The 18 Essential Sunnahs of Jummah That Every Muslim Should Practice

Discover the 18 essential Sunnahs of Jumu'ah that every Muslim should follow for spiritual reward, cleanliness, and connection with Allah. From ghusl to du‘a, embrace the beauty of Friday worship.

Here are all the Sunnahs of Jumu'ah (Friday) — acts recommended by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for this blessed day:

🌙 Before Jumu'ah (Morning or Earlier in the Day):

1. Take a Ghusl (ritual bath):

A strongly emphasized Sunnah.

"Whoever performs Ghusl on Friday, then goes to the masjid..." (Bukhari, Muslim)

2. Use Miswak (tooth-stick) or brush teeth:

Cleanliness and fresh breath are recommended.

(Muslim)

3. Wear clean and best clothes:

Preferably white or the best available.

4. Apply perfume (for men):

To smell pleasant before going to the masjid.

5. Cut nails and remove unwanted hair:

Acts of personal hygiene are recommended on Fridays.

6. Recite Surah Al-Kahf:

Reciting Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18) is highly recommended.

"Whoever recites Surah Al-Kahf on Friday, a light will shine for him until the next Friday." (Al-Hakim)

🕌 Going to the Masjid for Jumu'ah Prayer:

7. Go early to the mosque:

The earlier you go, the greater the reward.

(Bukhari)

8. Walk to the masjid if possible:

Every step earns reward and erases sin.

(Ibn Majah)

9. Do not step over people or push:

Respect others’ space and don't disturb.

10. Sit close to the Imam:

Encouraged if there's space.

(Abu Dawood)

11. Remain silent during the khutbah (sermon):

Even saying “be quiet” to someone is discouraged.

(Bukhari, Muslim)

📿 In the Masjid:

12. Pray voluntary Sunnah prayers before the khutbah:

Two or four rak‘ahs, depending on scholarly opinion.

13. Listen attentively to the khutbah:

This is part of the Jumu'ah prayer obligation.

🕋 After the Jumu'ah Prayer:

14. Pray 2 or 4 rak‘ahs Sunnah after Jumu’ah:

In the masjid: 4 rak‘ahs.

At home: 2 rak‘ahs.

(Muslim, Abu Dawood)

15. Make abundant du‘a and send salawat (blessings) on the Prophet ﷺ:

Friday is a special day for answered prayers.

"There is an hour on Friday during which no Muslim asks Allah for anything but He grants it." (Bukhari, Muslim)

🕰️ Throughout the Day:

16. Make dhikr (remembrance of Allah):

Especially Tasbih, Tahmid, Takbir, and La ilaha illa Allah.

17. Increase salawat (sending blessings) on Prophet ﷺ:

"Increase your salawat for me on the day and night of Jumu’ah." (Ahmad)

18. Seek the last hour before Maghrib for du‘a:

A time of high likelihood for du‘a to be accepted.

Sunnahs of Jumu'ah – FAQs

1. What are the most important Sunnahs of Jumu'ah?

The most important Sunnahs include taking a ghusl (ritual bath), wearing clean clothes, applying perfume (for men), using miswak, going early to the masjid, reciting Surah Al-Kahf, listening silently to the khutbah, and making du‘a.

2. Is ghusl on Jumu'ah obligatory or Sunnah?

It is a strong Sunnah (some scholars consider it wajib for those attending Jumu'ah), highly recommended by the Prophet ﷺ.

“Ghusl on the day of Jumu'ah is necessary for every adult.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

3. Can women follow the Sunnahs of Jumu'ah even if they don’t attend the masjid?

Yes. Women can still perform most Sunnahs like ghusl, reciting Surah Al-Kahf, sending salawat, and making du‘a even at home.

4. What should we do while waiting for the khutbah?

Pray Sunnah prayers, read Qur’an, or make quiet dhikr. Once the khutbah starts, remain silent and listen attentively.

Conclusion:

Jumu'ah is not just a weekly gathering—it's a golden opportunity to renew your faith, earn immense rewards, and strengthen your bond with Allah ﷻ. By following these 18 Sunnahs, you’re not only honoring the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ but also bringing barakah (blessing) into your life. Make every Friday count by preparing early, staying mindful in your worship, and embracing the spiritual atmosphere of this blessed day. May Allah grant us consistency in following the Sunnahs and shower us with His mercy every Jumu'ah. Ameen.