The Excellence of Friday Prayer

From the Book: Friday Prayer | Author: Sahih al-Bukhari | Hadith Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 930

The Textual Analysis

This noble hadith establishes the obligation of performing two rak'at of prayer upon entering the mosque during the Friday sermon. The Prophet's command, "Get up and pray two rak'at," demonstrates that this prayer takes precedence over immediately sitting for the khutbah.

Scholarly Commentary

The scholars of Islam have derived from this hadith that the Tahiyyat al-Masjid (prayer of greeting the mosque) remains obligatory even during the Friday sermon. This ruling emphasizes the sanctity of the mosque and the importance of entering it with proper reverence.

Imam al-Nawawi comments in his Sharh Sahih Muslim that this hadith proves the continuity of Tahiyyat al-Masjid during all times, including when the imam is delivering the khutbah. The prayer serves as a means of seeking blessings and preparing the heart to receive the sermon.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari explains that the wisdom behind this ruling is to maintain the proper etiquette of mosque entry while not completely missing the khutbah, as two rak'at can be performed quickly before settling to listen.

Legal Rulings Derived

1. The obligation of Tahiyyat al-Masjid remains in effect during the Friday khutbah

2. The prayer should be performed briefly to minimize missing the sermon

3. This ruling applies to all who enter the mosque, regardless of their status

4. The two rak'at should be performed before sitting, as indicated by the Prophet's command

Spiritual Benefits

This practice teaches Muslims to prioritize their connection with Allah even when engaged in important religious gatherings. It instills the habit of beginning every mosque visit with prayer, thus purifying one's intentions and preparing the soul to receive divine guidance through the khutbah that follows.