a) History shows that the formula Hurry to the best deed (...

a) History shows that the formula Hurry to the best deed ( hayya `ala khayr al-`amal ) was part of the Adhan in the time of the second caliph.[1] But he omitted it on the assumption that upon hearing it, people might take prayer as the best deed and not take part in the holy war (the Jihad). This has continued in the same manner.[2] [1] Kanz al-`Ummal, the book of al-Salat, vol. 4, p. 266.

Al-Tabarani said, "Bilal used to call to prayers in the morning, saying 'Hurry to the best deed (hayya `ala khayr al-`amal).' Sunan al-Bayhaqi, vol. 1, p. 424-5; Malik's al-Muwatta' vol. 1, p. 93. [2] Kanz al-Irfan, vol. 2, p. 158. Also, al-Sirat al-Mustaqim wa Jawahir al-Akhbar wa'l-athar, vol. 2, p.

192; Al-Kushchi's Sharh al-Tajrid, on b) The formula Prayer is better than sleep (al-salatu khayrun min al-nawmi) was not part of the Adhan during the time of the Holy Prophet; it was added later on.[1] Accordingly, Shafi`i in his book al-Umm says It does not please me to say, in the Adhan, prayer is better than sleep, because Abu-Mahdhurah (one of the traditionists) has not mentioned it in his narrations.[2] Imamate, p.

484: "He went up the pulpit and said, "O People, three things were practiced during the Prophet's time but I forbid them and administer punishment if they are done. These are temporary marriage (mut`ah), mut`at al-Hajj and saying 'Hurry up to the best deed." [1] Kanz al-`Ummal, the book of al-Salat, vol. 4, p. 270. [2] Quoted from Dala'il al-Sidq, vol. 3, part 2, p. 97. Back Index Next Previous…