Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) (p.b.u.h) said, "The taking of a bath on Friday is compulsory for every male (Muslim) who has attained the age of puberty."
The Obligation of Friday Bath
This hadith establishes the compulsory nature of the Friday bath (ghusl al-Jumu'ah) for every adult Muslim male. The phrase "compulsory" (wājib) indicates this is a religious obligation, not merely recommended. Scholars differ whether this is an individual obligation (farḍ 'ayn) or a communal one (farḍ kifāyah), with the stronger opinion being individual obligation.
Scope and Application
The specification "male who has attained the age of puberty" excludes women and children from this particular obligation. Women are encouraged but not required to perform ghusl for Friday prayer.
The wisdom behind this ruling includes purification for congregational prayer, removal of unpleasant odors that may disturb fellow worshippers, and preparation for standing before Allah in the best state of cleanliness.
Timing and Method
The preferred time for this bath is after sunrise on Friday, though it remains valid if performed earlier. The method follows the standard ritual bath (ghusl) as prescribed in Islamic jurisprudence.
This purification, combined with using miswāk, wearing clean clothes, and applying perfume, completes the recommended preparations for the blessed Friday congregation.