He heard Aws bin Aws, the Companion of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: "The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Whoever performs Ghusl on Friday and washes (Ghassala), and comes early to the Masjid, walking not riding, and sits close to the Imam and listens attentively and does not engage in idle speech, for every step he takes he will have (the reward of) a year's worth of good deeds.'"
The Book of Jumu'ah (Friday Prayer) - Sunan an-Nasa'i 1384
He heard Aws bin Aws, the Companion of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: "The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Whoever performs Ghusl on Friday and washes (Ghassala), and comes early to the Masjid, walking not riding, and sits close to the Imam and listens attentively and does not engage in idle speech, for every step he takes he will have (the reward of) a year's worth of good deeds.'"
Commentary on the Virtues of Friday
This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i outlines the comprehensive excellence of Friday prayer. The Prophet (ﷺ) specified seven distinct virtues: performing the Friday ghusl, thorough washing, early arrival at the mosque, walking rather than riding, sitting near the imam, attentive listening to the khutbah, and abstaining from idle speech.
The command for ghusl indicates the importance of physical and spiritual purification for this sacred gathering. The early arrival demonstrates eagerness for worship and maximizes reward. Walking to the mosque reflects humility and additional physical effort in Allah's path.
Scholarly Explanation of Rewards
The immense reward of "a year's worth of good deeds for every step" demonstrates Allah's boundless mercy. Scholars explain this refers to the reward equivalent to voluntary good deeds performed consistently for a year, not obligatory acts. This magnification of reward reflects the special status of Friday in Islam.
Sitting close to the imam facilitates better hearing of the khutbah and prevents distractions. Attentive listening and avoiding idle speech during the khutbah are essential conditions for the prayer's validity according to many scholars, as the khutbah is an integral part of the Jumu'ah worship.
Practical Implementation
The phrase "washes (Ghassala)" indicates thorough cleaning beyond mere ghusl, possibly referring to washing the head and body completely. The prohibition of riding when walking is feasible encourages physical exertion in worship and community interaction.
This hadith collectively teaches that the perfection of Jumu'ah prayer involves preparation, punctuality, physical effort, proper conduct during the khutbah, and complete focus on the religious discourse - all of which lead to extraordinary spiritual rewards from the Most Generous Lord.