The Book of Prayer - Friday

Sahih Muslim 846 a

Exposition of the Hadith

The command to perform ghusl (ritual bath) on Friday is established as a strong recommendation (sunnah mu'akkadah) for every adult Muslim who attends the Friday congregational prayer. This purification elevates the spiritual state of the worshipper and demonstrates respect for the sanctity of Jumu'ah, the master of days.

Scholarly Interpretation

Imam An-Nawawi clarifies that while the majority of scholars consider Friday bath to be emphatically recommended, it does not reach the level of absolute obligation (wajib). The wisdom behind this injunction includes physical cleanliness for congregation and spiritual preparation for the weekly Islamic gathering where Allah's remembrance is paramount.

The optimal time for this bath is after the dawn (Fajr) prayer on Friday, though it remains valid throughout the day. Combining this purification with wearing clean clothes and applying perfume completes the recommended acts of preparation for the blessed Friday prayer.