The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Whoever performs Ghusl as from Janabah on Friday, then comes (to the Masjid), it is as if he sacrificed a camel. Then the one who comes in the second hour, it is as if he sacrificed a cow. Then the one who comes in the third hour, it is as if he sacrificed a ram. Then the one who comes in the fourth hour, it is as if he sacrificed a chicken. Then the one who comes in the fifth hour, it is as if he sacrificed an egg. Then when the Imam comes out, the angels attend to listen to the Khutbah."
The Book of Jumu'ah (Friday Prayer)
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1388
Hadith Text
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Whoever performs Ghusl as from Janabah on Friday, then comes (to the Masjid), it is as if he sacrificed a camel. Then the one who comes in the second hour, it is as if he sacrificed a cow. Then the one who comes in the third hour, it is as if he sacrificed a ram. Then the one who comes in the fourth hour, it is as if he sacrificed a chicken. Then the one who comes in the fifth hour, it is as if he sacrificed an egg. Then when the Imam comes out, the angels attend to listen to the Khutbah."
Commentary on Purification
The Prophet's mention of "Ghusl as from Janabah" indicates the thoroughness and completeness required for Friday's ritual bath. While not requiring one to be in a state of major impurity, this phrasing emphasizes that the Ghusl should be performed with the same meticulousness as the major purification, ensuring physical and spiritual cleanliness before attending the congregational prayer.
Significance of Early Arrival
The graduated rewards - from camel to egg - demonstrate the immense virtue of arriving early for Jumu'ah. The scholars explain these hours refer to divisions of the daytime before noon, with the first hour beginning at dawn. This hierarchy of rewards encourages Muslims to prioritize the Friday prayer and maximize their spiritual benefits through timely attendance.
Angelic Presence
The mention of angels attending when the Imam emerges signifies the sacred nature of the Khutbah. This divine presence underscores the importance of listening attentively and maintaining proper decorum during the sermon. The angels' gathering elevates the spiritual atmosphere and records the congregation's devotion.
Legal Rulings Derived
Scholars derive from this hadith that Friday Ghusl is highly recommended (Sunnah Mu'akkadah), though not obligatory. The timing divisions provide guidance for optimal reward, while the angelic presence during Khutbah establishes the prohibition of speaking during the sermon and the obligation to listen attentively.