on him.

• Recite the Du'a After Adhaan: As mentioned in the virtues section, saying the special supplication (du'a) after Adhaan is a key etiquette. To repeat it in English: "O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and the prayer to be established, give Muhammad the Wasilah and virtue, and raise him to the praised station that You promised." This du'a only takes about 10 seconds to say, but carries the reward of the Prophet's intercession. It's highly recommended and is a way of connecting the Adhaan to our hope in the Hereafter.

• Personal Supplication: One can also use the time after Adhaan for additional personal du'as, as this time is very likely to be answered by Allah. So while waiting for the prayer to start (during that gap when people might be praying sunnah prayers or just sitting), a believer can ask Allah for their needs, forgiveness, guidance, etc., with the optimism that Allah is hearing them favorably at that moment.

• Head to the Prayer: The main purpose of the Adhaan is to gather people for salah. For Jumu'ah, those legally obligated to attend must leave trade and go. For the five daily prayers, the duty of attending congregation is discussed by the madhhabs: some emphasize it as obligatory for able adult men, while others classify it as a highly emphasized Sunnah or communal duty, but all agree that congregation is a major symbol of Islam and should not be neglected. Women, the sick, travelers, and others may have valid concessions depending on circumstance. In every case, the Adhaan should move a Muslim to prepare promptly: make wudu, go to the mosque when expected, or arrange a clean place to pray on time.

• Avoid Distractions and Disrespect: It is best to avoid unnecessary conversation, entertainment, and frivolous activity during the Adhaan so the heart can respond to Allah's remembrance. Necessary speech or continuing to eat is not automatically sinful in itself, but deliberately ignoring the call is spiritually harmful. One should never mock, distort, or imitate the Adhaan in a joking way; that is sinful and can be very serious because it shows contempt for a symbol of Islam. Children should be taught to respect the Adhaan and to respond to it with dignity.

By following these etiquettes, a Muslim turns the Adhaan from just a background sound into a full spiritual experience. The caller gains reward for calling, and the listeners gain reward for responding. The whole atmosphere becomes charged with iman (faith) and dedication.

Scholarly Insights and Differences Among Schools of Thought

Islamic scholarship over the centuries has provided detailed insights into the Adhaan, its rulings, variations, and deeper meanings. It's noteworthy that all the major Sunni schools of thought (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali) agree on the basics of the Adhaan's importance and wording, but they have minor differences in practice and interpretation. These differences are not contradictions in beliefs, but rather variations in how the Adhaan is performed or its technical status.

1. The Status of Adhaan (Obligation or Sunnah?): Scholars universally regard the Adhaan as a very important act, but they discuss whether it's mandatory or an emphasized Sunnah. Many scholars consider the Adhaan for the five daily prayers to be a collective duty (fard kifayah) for a Muslim community. This means in each locality, someone must perform it so that the obligation is fulfilled; if no one at all raises the Adhaan, the whole group is at fault. This view is to ensure that the Adhaan is established and not neglected. On the other hand, some classify it as a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah), highly recommended but not strictly obligatory on each and every individual. For example, the Hanafi school traditionally holds that Adhaan (especially when praying in a group) is very close to obligatory, and it should not be abandoned. In practice, virtually every mosque performs Adhaan, so the distinction is mostly theoretical. But this discussion shows how seriously scholars took the Adhaan as part of the religion.

2. Variations in Wording and Repetition: The core phrases of the Adhaan are agreed upon, but there's a well-known slight variation taught in some hadith that certain schools follow. This is regarding how many times each phrase is repeated and something called "Tarji'". Here are three well-known Sunni formats:

• Adhaan without Tarji' (preferred in the Hanafi and Hanbali schools): This is the form detailed earlier: Allahu Akbar 4 times, the two Shahada phrases 2 times each, Hayya 'ala as-salah 2 times, Hayya 'ala al-falah 2 times, then Allahu Akbar 2 times and La ilaha illa Allah once. Counted as separate sentences, this is 15 phrases. It is linked to the Adhaan of Bilal and the report of Abdullah ibn Zayd.

• Adhaan with Tarji' and four opening takbirs (preferred in the Shafi'i school): In this form, Allahu Akbar is said 4 times at the beginning. Then the mu'adhdhin says the two Shahada phrases twice each in a lower voice, and repeats them twice each aloud. The rest continues as usual: both Hayya phrases twice each, Allahu Akbar twice, and La ilaha illa Allah once. This totals 19 phrases and is based on the report of Abu Mahdhurah (may Allah be pleased with him).

• Maliki Adhaan with Tarji' and two opening takbirs: The Maliki school commonly begins with Allahu Akbar 2 times, then uses tarji' for the Shahada phrases: the testimonies are first said in a lower voice and then repeated aloud. The remaining phrases are then said as usual. This totals 17 phrases when counted separately. Malikis relied heavily on the practice transmitted in Madinah along with the relevant reports.

Tarji' therefore means repeating the two testimonies of faith: first quietly or in a lower voice, then aloud. These formats are all valid Sunni forms of Adhaan, not competing creeds or contradictions.

• "Prayer is better than sleep" in Fajr: The Sunni madhhabs recognize "As-salatu khayrun min an-nawm" as part of the Fajr Adhaan, based on transmitted reports such as the teaching of Abu Mahdhurah and the early practice of the mu'adhdhins. This phrase is often called tathwib or taswib. It is for Fajr, not for the other prayers. Jurists discuss details such as its placement when two dawn calls are made, but mainstream Sunni practice includes it in the dawn Adhaan. Some non-Sunni traditions do not treat it as part of the Adhaan; among Sunnis it is a well-established practice.

Important to note: All these versions are considered correct. A respected scholar, Imam Shafi'i, mentioned that if an Adhaan has the correct known phrases (in any of the transmitted forms), it counts and people should respond to it. The differences arose because the Prophet (ﷺ) taught more than one companion slightly different ways on different occasions (for example, Bilal's version and Abu Mahdhurah's version). The companions passed on those teachings, hence the schools adopted what reached them or what their Imams preferred as closer to the Prophet's main practice. But no one says "my Adhaan version is right and yours is wrong", they're all rooted in hadith.

3. Timing of Adhaan for Special Prayers: Generally, Adhaan is for the five daily prayers. For Jumu'ah (Friday noon prayer), historically there was an extra Adhaan introduced in the time of Caliph Uthman (third Caliph) to help gather people earlier due to the city's expansion. Today in many places, you'll hear two Adhaans on Friday: one a bit earlier as a reminder and one right when the Imam is about to deliver the sermon. This practice is considered permissible and is followed in several countries. It's based on accepted historical practice.

There is no Adhaan or Iqamah for Eid prayers, funeral (Janazah) prayers, Tarawih, or ordinary optional prayers, because no authentic Sunnah establishes Adhaan or Iqamah for them. Some special congregational prayers may have a general announcement, such as "as-salatu jami'ah" for the eclipse prayer, but that is not the Adhaan. Tarawih in Ramadan begins by arrangement or announcement, not by a formal Iqamah like the obligatory prayers.

4. Women and Adhaan: In the classical Sunni schools, women are not required to give the public Adhaan, and the public call for mixed congregational prayer has been a male duty and public symbol. For women praying alone or in a women-only congregation, the madhhabs differ: some Shafi'i and Hanbali jurists allow a woman to give a quiet Adhaan or Iqamah for women, especially the Iqamah, while many Hanafi and Maliki jurists do not recommend it and may deem it disliked. Therefore it should not be presented as one uniform ruling. The safe summary is: women are not obliged to call the Adhaan; they should not give a loud public Adhaan for men; and if women pray together privately, they may follow the ruling of reliable scholars in their school or community.

5. Adhaan in Multiple Mosques: In Muslim cities, you'll often hear many mosques calling Adhaan at the same time (or in staggered times if clocks differ slightly). This is normal and good, it's not considered a problem if multiple voices call. In fact, it creates a lovely atmosphere in places with many mosques (think of a chorus of Adhaan echoing). Some scholars note that once an Adhaan is given by a nearby mosque, it's technically enough for a whole area, but the custom is each mosque or prayer space still gives its own Adhaan out of tradition and to ensure anyone who missed the first hears another.

6. Interpretation by Scholars: Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-'Asqalani (who wrote a commentary on Sahih Bukhari) and Imam Nawawi (who explained Sahih Muslim and wrote fiqh manuals) have highlighted the Adhaan's spiritual significance. They point out that the Adhaan includes both creedal statements and calls to action, which is a perfect summary of Islam: belief should lead to action (prayer). Modern scholars likewise note how the Adhaan's message answers major existential questions: Who is greatest? Allah. What is our purpose? To worship (come to prayer). What is success? Success is in responding to God. This is why the Adhaan has a universal appeal and often emotionally moves even those who don't understand all the words. The combination of its meaning, its melodious form, and its consistency (never changing with fads or trends) makes the Adhaan a constant beacon of truth.

In summary, the slight differences in how the Adhaan is performed do not affect its core purpose or beauty. They reflect a richness in Islamic tradition and jurisprudence, where different authentic practices were preserved by different communities. No matter the school of thought, a Muslim listening to any valid Adhaan will recognize it and should respond. Scholars throughout history have agreed that the Adhaan is a Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) that the Muslim community must keep alive. Thanks to their diligence and love for the Adhaan, this call to prayer has resonated unchanged through over 14 centuries, guiding the faithful to their daily meetings with the Divine.

Conclusion: Living with the Adhaan

The Adhaan is far more than a sequence of words or a signal for prayer times, it is a living tradition that nurtures the soul of the Muslim community. From the moment it was first proclaimed by Bilal in Madinah, to the present moment where it echoes from mosques in every corner of the globe, the Adhaan has been a constant companion of the believers. It has called kings and commoners, nomads and city-dwellers, young and old, to stand shoulder-to-shoulder in worship of the One Almighty God.

In our modern lives, filled with noise and busyness, the Adhaan is a welcome reminder of what truly matters. When a Muslim hears "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar", it's a chance to pause and recalibrate one's heart. It pulls us away from the dunya (worldly affairs), work, entertainment, worries, and it directs us toward peace and success through salah (prayer). It is remarkable that in the age of smartphone alarms and digital reminders, the centuries-old human voice of the Adhaan still reigns as the preferred announcement for prayer. This itself shows the wisdom and beauty in the Islamic way.

For Muslims, the Adhaan holds personal memories and experiences too. Many recall the comfort it brings in distress, or the joy of hearing it after arriving in a new country. Some families also recite the Adhaan softly in a newborn's ear as a way of beginning the child's life with words of tawhid; this is a widespread custom, but the specific hadith reports about it are disputed and many hadith scholars consider them weak, so it should not be stated with the same certainty as the established Adhaan for prayer. The impact of the Adhaan on a believer's heart is profound: it can bring tears to the eyes, calm to the mind, and motivation to the limbs to go and pray. It also connects Muslims globally; no matter what language we speak, the words of the Adhaan in Arabic are recognized in meaning and spirit by Muslims everywhere.

Moving forward, we as Muslims should strive to uphold and cherish the Adhaan. Practically, this means ensuring that the call to prayer is made in our communities regularly and on time by someone authorized and able to do it properly. If a mosque or prayer group genuinely needs a mu'adhdhin and you know the wording and etiquettes, step forward to help with humility and coordination, remembering the great rewards promised for it. In our homes, we may call the Adhaan ourselves when praying, especially for a small congregation; a recording can serve as a reminder or create a familiar atmosphere, but it does not replace a real Adhaan where the Sunnah call is prescribed. Importantly, we should teach our children what the Adhaan means, how to respond to it, and how to love it. This is part of preserving our faith across generations.

The Adhaan also offers a gentle form of dawah (inviting others to Islam). When non-Muslim neighbors or friends ask about it, explaining the Adhaan can open their eyes to the values of Islam. The words speak for themselves: the Adhaan declares God's greatness, the essence of the faith (shahada), and the concept of true success. Many people have been captivated by hearing the Adhaan's melody and message, leading them to learn more or even enter Islam. It stands as a testament to the truth of Islam in every town, openly announcing the core of our belief five times daily.

In conclusion, the Adhaan is a gift and a mercy. It punctuates our busy days with moments of remembrance. It is a call from our Lord, transmitted by a noble caller. By answering that call (with our hearts, tongues, and actions) we find success in this life and the next. As Muslims, we should feel gratitude for the Adhaan and make it a source of inspiration. The next time you hear the Adhaan, let its words sink in. Respond with enthusiasm and humility. Let it remind you that you are part of a faith that elevates the simple act of calling out to worship into a deed of immense reward. May we always be among those who answer the call, and may the Adhaan's beautiful sound continue to illuminate the world with faith and peace. Ameen.

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