Bilal was commanded (by the Messenger of Allah) to repeat (the phrases of) Adhan twice and once in Iqama. The narrator said: I made a mention of it before Ayyub who said: Except for saying: Qamat-is-Salat [the time for prayer has come].
The Book of Prayers - Sahih Muslim 378a
This narration from Sahih Muslim details the divine instruction given to Bilal ibn Rabah, the esteemed mu'adhdhin of the Prophet ﷺ, regarding the formulation of the call to prayer.
Commentary on the Adhan Repetition
The command for Bilal to recite the phrases of Adhan twice demonstrates the emphasis on public proclamation and ensuring the call reaches all inhabitants. This repetition serves to awaken the heedless, remind the forgetful, and announce the entry of prayer time with clarity and emphasis.
The dual repetition establishes a sunnah that has been preserved throughout Islamic history, creating a distinct auditory pattern that distinguishes the Adhan from ordinary speech and elevates its spiritual significance.
Distinction in Iqama
The instruction to recite Iqama phrases once (except "Qad qamat-is-Salat") reflects the different purposes of Adhan and Iqama. While Adhan is a general announcement for the distant congregation, Iqama serves as the immediate signal for those already present in the mosque.
The exception noted by Ayyub - that "Qad qamat-is-Salat" should be said twice - maintains emphasis on the immediacy of prayer commencement, balancing brevity with necessary emphasis for the congregation's preparation.
Legal Implications
This hadith establishes the foundational practice for the number of repetitions in both Adhan and Iqama. Scholars have derived from this that the standard Adhan consists of fifteen phrases when counted with repetitions, while the Iqama has eleven phrases.
The preservation of this Prophetic instruction through reliable chains of narration ensures the continuity of this sacred tradition in its authentic form across the Muslim world.