Understanding the Muslim Call to Prayer "Adhan"

If you are moving or visiting a Muslim country, you will need to know this

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The Adhan, or Islamic call to prayer, is a deeply significant and spiritual ritual in Islam that resonates through mosques worldwide five times a day. More than just a call to worship, the Adhan serves as a reminder of the central tenets of the Islamic faith. Each phrase of the Adhan carries profound meaning, inviting the faithful to pause, reflect, and turn towards God. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind the words of the Adhan, their significance, and their role in the daily lives of Muslims.

The Muslim call to prayer, known as the "Adhan" or "Azan," consists of specific phrases recited in Arabic. Here are the words:

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar
(الله أكبر، الله أكبر)
"God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest"
Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah
(أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله)
"I bear witness that there is no god but Allah"
Ashhadu anna Muhammadur Rasul Allah
(أشهد أن محمدًا رسول الله)
"I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah"
Hayya 'ala-s-Salah
(حي على الصلاة)
"Hasten to the prayer"
Hayya 'ala-l-Falah
(حي على الفلاح)
"Hasten to success"
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar
(الله أكبر، الله أكبر)
"God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest"
La ilaha illa Allah
(لا إله إلا الله)
"There is no god but Allah"

During the early morning prayer (Fajr), an additional line is added:

As-salatu khayrun min an-naum
(الصلاة خير من النوم)
"Prayer is better than sleep"

This is repeated twice.

Understanding the Muslim Call to Prayer "Adhan"

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