Is recitation of the Quran required in the Jumu'ah sermons, and in one or both sermons?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Friday Prayer
Primary text
There is a scholarly possibility that recitation from the Quran is stipulated for each of the two sermons, which is the apparent position of Al-Kharqi, as the two sermons replace two Rak'ahs, meaning recitation is a condition in both, just as in the Rak'ahs. The basis for this position is that recitation is the explanation of the purpose of the sermon, making its omission impermissible.
Supporting text
Another possibility is that recitation is only stipulated in one of the sermons. This is based on the narration from Al-Sha'bi, describing the Prophet's practice: He would praise Allah, glorify Him, and recite one Surah, then sit, then stand to deliver the second sermon and descend. This implies recitation occurred only in the first sermon. A view held by the Qadi is that recitation must occur in both sermons because it clarifies the intent. Abu Hanifa stated that a single Tasbeeh (glorification) suffices because Allah commanded hastening to the remembrance of Allah (Quran 62:9) without specifying the remembrance, so whatever is termed remembrance suffices. The position of our companions is that less than one verse is insufficient for recitation, following the Prophet's practice, and because religious rulings are not attached to less than a verse, as evidenced by prohibiting the impure person from reciting a verse but not less.