Ghusl Before Friday Prayer – Mandatory or Sunnah?

One of the most asked questions about attending the Friday congregation is if it is Fard to take a ghusl before observing Jumu’ah in the mosque.

The short answer to this question is “No, it is not Fard to take a bath before the Jumu’ah prayer.”

However, it should be acknowledged that having a ghusl and purifying ourselves before heading to the mosque is still emphasized in Islam, considering that it is a stressed and preferred Sunnah. 

In other words, while it is not a condition (Fard or Wajib) in the validity of one's prayer, taking a bath on Friday is still virtuous, as is always the case when following Sunnah – the path of our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAW.

Verily, our Holy Prophet (PBUH) said: 

“Anyone of you going out for the Friday (prayer) should take a bath.” – [Sahih Bukhari: 882]

Not to mention, there is an undeniable reward for performing ghusl before the Jumu’ah prayer.

Reward For Performing Ghusl Before Jumu’ah

Hazrat Abu Hurairah narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: 

“Whoever performs ghusl, then comes to Jumu’ah, and prays what is decreed for him, then listens attentively until the Khutbah is over, then prays with him (the Imam), will be forgiven (his sins) between that and the next Jumu’ah, and three days more.” – [Sahih Muslim: 857(a)]

Is There a Preferred Time for Ghusl on Jumu’ah?

It is sufficient if someone takes a ghusl at the beginning of the day intending to pray in congregation. 

However, if one is staying home, it may be preferable to take a bath before heading out to the mosque while ensuring to arrive there early. This way, we feel fresh in the mosque and also put a stop to any offensive odors in the heat of the sun.

Bonus: A Complete To-Do List for Jumu’ah

Here’s a checklist you can follow every Jumu’ah for the most rewards:

1- Take a ghusl

2- Wear clean clothes

3- Brush our teeth with Miswak

4- Apply perfume (preferably non-alcoholic)

5- Cut our nails

6- Recite Surah Al-Kahf

7- Send Durood and blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad SAW

May Allah SWT accept all our prayers, fulfill our heartfelt duas, and grant us countless blessings while leading us to the path of Jannah. Ameen.