Prophet's Grandfather Introduced Friday's Name, Islamic Tradition Says

Friday holds a special status in Islam, earning the title 'sayyidul ayyam' or 'chief of days.' This reverence encourages Muslims to dedicate more time to worship, prayer, and sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad on Thursday nights and throughout Friday.

Interestingly, the name 'Jumu'ah' for Friday was introduced before the Prophet Muhammad's divine mission. It was Ka'ab bin Lu'ay, the Prophet's grandfather, who first proposed this name. Previously, Arab society referred to Friday as 'al-arubah.' Ka'ab bin Lu'ay would gather the Quraysh tribe at his home on this day, reminding them of the impending arrival of the final prophet, Muhammad.

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Indeed, Friday is the master of days and the greatest in the sight of Allah.

The term 'jumu'ah' itself derives from the Arabic word for 'gathering' (ijtima'). This meaning became even more significant with the advent of Islam, as Muslims convene for the Friday congregational prayer, a ritual distinct from the daily five prayers. The Prophet Muhammad himself declared Friday as the noblest day in the sight of Allah, stating, 'Indeed, Friday is the master of days and the greatest in the sight of Allah.'

This esteemed status of Friday is why Muslims are urged to increase their good deeds, including prayers and blessings upon the Prophet. The Prophet Muhammad advised, 'Increase your blessings upon me on the day and night of Friday. Whoever blesses me once, Allah will reward him ten times.'

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Increase your blessings upon me on the day and night of Friday. Whoever blesses me once, Allah will reward him ten times.