The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Bilal pronounces the Adhan at night, so eat and drink (Suhur) till Ibn Um Maktum pronounces the Adhan."
Call to Prayers (Adhaan)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 622, 623
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Bilal pronounces the Adhan at night, so eat and drink (Suhur) till Ibn Um Maktum pronounces the Adhan."
Commentary on the Timing of Suhur
This noble hadith establishes the distinction between the first Adhan of Bilal and the second Adhan of Ibn Um Maktum. Bilal's Adhan was given before the true dawn to awaken the believers for night prayers and preparation for fasting, while Ibn Um Maktum's Adhan marked the actual beginning of Fajr time when eating must cease.
Wisdom Behind Two Adhans
The wisdom manifests in facilitating worship: Bilal's early call serves as a gentle reminder for Tahajjud prayer and Suhur preparation, while Ibn Um Maktum's call precisely defines the commencement of the fasting period. This demonstrates the Shariah's compassion in making religious obligations manageable.
Legal Implications
Scholars derive from this that the true prohibition of eating and drinking begins with the second Adhan at actual dawn. The time between both Adhans remains permissible for Suhur, emphasizing the importance of taking this blessed meal as close to Fajr as possible without exceeding its appointed time.