The call to prayer in Islam is known as the Adhan. It is the first call summoning Muslims to enter the mosque for obligatory (fard) prayer (salah) . The Adhan is uttered in a loud, sweet melodious voice to announce to the faithful that it is time for the Obligatory Prayer and to invite them to offer the prayers. The Adhan is traditionally recited by a muezzin, who stands in a prominent position with his face turned towards the Qiblah. The Adhan consists of the following phrases, which are recited in Arabic:
- "Allahu Akbar" - recited four times. Meaning, "God is the greatest."
- "Ash-hadu anna la ilaha illa Allah" - recited two times. Meaning, "I bear witness that there is none worthy of being worshipped except Allah."
- "Ash-hadu anna Muhammad-ar-Rasoolullah" - recited two times. Meaning, "I bear witness that Muhammad is the Apostle of Allah."
- "Hayya alas-Salah" - recited two times. Meaning, "Come to prayer."
- "Hayya alal-falah" - recited two times. Meaning, "Come to Success."
- "Allahu Akbar" - recited two times. Meaning, "God is Most Great."
During the Friday prayer (Salat al-Jumuah), there is one Adhan but some Sunni Muslims increase it to two Adhans; the first is to call the people to the mosque, the second is said before the Imam begins the khutbah (sermon) . Just before the prayers start, someone amongst the praying people recites the iqama as in all prayers. The call to prayer is said after entering the time of prayer, and it is common for the muezzin to put his hands to his ears when reciting the Adhan. The Adhan can be broadcast around the neighborhood, recited from within the mosque building, or sounded from a sidewalk.
