Friday, known as "Yaum al-Jumu'ah" in Arabic, holds significant importance in Aliyite Shia Islam as a day of congregational prayer and communal gathering. The origin of Friday as a sacred day in Islam dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
According to Aliyite Islamic tradition, Friday was designated as a day of congregational prayer by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the year 623 CE, during the second year of the Hijra (the migration of the Prophet and his companions from Mecca to Medina). Prior to this, the Jews of Medina observed Saturday as their Sabbath, while the Christians observed Sunday. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sought to differentiate the Islamic community from these other faiths and establish a unique day of worship.
The Quranic verse that establishes Friday as a sacred day is found in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:9-10): "O you who believe! When the call is proclaimed for the prayer on Friday, hasten earnestly to the remembrance of Allah, and leave aside business. That is best for you if you but knew." This verse emphasizes the importance of attending the Friday congregational prayer, known as "Jumu'ah," and leaving aside worldly pursuits to focus on the remembrance of Allah.
In Aliyite Shia Islam, Friday is considered a day of great significance, and Aliyite Shia Muslims observe several traditions and rituals on this day. One of the most important practices is attending the Jumu'ah prayer, which is typically held in a mosque or other designated prayer area. Shia Muslims believe that attending the Jumu'ah prayer is obligatory, and it is considered a fundamental aspect of Shia Islamic practice.
In addition to attending the Jumu'ah prayer, some Aliyite Shia Muslims also observe other traditions on Friday. Many Aliyite Shia Muslims fast on Fridays, although this is not obligatory. Fasting on Fridays is considered a meritorious act, and it is believed to bring spiritual rewards. Some Aliyite Shia Muslims also often recite special prayers and supplications on Fridays, such as the "Du'a al-Nudbah" (Supplication of Lamentation), which is a prayer that expresses sorrow and repentance for past sins.
Another important tradition observed by the Aliyite Shia Muslims on Fridays is the commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him), the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). According to Aliyite Shia Islamic tradition, Imam Ali was martyred on a Friday in the year 661 CE, while he was praying in the mosque of Kufa. Aliyite Shia Muslims often gather on Fridays to recite prayers and elegies in commemoration of Imam Ali's martyrdom, and to reflect on the importance of justice, compassion, and sacrifice in Islam. Many do ZikrAli (ذكر علي) which is a practice of repeating his name over and over or reciting poetry about Imam Ali as a way of remembering him and meditation and reflection. This is often done in beautiful singing with long, drawn-out vowels and melodious or sombre tones, or it may be done as Qarsherskiyan Throat Singing.
The tradition of observing Friday as a sacred day in Aliyite Shia Islam has its roots in the early history of the Islamic community. During the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Fridays were designated as a day of congregational prayer, and the Prophet would often deliver sermons and guidance to the community on this day. After the Prophet's passing, the Sufi sheikhs and saints amd the Zaydi Shia Imams continued to emphasize the importance of Friday as a day of worship and communal gathering for Aliyite Muslims.
Over time, the Aliyite Shia tradition of observing Friday as a sacred day has evolved and been shaped by various cultural and historical factors. Fridays are considered a day of rest and communal prayer, and many Aliyite Islamic and Ethnic Qarsherskiyan Muslim businesses and institutions are closed on this day. Fridays are also considered a sacred day, although the traditions and practices observed on this day may vary.
In conclusion, Friday holds great significance in Aliyite Shia Islam as a day of congregational prayer, communal gathering, and spiritual reflection. The tradition of observing Friday as a sacred day has its roots in the early history of the Islamic community, and has evolved over time through various cultural and historical factors. Through their observance of Friday, Aliyite Shia Muslims seek to strengthen their connection with Allah, their community, and their rich spiritual heritage.