Is the requirement of righteousness (Adalah) and maturity necessary for the Adhan to be considered valid?
Chapter on Adhan
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
There are two narrations (Riwayatayn) regarding the validity of a boy's Adhan and two opinions (Wajhan) regarding an openly wicked person (Fasiq). The first opinion holds that righteousness and maturity are required, and the Adhan of a boy or a Fasiq is not recognized because the purpose is public notification, which is not achieved by their declaration since their testimony and reports are not accepted. This is supported by the narration: 'Let the best among you call the Adhan.'
Supporting text
The second opinion accepts the Adhan of a boy or a Fasiq. This is the view of 'Ata, Al-Sha'bi, Ibn Abi Layla, and Al-Shafi'i. Ibn Al-Mundhir narrated, with his chain of transmission, that 'Abdullah bin Abi Bakr bin Anas reported that his uncles used to command him to call the Adhan while he was a young boy who had not reached puberty, and Anas bin Malik was present and did not object. This apparent consensus, which was not denied, is considered Ijma' (consensus). Furthermore, since the prayer of such a person is valid, his Adhan should be accepted, similar to a mature, righteous person. There is no dispute regarding accepting the Adhan of someone whose state is concealed (Mastur al-Hal); the dispute is only concerning one whose wickedness is apparent.