Rakats in Friday Prayer (Jumu’ah)

The Jumu’ah (Friday prayer) holds a special place in the heart of Islamic worship. It is a congregational prayer that is not only a weekly spiritual gathering but also a significant part of Islamic tradition and law. One of the aspects that often leads to discussions is the number of Rakats (units of prayer) in the Jumu’ah prayer. Understanding the significance and the reasons behind the prescribed number of Rakats is essential for comprehending the deeper meanings of this vital practice.

The Prescribed Number of Rakats in Jumu’ah

The Jumu’ah prayer was prescribed as two Rakats. Unlike the Dhuhr prayer, which it replaces on Fridays, the Jumu’ah prayer is not simply a shortened form of Dhuhr. This distinction is important because, in other instances, prayers that involve traveling, for example, are shortened as a concession. However, Jumu’ah is distinct in that it stands on its own with a specific structure.

According to the correct opinion of the scholars, this two-Rakat structure is established by authentic traditions from the Prophet Muhammad SAW. One such narration from Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) states: “The Friday prayer is two Rakats, it is complete without being shortened, as stated by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)” [An-Nasaa’i, Ibn Maajah, and authenticated by Al-Albaani].

The Nature of Acts of Worship in Islam

To understand the number of Rakats in Jumu’ah prayer, it’s essential to appreciate the nature of acts of worship in Islam. Islamic acts of worship are Tawqeefiyyah, meaning they are determined strictly by divine revelation, either from the Qur’an or the Sunnah of the Prophet SAW. This means that acts of worship are not subject to personal opinion or reasoning. The Shariah, which encompasses all Islamic law and practices, is what Allah SWT and His Messenger have legislated.

In the Qur’an, Allah SWT ordains prayer, but the specifics, such as the timing, the pillars, and the number of Rakats, are detailed through the Sunnah. For instance, the Prophet SAW said, “Pray as you have seen me praying” [Al-Bukhari]. This hadith underscores the importance of adhering strictly to the prophetic tradition when it comes to performing prayers.

Wisdom Behind the Two Rakats in Jumu’ah

The scholars have discussed the wisdom behind legislating the Jumu’ah prayer as two Rakats instead of the usual four Rakats of the Dhuhr prayer. One of the main reasons posited is the presence of the two Khutbahs (sermons) in the Jumu’ah prayer, which are considered an integral part of the worship on this day. 

Some scholars suggest that the two Khutbahs serve a similar function to the two Rakats that are omitted from the usual Dhuhr prayer. The Khutbahs are not merely sermons but are an essential part of the Friday worship, involving the recitation of the Qur’an, remembrance of Allah SWT, and imparting religious guidance. 

Al-Mardaawi, from the Hanbali School of jurisprudence, mentions that it is a condition for the validity of the Khutbahs to recite at least one verse of the Qur’an in each Khutbah. This is because, according to most scholars, the two Khutbahs are considered to take the place of the two Rakats that would have been part of the prayer if it were performed as the regular Dhuhr prayer.

Submission to Divine Wisdom

An important aspect of understanding the number of Rakats in Jumu’ah prayer is recognizing that acts of worship in Islam are designed to test and build a Muslim’s submission and servitude to Allah SWT. The wisdom behind certain practices, such as the number of Rakats, may not always be apparent to us. However, this does not diminish their importance or our obligation to perform them as prescribed.

Asking why Jumu’ah consists of only two Rakats instead of four, especially if it leads to questioning the divine legislation, is considered a form of impoliteness towards the Law Maker, Allah SWT. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to submit fully to the will of Allah SWT, carrying out His commands and refraining from what He prohibits, regardless of whether the wisdom behind these rulings is apparent to them.

The essence of worship in Islam lies in submission and devotion to Allah SWT, and this includes accepting the divine decrees regarding the structure of prayers. The legislations around the number of Rakats, whether in Jumu’ah or any other prayer, serve as a means to nurture the believer’s humility and obedience to the Creator.

The Jumu’ah Prayer as a Community Bonding Ritual

Beyond the specifics of the number of Rakats, the Jumu’ah prayer serves a larger purpose in the life of a Muslim community. It is a time for Muslims to gather together, listen to the Khutbah, which addresses both spiritual and practical matters, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood. The communal aspect of Jumu’ah is crucial, as it reinforces the unity and solidarity of the Muslim Ummah.

The two Rakats performed after the Khutbah serve as a collective act of worship, bringing the community together in a shared experience of devotion. This weekly gathering also provides an opportunity for Muslims to engage with one another, support each other, and address any communal issues that may have arisen during the week.

Conclusion

The Jumu’ah prayer, with its unique structure of two Rakats, holds profound significance in the Islamic tradition. The prescribed number of Rakats is rooted in the divine wisdom of Allah SWT and His Messenger, emphasizing the importance of following the prophetic example in all acts of worship. While the wisdom behind the number of Rakats may not always be fully apparent, the essence of worship lies in submission to Allah’s will.

Through the Jumu’ah prayer, Muslims not only fulfill a significant religious obligation but also strengthen their bonds with the broader community. The two Rakats of Jumu’ah, preceded by the two Khutbahs, are a powerful reminder of the importance of communal worship and the need to maintain unity within the Ummah. Ultimately, the Jumu’ah prayer is a time for spiritual renewal, reflection, and reaffirmation of one’s commitment to the path of Islam.