Special Day Al Juma’a

Back in the history of all nations, there was always a day or two when people would rest. All the monotheistic religions teach that the last day of the week should be dedicated to worship God. In Judaism it is Saturday, in Christianity it is Sunday, while in Islam it is Friday. All Muslims around the world consider Friday the Holy day of the week, and in addition to its religious important, Friday also has social and economical significance.

In most Muslim and Arab countries, the week starts on Saturday and ends on Friday. A normal Friday, called Juma’a in Arabic, starts with a weekly ceremony and special prayers. Muslims gather in the largest mosques in town to attend religious ceremonies that have different themes every week. The significance of this weekly gathering is to show solidarity and unity among Muslims, and also to educate people more about their religion and give them a chance to learn from one another about topics related to Islam. Historically, people would travel across towns to attend this ceremony, especially those who lived in very small community. It is said that those who would attend Juma’a prayers shall be rewarded, and their sins shall be forgiven.

Socially, Friday is the day where families and relatives get together. Arabs, in general, have very strong social ties and they are so attached to their communities. But, Friday is a special holiday in which people visit their relatives and neighbors. Special meals are prepared and usually lunch is prepared to celebrate such social gatherings. Children love this day when they wake up in the morning and rush to their grandparents, or any other elderly in the house, and expect to get some coins or a small change of money. It is their fun day and they would buy small toys or ice-cream and candy with the coins they collect.

Economically, the opening hours of shops and market places change on Fridays. Farmers markets usually open in the mornings, so people would come to buy fresh products for their big lunch after Juma’a prayers. However, big malls usually start working after Juma’a and they tend to open a couple of hours later than the normal operating hours during the week days. Thus, it is their chance to attract more buyers who go out to shop and have a fun day out. Many shops have special prices and sales on Fridays, as they know more people come to shop on this day.

Friday is an important day for all people in the Muslim world. They practice conduct worships on this day, socialize and meet family and friends, and it is also a day out for fun and shopping. It does not matter if one is a child, a parent or a grandparent; we all love Fridays.
Juma is our weekly festival which end with acceptable do3a’.