What should be said when the muezzin says Alsalatu khayrun min alnawm (Prayer is better than sleep)?

In a Nutshell: The call to prayer (Adhan) serves as a divine summons for Muslims to perform Salah (prayer). When the muezzin recites Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm (prayer is better than sleep), it serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize prayer over worldly concerns. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Evidences Analysis of Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm Misconceptions FAQs on Responding to the Adhan Conclusion Introduction The Adhan, a rhythmic call to prayer recited by the muezzin, holds immense significance in Islam. It serves not only as a notification of prayer times but also as a powerful reminder for Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations. Within the Adhan, the specific phrase Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm (prayer is better than sleep) carries a profound message, emphasizing the importance of prayer even if it requires sacrificing sleep. Evidences Quranic Verses on the Importance of Prayer Muslims are commanded to establish prayer throughout the day and night (Quran 2:43). Prayer is described as a pillar of Islam (Quran 2:177) and neglecting it is considered a major sin (Quran 26:102-104). Hadiths Emphasizing the Virtue of Prayer over Sleep The Prophet (pbuh) highlighted the importance of prayer over sleep in several hadiths. In Sahih al-Bukhari, he (pbuh) is reported to have said: "Get up for prayer even if you are weaving. This emphasizes the importance of prioritizing prayer even when engaged in permissible activities." (Bukhari) Imam Nawawi (ra) emphasises the importance of responding to the Adhan in his book Al-Adhkar. He recommends repeating the muezzin's call and supplicating to Allah (swt). Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm The phrase Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual significance of prayer. Here's a breakdown of its meaning and scholarly discussions: Meaning and Interpretation:The literal translation is prayer is better than sleep. It signifies that the spiritual reward and blessings attained through prayer outweigh the temporary comfort of sleep. Scholarly Discussions:While some scholars interpret the phrase as a literal command to wake up for Fajr (dawn) prayer, others emphasize the general importance of prioritizing prayer over worldly pursuits whenever the Adhan is called. Balancing Prayer with Physical Needs:Islam emphasizes a balanced approach. While prioritizing prayer, one should also strive to get adequate sleep to maintain good health and fulfill other obligations. Misconceptions Responding to the Adhan is Only Obligatory for Those Near the Mosque Responding to the Adhan is a commendable act for all Muslims who hear it, regardless of their proximity to the mosque. Imam Ibn Qudamah (ra) in his book Al-Mughni states, > It is ????? (mustahab - recommended) for whoever hears the Adhan to repeat it. While attending the mosque for prayer is encouraged, responding to the Adhan itself can be done from wherever one hears it. What if I am Unable to perform Salah Due to a valid Reason (e.g., Illness) While responding to the Adhan is recommended, fulfilling the obligation of prayer itself takes precedence. If a person has a valid excuse that prevents them from performing Salah, such as illness or menstruation, they are not obligated to pray at that time. However, they should still respond to the Adhan if they are able. The Prophet (pbuh) said "The sick person, the traveling person and the one with a physical need are excused from attending the night prayer (Isha)." (Muslim) The Call to Prayer Disrupts Sleep, Especially for Night Workers The Adhan serves as a reminder throughout the day and night, including during sleep. While it may disrupt sleep at times, especially for night workers, Islam emphasizes the importance of prayer even if it requires sacrifice. Imam Al-Ghazali (ra) in his book Ihya Ulum al-Din discusses the importance of striving to wake up for Fajr prayer even if it requires overcoming difficulty. He advises night workers to adjust their sleep schedules to ensure they can perform Fajr on time. However, scholars also acknowledge the need for rest. If a night worker has no choice but to sleep during the Adhan, they are not sinful. They should still strive to respond to the Adhan whenever possible and make up any missed prayers as soon as they are able. FAQs on Responding to the Adhan Are there specific words to say in response to Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm? While there's no single prescribed response, repeating the muezzin's words and adding supplications is encouraged. Here's an example: Muezzin: Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm. Response: Sadaqta wa bararta (You have spoken the truth and you are righteous). This response acknowledges the truth of the statement and reflects the importance of prayer. What if I miss the Adhan entirely? Can I still respond later? While it's ideal to respond to the Adhan as it's called, there's no sin in responding later upon recalling it. Even without explicitly repeating the muezzin's words, one can still acknowledge the importance of prayer. Conclusion The call to prayer is a powerful and beautiful part of Islam, emphasizing prayer's importance in a Muslim's life. The phrase Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm highlights the significance of prioritizing prayer even if it requires sacrificing sleep or worldly comforts. Responding to the Adhan is a commendable act that reinforces one's faith and connection to Allah (swt). While Islam recognizes the need for sleep and rest, it also encourages believers to strive for spiritual fulfillment through prayer. By understanding the significance of the Adhan and the phrase Alsalahu khayrun min alnawm, Muslims can deepen their commitment to Salah and prioritize their spiritual growth. References Al-Ghazali, Ihya Ulum al-Din. Ibn Qudamah, Al-Mughni (Volume 1)