Q: I was late for Jummah today.i.e I reached the masjid after the Imam was on the pulpit. What is the hadith/ruling on a muslim attending Jummah after the Azan & the Imam reaching the pulpit?
I noticed many hundred’s walking in closer to the Jummah Namaz.
Please advise.
A: Respected Brother/Sister in Islam
As Salaamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakaatuh
Haamidaw wa Musalliyaa
Hazrat Abu Hurairah (R.A.) has narrated that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) has mentioned that on the day of Jumuah, the angels stand at the door of the Masjid and record the rewards for those who come to the Masjid early. The parable of the one who comes early is (in reward) like the one who sacrifices a camel. Thereafter the one who comes is like (in reward) the one who sacrifices a cow. Thereafter, a sheep, and then a chicken and then an egg. Once the Imaam emerges (for the khutba), the angels fold away their books and listen to the Khutba. (Mishkaat)
As such, carefully listening to the Khutba is an extrememly important injunction of the Shariah. It is incumbent to arrive at the Masjid before the commencement of the second Athaan. Arriving thereafter, drastically affects the rewards of Jumuah and is sinful. One should make sincere tauba, istighfaar and preferably give some charity and ensure that one is on time in the future.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Was Salaam
Shafiq Jakhura (Mufti)
Fatwa Dept.