The Sunnahs of Friday for Women: A Comprehensive Guide
The day of Friday, known as Jumu’ah, holds a significant place in the lives of Muslims. It is not only a day for communal prayers but also a day rich in spiritual acts and blessings. For women, like men, Friday offers an opportunity for increased devotion, as the day is filled with recommended Sunnah practices that bring spiritual rewards and bring one closer to Allah.
The importance of Friday in Islam is underlined by the hadiths that emphasize its virtues. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The best day on which the sun has risen is Friday. On it, Adam was created, and on it, he was admitted into Paradise, and on it, he was expelled from it” (Sahih Muslim). For Muslims, observing the Sunnah practices of this day can help strengthen their faith, bring them closer to the community, and enhance their spiritual well-being.
While the Sunnahs of Friday for men are often widely discussed, the practices for women are equally important and can be adapted to their individual circumstances. In this article, we will explore the Sunnah actions for women on Friday, focusing on the recommended activities, prayers, and etiquettes that can help maximize the blessings of Jumu’ah.
1. Preparation for Jumu’ah Prayer
One of the first Sunnahs for women (as well as men) on Friday is the preparation for Jumu’ah prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended taking a ritual bath, also known as ghusl. This is not obligatory but highly recommended to ensure cleanliness and to prepare spiritually for the day.
The Prophet said: “Ghusl on Friday is an obligation for every Muslim who has reached puberty” (Sahih al-Bukhari). While this is generally understood to refer to men, many scholars agree that women should also observe the ghusl for the sake of cleanliness and spiritual renewal.
In addition to the ghusl, women should wear clean and good clothes, as the Prophet emphasized the importance of looking presentable on Friday. It is a sign of respect for the day, just as men are encouraged to wear their finest clothes for the occasion.
2. Reading Surah Al-Kahf
Another Sunnah for women on Friday is the recitation of Surah Al-Kahf. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever recites Surah Al-Kahf on Friday, it will provide him with light for the entire week until the next Friday” (Sahih al-Jami). While it is preferable for Muslims to recite the full Surah, women who may not have the time or circumstances to do so can recite part of it or even listen to its recitation, as this too brings spiritual benefit.
Surah Al-Kahf is not just a chapter from the Quran but a source of guidance and reflection. It speaks about the trials of faith, the importance of trust in Allah, and the story of the companions of the cave, among other themes. It serves as a reminder to all Muslims, including women, to seek Allah’s guidance and remain steadfast in their faith.
3. Sending Salat upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Another highly recommended act for women on Friday is sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), known as Salat al-Nabi. This practice is beneficial for both men and women and carries immense reward. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Increase your supplications for me on the day of Friday, for whoever sends blessings upon me once, Allah will send blessings upon him ten times” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi).
For women, this is an easy yet powerful way to gain rewards, strengthen their connection to the Prophet, and seek Allah’s mercy. Sending Salat upon the Prophet also has a calming effect on the heart and mind, offering peace and tranquility.
4. Offering Additional Prayers
The Sunnah prayers for women on Friday are similar to those for men. The day of Friday is marked by a special congregational prayer known as the Jumu’ah prayer, which is performed at the mosque. While the Friday congregational prayer is obligatory for men, women are not required to attend the mosque for this prayer. Women can pray at home and still receive the full rewards, as long as they observe the time of the prayer.
In addition to the Jumu’ah prayer, women can also engage in extra voluntary prayers, such as the Dhuha prayer (the forenoon prayer) and the Tahajjud prayer (the night prayer). These acts of worship further enhance the spiritual significance of the day and provide additional rewards.
5. Making Du’a (Supplication)
Friday is considered one of the best days to make du’a or supplication. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “On Friday there is a moment when if a Muslim asks Allah for something good, He will give it to him” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Women should take advantage of this blessed day to make supplications for themselves, their families, and the wider Muslim community.
Whether it is a moment of gratitude, a request for forgiveness, or a prayer for personal goals and aspirations, the du’a made on Friday is considered more likely to be accepted by Allah. Women can pray for their health, their children’s well-being, their spouses, or any other need that is close to their hearts.
6. Visiting the Mosque (if possible)
While women are not obligated to attend the mosque for Jumu’ah prayer, if it is possible and safe, they can choose to attend the Friday prayer. Many scholars agree that women should be encouraged to visit the mosque when they can do so in accordance with the Islamic guidelines of modesty and appropriate behavior.
In addition to attending Jumu’ah prayer, visiting the mosque provides women with an opportunity to be part of the communal worship, listen to the Friday sermon, and participate in the social and spiritual activities that are unique to the mosque on this blessed day. However, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also acknowledged that women’s primary responsibility is in the home, so attending the mosque is not obligatory for them, and their worship at home is equally valid.
7. Fasting on Friday
While fasting on Fridays is not a requirement, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended fasting on the day of Arafah and the day of Ashura, both of which often fall on Fridays. Women who are able to fast should consider fasting on Fridays as an extra means of gaining rewards.
If fasting on Friday is not possible, it is recommended to fast on Thursdays or Saturdays along with Friday, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised not to single out Friday alone for fasting. The act of fasting brings about purification, repentance, and closeness to Allah, which can be especially beneficial when done on the blessed day of Friday.
8. Maintaining Good Character and Acts of Kindness
One of the Sunnahs that is often overlooked is the emphasis on maintaining good character and performing acts of kindness. On Fridays, Muslims are encouraged to engage in good deeds and be generous in their interactions with others. Women should take the opportunity to be especially kind to their families, neighbors, and others in their community.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever has three daughters, and he treats them well, will be with me in Paradise” (Sunan Ibn Majah). This hadith serves as a reminder that the small, everyday actions women do in the home and in their interactions with others have great significance, especially on Fridays.
Conclusion
The Sunnahs of Friday for women are not limited to specific actions or rituals but are part of a broader approach to worship and spirituality. By observing the recommended acts of worship, such as taking ghusl, reading Surah Al-Kahf, sending Salat upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), making du’a, and engaging in acts of kindness, women can make the most of the blessings of Friday.
Friday is a day that provides Muslims with a unique opportunity to increase their acts of worship, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to Allah. Women, just like men, should take advantage of this day to seek the many blessings it offers, both in this world and the Hereafter. Through consistent effort and devotion, women can find spiritual fulfillment and peace, making every Friday a source of joy and reward in their lives.