The Athan

The Athan

The athan is the Muslim call to prayer and it is performed daily at the start of the 5 daily prayers.  The muathan (the person who calls for prayer) in times past called from an elevated platform, such as from the minaret, or the roof of a mosque.

The Meaning of the Athan

The athan summarises the message of Islam.  It contains the two testimonies of faith upon which Islam is based.  To testify that “There is no deity except God”, meaning that God Alone is worthy of worship, and to testify that “Muhammad is the Messenger of God” meaning that God should be worshipped in the manner taught by Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him.

The athan serves as a call to perform the prayers.  It is one of the most liked acts in the sight of God, and a reminder that God’s reward is greater than everything in the life of this world.

The Noblest of Professions

Performing the athan is considered a noble profession and therefore the muathan receives a bountiful reward from God Almighty.  Furthermore, the Prophet’s sunnah has mentioned the great virtues of the muathans, including that on the Day of Judgment people will recognize them by their long necks.

The Athan for Fasting People

If any Muslim, male or female, intends to fast, when they hear the athan of the morning prayer, they abstain from whatever God ordered until hearing the athan of the sunset prayer. This marks the end of the fast.

15 The number of sentences in the athan

4 million The approximate number of Muathans worldwide

24 The number of muathans at the Al Haram Mosque of Mecca

8 The number of styles of the athan, which can be read in multiple different ways; more than can be noted… Click here to listen to the athan.

A0 size paper plate printed on glossy paper.