What is Iqama in Islam?

The Iqama (Arabic: إقامة) is the second call to prayer, signifying that the congregational Salah (prayer) is about to begin. While the Adhan announces the time of prayer, the Iqama serves as a final call and is recited immediately before the commencement of the prayer itself. It has a shorter text than the Adhan and is delivered more quickly, maintaining a rhythm that encourages worshippers to stand in rows and prepare for Salah.

The Meaning and Purpose of Iqama

The term Iqama comes from the Arabic root q-w-m (ق-و-م), meaning “to stand” or “to establish.” The Iqama signifies the establishment of the prayer, urging the congregation to rise and prepare for Salah. It serves as:

1. A reminder for worshippers that the prayer is about to begin.
2. A directive to line up and focus on worship.

The Text of the Iqama

The text of the Iqama is similar to the Adhan but with slight variations. It is recited in a quicker, less melodious tone. The standard form is as follows:

1. Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest) – repeated twice
2. Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah (I bear witness that there is no deity except Allah) – repeated once
3. Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Rasul Allah (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah) – repeated once
4. Hayya ‘ala al-salah (Hasten to the prayer) – repeated once
5. Hayya ‘ala al-falah (Hasten to success) – repeated once
6. Qad qamati al-salah, Qad qamati al-salah (The prayer has been established, the prayer has been established) – repeated twice
7. Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest) – repeated twice
8. La ilaha illa Allah (There is no deity except Allah) – recited once

Differences Between Adhan and Iqama

1. Purpose
   • The Adhan announces the time of prayer and invites people to come to the mosque or prepare for Salah.
   • The Iqama signals that the prayer is about to begin.
2. Timing
   • The Adhan is recited at the beginning of the prayer time, while the Iqama is recited just before the prayer starts.
3. Pace and Tone
   • The Adhan is recited melodiously and slowly.
   • The Iqama is recited quickly and in a more straightforward manner.
4. Additional Phrase
   • The phrase “Qad qamati al-salah” in the Iqama explicitly announces the establishment of the prayer, distinguishing it from the Adhan.

Rules and Practices of the Iqama

1. Who Recites the Iqama?
   • Typically, the Iqama is recited by the muezzin (the person who called the Adhan). In smaller gatherings, anyone leading or participating in the prayer may recite it.
2. Standing for Prayer
   • Worshippers should stand and form rows as soon as the Iqama begins or during its recitation.
3. Individual and Congregational Prayer
   • While the Iqama is primarily recited before congregational prayers, it may also be recited before an individual prayer for added reward, though it is not obligatory.
4. Volume and Clarity
   • The Iqama should be loud enough for the congregation to hear but not as loud or prolonged as the Adhan.
5. Timing Between Adhan and Iqama
   • The time between the Adhan and Iqama varies based on the prayer and local custom. For Fajr, a longer gap is often observed to allow time for Sunnah prayers. For other prayers, the gap may be shorter.

Significance of the Iqama

1. Unity and Order
   • The Iqama brings worshippers together in rows, fostering a sense of unity and discipline.
2. Encouragement of Focus
   • The direct tone of the Iqama encourages worshippers to focus on Salah and prepare their hearts for connection with Allah.
3. Reminder of Prayer’s Importance
   • The repetition of key phrases reinforces the themes of monotheism, devotion, and the greatness of Allah.

Lessons from the Iqama

1. Timeliness in Worship
   • The Iqama emphasizes the importance of punctuality and attentiveness in performing Salah.
2. Establishment of Salah
   • By signaling the start of prayer, the Iqama reminds Muslims of the central role of Salah in their daily lives.
3. Unity in Worship
   • It reflects the collective spirit of the Muslim community, standing together in devotion to Allah.

Conclusion

The Iqama is an integral part of Islamic prayer, marking the transition from preparation to the act of worship. It complements the Adhan by uniting worshippers and signaling the establishment of Salah. Through its simple yet powerful words, the Iqama reinforces key tenets of Islam, encouraging focus, punctuality, and a sense of communal unity in the act of worship.

Written by AI.  A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.