What is the ruling on the concept of 'Bakura' and 'Ibtikar' in relation to attending Jumu'ah?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Friday Prayer

Book 4 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The concept of 'Bakura' signifies leaving for the prayer in the first part of the morning, and 'Ibtikar' means striving to arrive at the very beginning of that morning period. The meaning is reinforced by the report that whoever washes, bathes, goes early, and strives to be first (Bakura wa Ibtakara) receives the reward of fasting and performing night vigil (Qiyam) for an entire year for every step taken. This reward is augmented if the person walks, does not ride, goes close to the Imam, listens without distraction, and does not engage in idle talk.

Supporting text

There is an alternative interpretation where 'Ibtikar' is understood as dedicating oneself to worship at the start of the day, or attending the sermon ('Khutbah'). However, the primary interpretation aligns better with the context that whoever comes during the early morning is obliged to attend the start of the sermon.