Islamic Perspective Friday, known as Jumu’ah in Arabic, is considered the most blessed day of the week in Islam. It is marked out from the rest of the days of the week by extra reverence and adherence to practices that the believer seeks spiritual benefit from on that day. Below are the five most important things to do on a Friday from an Islamic perspective:
1. Jumu’ah Prayer:
Jumu’ah is a congregational prayer, which is compulsory for men but highly respected for women ; takes place on Friday and replaces the Dhuhr (midday) prayer. It is two Rak’ahs long and performed in congregation. Before it, there is a sermon by the Imam known as the Khutbah. Jumu’ah is considered a special prayer, as one can see from this verse:
“O you who have believed, when the call is made for prayer on the day of Jumu’ah, then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you if you only knew.” (Quran 62:9)
In this verse, participating in Jumu’ah is stressed; it is preferable to all other worldly affairs.
2. Read Surah Al-Kahf:
There are several spiritual advantages associated with reciting Surah Al-Kahf every Friday. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever reads Surah Al-Kahf on the day of Jumu’ah will have a light that will shine from him from one Friday to the next.” Sahih al-Jami
Surah Al-Kahf has many lessons and stories that strengthen faith and perseverance. It is said that the recitation of this surah protects one from the tests of the Dajjal (Antichrist), particularly if recited on Fridays.
3. Make Dua and Supplications:
Friday is when dua is most effective and most likely to be granted. The Prophet Muhammad said:
“There is a time on Friday when a Muslim, while he or she is performing prayer and is asking for something, will be granted what he or she wishes.” (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
It is that time of the week when Muslims are called upon to repent sincerely and seek forgiveness. One can also make dua for oneself, family, community, and Ummah —the global Muslim community.
4. Sending Salutations on the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
Sending Salawat upon the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, is a highly great reward, especially on Fridays. The Messenger of Allah said:
“Increase your sending of salutations upon me on the day of Jumu’ah, for your salutations are presented to me.” Sunan Abi Dawood
Added to its blessings is the strengthening of the bond and ennobling relationship between the believer and the blessed Prophet, who is an exemplary role model for Muslims.
5. Acts of Worship and Reflection:
Friday is a good day for additional prayer and reflection. Extra prayers are recommended, as is reading the Quran and making Dhikr, ‘Remembrance of Allah.’ Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, stressed the spiritual advantages by saying:
“The five daily prayers, and from one Jumu’ah to the next, are an expiation for whatever (sins) come in between, so long as one does not commit any major sins.” (Sahih Muslim)
Contained within this is part of spiritual growth and being a good Muslim:
- A reflection of the soul’s actions
- Looking for repentance
- Paving the way to improvement
Conclusion:
Fridays are regarded as the special day of the week in Islam, accompanied by various ways and means of enhancing one’s spirituality. These include the Jumu’ah prayer, recitation of Surah Al-Kahf, heartfelt duas, sending salutations upon the Prophet Muhammadď·ş, worship, and a little meditation. All these practices build not only one’s faith but also draw one closer to Allah and the Ummah of Muslims.
