Leaving Friday Prayer (Jumu’ah) due to community conflict or personal upset regarding mosque politics is a serious matter in Islamic jurisprudence. While the division within a community is disheartening—especially during Ramadan—it does not absolve an individual of their religious obligations. This article clarifies the ruling on attending Jumu’ah amidst community disputes and the specific considerations for a blind worshiper.
The Obligation of Friday Prayer
Friday Prayer is mandatory (Fard) upon every adult, healthy, free Muslim male. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) issued stern warnings against neglecting this duty without a valid Shar’i excuse.
“If people don’t stop abandoning the Friday Prayers Allah may seal their hearts and they will become heedless.” (Sahih Muslim)
Scholars emphasize that the personal failings, arguments, or worldly disputes of a community or an Imam do not invalidate the prayer of the congregation. A Muslim is responsible for their own worship. The Imam will be questioned by Allah regarding their behavior and leadership, but the follower is simply ordered to establish the prayer.
The companion `Abdullah Ibn Umm Maktum, who was blind, once asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) for permission to pray at home. The Prophet asked if he could hear the Adhan (call to prayer). When he replied yes, the Prophet told him there was no excuse for him to miss the congregation.
Based on this, scholars rule that as long as a blind person is capable of reaching the mosque (even with assistance or navigation) and hears the call, they are obliged to attend. The dispute between the two groups is not considered a valid excuse to abandon the obligation.
Navigating the Split Community
It is distressing to see a community divided over money and personalities. However, your withdrawal from Jumu’ah harms your own spiritual standing more than it affects the disputing parties.
Recommended Actions:
- Attend One Group: Select one of the musallahs—perhaps the one that is closer to your home or the one you feel adheres closer to the Sunnah—and perform your Friday prayer there. Your prayer is valid regardless of their administrative disputes.
- Remain Neutral: You can attend the prayer without engaging in the politics or taking sides. Your presence acts as a statement that worship is greater than worldly arguments.
- Continue Reconciliation: Do not lose hope. Continue to advise both sides to fear Allah and unite, especially utilizing the blessings of Ramadan. If they refuse, you have done your part (“enjoining good and forbidding evil”), but you must not let their stubbornness stop your worship.
