Guide
Jumu'ah: The Friday Congregational Prayer
Jumu'ah is the Friday congregational prayer that takes the place of the Dhuhr prayer once a week. It is one of the most emphasised gatherings in Islam — the Qur'an instructs believers to "hasten to the remembrance of God" when the call for it is made. It consists of a sermon (khutbah) followed by a short two-unit prayer led in congregation.
When it is held
Jumu'ah is prayed in the Dhuhr time slot on Fridays — its window opens with Dhuhr and it replaces the individual Dhuhr prayer for those who attend. Because it is tied to the Dhuhr window, its clock time shifts through the year exactly as Dhuhr does on your timetable.
Who it is due upon
Attending Jumu'ah is obligatory upon adult, resident male Muslims who are able to attend. Women, travellers, children, the sick and those caring for them are excused, though they may attend; those excused pray Dhuhr as normal. Details of who is exempt vary between the schools.
How it is performed
The imam delivers a khutbah in two parts, sitting briefly between them, and the congregation listens quietly. He then leads two units of prayer aloud. The sermon is an integral part — arriving in time to hear it is part of the observance. It is recommended to come early, to bathe, wear clean clothes and use fragrance.
If you miss it
Someone who misses the congregation — for instance by arriving after the imam has finished — prays Dhuhr instead. A traveller who is not obliged to attend also prays Dhuhr; see prayer times when traveling.