What is the established practice regarding prayer performed before the Friday congregational prayer (Jumu'ah)?

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The practice narrated is that the Prophet, peace be upon him, used to perform four rak'ahs (units of prayer) before Jumu'ah. This is related by Ibn Majah. Furthermore, the Companions, upon the sun passing its zenith (zawal al-shams), would stand and pray four rak'ahs. Scholars such as Habib ibn Abi Thabit followed this practice, performing four rak'ahs once the sun had passed its zenith before Jumu'ah. Abdullah ibn Mas'ud also used to pray four rak'ahs before Jumu'ah and four after it, as narrated by Sa'id.