What is the Fajr Adhan?
The Fajr adhan is the call to prayer that announces the beginning of the first prayer time of the day in Islam, recited together with the breaking of dawn known as fajr al-sadiq (true dawn). As the first of the five daily adhans, the Fajr adhan contains a special phrase distinct from the others: "As-salatu khayrun mina an-nawm" meaning "Prayer is better than sleep" — this expression is recited only in the Fajr adhan. This phrase is a special call reminding believers of the great blessing of rising from the darkness of the night and standing in prayer before Allah.
The most distinctive feature of the Fajr adhan compared to the others is its direct connection with the concepts of fajr al-sadiq (true dawn) and fajr al-kadhib (false dawn). Fajr al-kadhib is a deceptive light that appears briefly on the horizon during the darkness of night and disappears soon after, while fajr al-sadiq is the true light that spreads horizontally along the horizon and gradually increases. The Fajr adhan is recited with the appearance of fajr al-sadiq. Knowing this subtle distinction is of great importance especially for those fasting, since imsak (the start of the fast) begins with fajr al-sadiq.
Throughout history the Fajr adhan has held a special place in Muslim societies. During the Ottoman period, muezzins would recite the Fajr adhan with a particularly powerful and moving voice, fulfilling their duty of rousing the neighborhood for prayer with a great sense of responsibility. Today as well, the Fajr adhan recited through mosque loudspeaker systems serves as the first occasion for millions of people across the Islamic world to begin their day. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "When you hear the adhan, repeat what the muezzin says" (Muslim, Salat, 7), thereby guiding his ummah regarding the supplications and remembrances to be made after the adhan.
In Islamic civilization, the Fajr adhan is not merely a call but also a measure of time and an instrument of social order. In Ottoman cities, daily life would begin with the Fajr adhan: shops would open, madrasa students would prepare for their lessons, and the general rhythm of society would take shape with this first call. Today as well — especially during the month of Ramadan — the critical role the Fajr adhan plays in the transition between iftar and suhur clearly demonstrates the social function of this ancient act of worship.
What Time is the Fajr Adhan Recited?
"What time is the Fajr adhan today?" is one of the most searched religious questions in Turkey. The Fajr adhan time varies considerably according to the geographical location (latitude and longitude) of the city you are in and the season of the year. Between a city in the east of Turkey and one in the west, there can be differences of 30–40 minutes for the same day. Likewise, in the same city, the Fajr adhan time can differ by 2–3 hours between summer and winter months.
For example, in Istanbul near the summer solstice, the Fajr adhan is recited between 03:25 and 03:35, while during the winter solstice it is around 06:25–06:35. In Ankara, the time for the same periods is approximately 10–15 minutes earlier, since Ankara lies east of Istanbul. In Hakkari (Turkey's easternmost city) the Fajr adhan is recited about 40 minutes earlier than in Istanbul, while in Edirne (the westernmost) it is approximately 15 minutes later.
Another important factor affecting the Fajr adhan time is latitude. Cities in northern Turkey (such as Sinop, Trabzon, Artvin) have an earlier Fajr adhan in summer than southern cities (such as Hatay, Antalya, Mersin). The reason is that at the summer solstice nights are shorter in the north and dawn begins earlier. In winter, the situation is reversed.
The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) calculates and announces Fajr adhan times for all provinces and districts across Turkey based on astronomical calculations. These times are determined according to the sun's angle below the horizon (the fajr angle). Diyanet uses 18 degrees as the fajr angle, which means the Fajr adhan is recited at the exact moment fajr al-sadiq begins. You can follow current Fajr adhan times via EzanVaktim.com or Diyanet's official mobile app. The dynamic clock indicator at the top of the page automatically displays the current Fajr adhan time based on your location.
When Does the Fajr Prayer Time Begin?
The time for Fajr prayer begins with the rising of the second dawn, called fajr al-sadiq, and continues until the disc of the sun begins to appear above the horizon (tulu' al-shams / sunrise). In fiqh sources, the Fajr prayer time is precisely defined between these two moments. However, behind this seemingly simple definition lies an astronomical and jurisprudential depth that Islamic scholars have been meticulously examining for centuries.
Distinguishing between fajr al-sadiq and fajr al-kadhib is vital for the correct determination of Fajr prayer time. Fajr al-kadhib (false dawn) is a thin white strip of light rising vertically on the horizon during the darkness of night and disappearing within a short time. This light is formed by the reflection of sunlight off the upper layers of the atmosphere and is not the herald of true light. Fajr al-sadiq (true dawn), on the other hand, is a brightness that spreads horizontally along the horizon, continuously widening and increasing. This brightness no longer disappears; rather, it constantly grows and continues until sunrise. In Islamic jurisprudence, the time of Fajr prayer begins with the appearance of fajr al-sadiq.
Astronomically, fajr al-sadiq occurs when the sun reaches a certain degree below the horizon. Different Islamic authorities around the world use different values for this angle. In Turkey, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) uses 18 degrees as the fajr angle. Al-Azhar University in Egypt uses 19.5 degrees, while the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) calculates with 15 degrees. This difference can lead to differences of several minutes between imsak times in various countries. The 18-degree angle used by Turkey is generally considered a middle value and is regarded as one of the measurements that best reflects jurisprudential precision.
The relationship between imsak time and Fajr prayer time is often confused. Technically, imsak time and the start of Fajr prayer are the same moment; both begin with the rising of fajr al-sadiq. However, in Turkey, in Diyanet calendars — especially for those who will fast in Ramadan — imsak time is displayed slightly earlier with a precautionary margin (temkin) added. This precautionary margin is generally around 5–10 minutes and is set to ensure the fasting person's safety. Therefore, the imsak time we see in Ramadan calendars points to a few minutes before the actual beginning of Fajr prayer.
Establish prayer at the two ends of the day and at the approach of the night. Indeed, good deeds remove bad deeds.
Modern technology has greatly facilitated the determination of Fajr prayer time. Today, astronomical calculations can be performed with extreme precision, and instant prayer times can be calculated for anyone through GPS-supported apps and websites. Nevertheless, observing the sky and personally recognizing fajr al-sadiq remains a valuable piece of knowledge and experience for a Muslim. This becomes a practical necessity especially for those in rural areas far from city lights, or those camping outdoors.
How Many Rakats is the Fajr Prayer?
The Fajr prayer is performed as a total of 4 rakats: 2 rakats sunnah and 2 rakats fard. There is no difference of opinion on this number among the four major madhhabs (Hanafi, Shafi'i, Maliki, Hanbali). The Fajr prayer has the fewest rakats among the five daily prayers, yet it is one of the greatest prayers in terms of reward and merit.
The sunnah of Fajr prayer: 2 rakats, classified as muakkad sunnah. Muakkad sunnah are sunnahs that the Prophet (peace be upon him) almost never abandoned and strongly recommended to his ummah. The sunnah of Fajr prayer is the strongest among all muakkad sunnahs. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated: "The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not pay as much attention to any voluntary prayer as he did to the two rakats of sunnah before the Fajr prayer." (Bukhari, Tahajjud, 27; Muslim, Musafirin, 66).
The fard of Fajr prayer: 2 rakats, obligatory upon every sane, adult Muslim. The fard of Fajr prayer can be performed from the rising of fajr al-sadiq until sunrise. When performed in congregation, the imam leads by reciting longer in the first rakat and slightly shorter in the second. The Prophet (peace be upon him) strongly emphasized praying the fard of Fajr in congregation, saying: "If people knew the reward for the Isha and Fajr prayers in congregation, they would come even if they had to crawl" (Bukhari, Adhan, 9).
| Prayer | Type | Rakats | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fajr Sunnah | Sunnah | 2 | Muakkad sunnah — the strongest sunnah |
| Fajr Fard | Fard | 2 | Fard al-ayn — obligatory upon every Muslim |
The sunnah of Fajr must be performed before the fard. If you arrive at the mosque when the congregation has already started praying, there are different views among the madhhabs regarding whether to pray the sunnah or not. According to the Hanafi madhhab, if praying the sunnah will still allow you to catch at least one rakat of the fard, you should pray the sunnah and then follow the imam. If not, you join the imam directly, and the sunnah is not made up after the fard. According to the Shafi'i madhhab, if there is time, the sunnah may be prayed; otherwise it can be performed after the fard until sunrise. On this matter, the famous Hanafi jurist Imam al-Sarakhsi stated that praying the sunnah and joining the congregation is more virtuous.
How is the Fajr Prayer Performed?
The Fajr prayer is performed first with 2 rakats sunnah and then 2 rakats fard. Each part's steps are explained in detail below. Before beginning the prayer, the conditions of being in a state of wudu, covering the awrah, facing the qiblah, and being within the prayer time must be fulfilled.
Fajr Sunnah Prayer (2 Rakats)
Intention (Niyyah) and Opening Takbir
Make the intention in the heart: "I intend to perform the sunnah of the Fajr prayer." Raise the hands to the level of the ears (women to shoulder level) and say "Allahu Akbar" to begin the prayer.
Qiyam (Standing Recitation)
Place the hands below the navel (Hanafi) or on the chest (Shafi'i). Recite in order: Subhanaka, Ta'awwudh and Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah (e.g., Surah al-Kafirun).
Ruku (Bowing)
Saying "Allahu Akbar", bow down, place the hands on the knees, and keep the back straight. Say "Subhana Rabbiyal Azim" three times.
Standing Up (Qawma) and Prostration (Sujood)
Rise saying "Sami'allahu liman hamidah" and say "Rabbana lakal hamd." Then say "Allahu Akbar" and go into prostration; say "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" three times. After a brief sitting, perform the second prostration.
Second Rakat
Stand up saying "Allahu Akbar". Recite Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah (e.g., Surah al-Ikhlas). Perform ruku and prostrations as in the first rakat.
Final Sitting and Salam
After the second prostration, sit down. Recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu), Allahumma salli, Allahumma barik, and Rabbana atina supplications. Give the salam by turning the head right then left, saying "As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah."
Fajr Fard Prayer (2 Rakats)
The fard of Fajr is performed after the sunnah. If praying in congregation, the iqamah is called and the imam is followed. If praying alone, it is performed very similarly to the sunnah. The main differences are:
- Intention: Make the intention: "I intend to perform the fard of the Fajr prayer." If praying in congregation, add "following the imam."
- Audible recitation: The imam recites aloud (jahr) in the fard of Fajr. Anyone praying alone may also recite aloud if they wish.
- Qunut supplication: In the Shafi'i madhhab, Qunut is recited after rising from ruku in the second rakat. In the Hanafi madhhab, Qunut is not recited in the regular Fajr prayer, but is recited in the Witr prayer.
- Surah selection: The imam recites longer surahs in Fajr compared to other prayers. This is the practice of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
The reward for praying Fajr in congregation is twenty-seven times greater than praying alone. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever prays Fajr in congregation, it is as if he spent the entire night in prayer" (Muslim, Masajid, 260). For this reason, striving to pray Fajr in congregation at the mosque is an act of great reward. Today many mosques offer the opportunity to pray Fajr in congregation, and taking advantage of this is an important opportunity for believers.
Khushu (heart's presence and concentration) is especially important in the Fajr prayer. Waking up in the last hours of the night and standing before Allah is one of the most effective ways of training the soul. For this reason, preparing the heart even while performing wudu in preparation for Fajr, trying to free the mind from worldly thoughts, and performing the prayer calmly without haste, is of great importance.
The Sunnah of Fajr Prayer and its Importance
The two rakats of sunnah of the Fajr prayer are better than the world and all that is in it.
This noble hadith constitutes the clearest declaration of the place of the sunnah of Fajr prayer in Islam. The Prophet (peace be upon him), who considered these two rakats more valuable than all the things in the world, is reported never to have abandoned them — not even while traveling. Mother Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "I did not see the Prophet (peace be upon him) place as much importance on any voluntary prayer as he did on the two rakats of sunnah before the Fajr prayer" (Bukhari).
There are many hadith about the merit of the sunnah of Fajr prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended performing this prayer lightly, that is, with short surahs. According to narrations, he would recite Surah al-Kafirun in the first rakat and Surah al-Ikhlas in the second. Some reports also indicate that he preferred praying it at home; however, the majority of scholars have stated that if one has come to the mosque, it is permissible to pray the sunnah there as well.
The Fajr prayer itself has great merits. In the Qur'an it is stated: "Establish the prayer at the decline of the sun until the darkness of the night and recite the Qur'an at dawn. Indeed, the recitation at dawn is ever witnessed." (Surah al-Isra, 78). The expression "ever witnessed" in this verse indicates that the moment of changeover between the night angels and day angels is the time of Fajr, and that both groups of angels meet during the Fajr prayer. This shows how special a place the Fajr prayer holds in the heavens.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that whoever prays Fajr is under Allah's protection: "Whoever prays Fajr is under Allah's protection (in His covenant). So beware lest Allah find fault with you regarding His covenant" (Muslim). This hadith is glad tidings that the one who prays Fajr will spend their day under Allah's protection and blessing. It is also reported that those who pray Fajr in congregation gain the reward as if they had also prayed Isha in congregation.
The social dimension of the Fajr prayer should not be overlooked. Coming to the mosque early and praying in congregation strengthens solidarity and brotherhood among Muslims. In Ottoman civilization, gatherings of conversation, circles of knowledge, and discussions of social issues would take place in mosques after the Fajr prayer. The revival of this tradition today will significantly contribute to the strengthening of the Muslim community.
What Does Imsak Time Mean?
The word "imsak" is derived from the Arabic verb "amsaka", meaning "to hold, to restrain oneself, to refrain from eating and drinking." In Islamic jurisprudence, imsak time refers to the period when the fasting person must refrain from eating, drinking, and other acts that break the fast — beginning with the rising of fajr al-sadiq. This time also marks the entrance of the Fajr prayer time.
The starting time of fasting is described in the Qur'an as follows: "Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread, then complete the fast until night." (Surah al-Baqarah, 187). The "white thread" mentioned in this noble verse symbolizes fajr al-sadiq, i.e., the beginning of dawn breaking on the horizon. The "black thread" represents the darkness of the night. Therefore, the cut-off point for the fasting person's eating and drinking is the visible formation of fajr al-sadiq.
The importance of imsak time during Ramadan is especially great. Muslims who wake up for suhur throughout Ramadan should complete their eating and drinking by imsak and begin their fast at that time. The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of suhur, saying: "Eat suhur, for in suhur there is blessing" (Bukhari, Sawm, 20). However, it is recommended to finish the suhur meal a few minutes before imsak as a precaution.
In the Ramadan imsakiye calendars published by the Presidency of Religious Affairs in Turkey, the time stated as imsak is a few minutes earlier than the astronomically determined fajr al-sadiq time. This practice is called the "temkin period" (precautionary margin) and aims to ensure the safety of those fasting. The temkin period is generally around 7–10 minutes. For this reason, the imsak time you see in imsakiye calendars is slightly earlier than the actual rising of fajr al-sadiq. Those fasting should stop eating and drinking based on this time.
A point to note regarding imsak time is that different calculation methods may produce different results. Because different Islamic authorities around the world use different values for the fajr angle, differences of several minutes may occur between imsak times. Therefore, it is best to rely on the official calendar published by the relevant religious authority in your country. For Turkey, this institution is the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet).
How Many Minutes Are There Between the Fajr Adhan and Sunrise?
The duration between the Fajr adhan (imsak) and sunrise varies depending on the season and location. This duration is of great importance, as it determines the time available to perform the Fajr prayer. Across Turkey, this period varies between approximately 75 and 110 minutes.
| Month | Istanbul (min) | Ankara (min) | Antalya (min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | ~105 | ~100 | ~95 |
| February | ~100 | ~98 | ~93 |
| March | ~95 | ~92 | ~88 |
| April | ~90 | ~87 | ~85 |
| May | ~85 | ~82 | ~80 |
| June | ~78 | ~76 | ~76 |
| July | ~80 | ~78 | ~77 |
| August | ~87 | ~84 | ~82 |
| September | ~93 | ~90 | ~87 |
| October | ~98 | ~95 | ~90 |
| November | ~103 | ~98 | ~93 |
| December | ~107 | ~102 | ~96 |
The table above shows the approximate difference between the Fajr adhan and sunrise for three different cities by month. As can be seen, this period shortens in summer (approximately 76–85 minutes) and lengthens in winter (approximately 95–107 minutes). This is due to seasonal variations in how much earlier fajr al-sadiq begins before sunrise.
The practical implications of this time difference are as follows: You can plan sufficient time to perform the Fajr prayer. For example, if you know that in summer in Istanbul the Fajr adhan is recited around 03:30 and sunrise is around 05:30, you can understand that you have about a 2-hour window to perform Fajr. However, since postponing the prayer to the end of its time is considered makruh, the most virtuous approach is to begin the prayer in the early minutes after the Fajr adhan. The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended "praying at the beginning of the time."
This duration also varies across different regions of Turkey. In the cities of the northeastern region (such as Kars, Ardahan, Iğdır), the period between imsak and sunrise is shorter in summer, while in southern cities (such as Hatay, Mersin) it is relatively longer. Between east and west, although the times shift due to longitude differences, the duration between imsak and sunrise remains roughly the same, as both are tied to the same astronomical phenomenon.
When is the Last Time for Fajr Prayer?
The last time for the Fajr prayer is the moment when the disc of the sun begins to appear above the eastern horizon (tulu' al-shams). From the moment the sun begins to rise, the time for Fajr has ended. After this, anyone wishing to pray Fajr must do so with the intention of "qada" (makeup). The four major madhhabs are unanimous on this point.
However, attention should be drawn here to the important concept of karahat time. The period of approximately 40–45 minutes after sunrise is called karahat time. Praying during this period is makruh (not correct, although the prayer is valid). According to the Hanafi madhhab, makeup prayers (qada) can be performed during karahat time, but voluntary prayers cannot. Ideally, the prayer should be completed before sunrise — that is, within the Fajr prayer time.
As a practical recommendation, the Fajr prayer should be completed at least 15–20 minutes before sunrise. This provides a safety margin to be sure of the time and allows for a prayer performed with khushu rather than a hurried one. Especially in summer, when the period between imsak and sunrise is shorter, waking up early and praying on time becomes even more important.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended praying Fajr in "isfar", that is, after the surroundings have become light. This indicates a time when fajr al-sadiq has become clearly distinct, but there is still sufficient time before sunrise. Nevertheless, in order to allow the congregation to gather and give a reasonable time for everyone to come to prayer, mosque Fajr prayer times usually start a few minutes after imsak.
What Should Those Who Miss the Fajr Prayer Do?
Those who miss the Fajr prayer due to sleep, forgetfulness, or other excuses should immediately perform the makeup (qada) prayer as soon as they remember or wake up. The Prophet (peace be upon him) gave the following clear statement on this matter: "Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps through it should pray it when he remembers. There is no expiation other than this." (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 37; Muslim, Masajid, 314).
The method of performing the makeup prayer is as follows: Only the 2 rakats fard of the Fajr prayer are made up; the sunnah is not made up. The intention should be: "I intend to perform the fard of the last Fajr prayer I missed." The performance of the prayer is the same as when prayed within its time; there is no difference.
Those who miss the prayer due to sleep are not considered sinful, since sleep is not a voluntary state. However, a person who paves the way for missing the prayer by going to bed late or not setting an alarm may be held responsible for this carelessness. Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "Missing prayer due to sleep is better than intentionally abandoning it." Nevertheless, frequently missing the Fajr prayer and making it a habit is a serious religious negligence, and along with repentance, the necessary precautions must be taken.
According to a narration, the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions once slept through the Fajr prayer due to exhaustion during a journey. When they awoke, the Prophet led them to another place and said: "This is a place where Satan was present" — and they performed the makeup prayer there (Muslim). This event shows that even the Prophet, as a human being, could sleep through prayer, while also emphasizing the importance of immediately making it up upon awakening.
For those who miss the Fajr prayer, it is also important to know the karahat times. From sunrise until approximately 40–45 minutes after (the ishraq time), it is makruh to perform voluntary prayers. However, makeup prayers are an exception; according to the Hanafi madhhab, makeup prayers may be performed at any time. According to the Shafi'i madhhab, while some scholars hold that makeup prayers should not be performed during karahat times, it is permitted in cases of necessity. In conclusion, anyone who misses the Fajr prayer should make it up immediately without delay and take the necessary precautions to avoid missing it again.
Practical Methods for Waking Up for the Fajr Prayer
Waking up for the Fajr prayer is one of the greatest challenges for many Muslims. Especially in summer when the Fajr adhan falls at very early hours, and in winter when it is necessary to get out of a warm bed in the dark, these are situations that test one's willpower. However, with the right strategy and determination, this challenge is not insurmountable. The following practical methods will be helpful for those who want to wake up regularly for the Fajr prayer.
1. Develop the Habit of Sleeping Early
Avoiding unnecessary work and entertainment after the Isha prayer and going to bed early is the most fundamental condition for waking up for Fajr. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also did not look favorably on chatting after Isha prayer. Ideally, going to bed between 22:00 and 23:00 makes it easier to wake up for Fajr.
2. Set Multiple Alarms
Set your phone alarm at least twice — once 10 minutes before imsak and once at imsak. Placing the alarm far from your bedroom so you have to get up is also an effective method. Additionally, adhan apps can automatically wake you up at the Fajr adhan time.
3. Sleep with Intention and Supplication
Before sleeping, make the heartfelt intention to wake up for Fajr and ask Allah for help. Reading the supplications of sleep (Ayat al-Kursi, Amenarrasulu, the three Qul surahs) and renewing your intention provides spiritual preparation. The Prophet (peace be upon him) would say when going to sleep: "Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya" (O Allah, in Your name I die and live).
4. Get Used to the Night Prayer (Tahajjud)
Someone who develops the habit of being awake during the last third of the night (the time of sahar) has no difficulty waking up for Fajr. The habit of praying Tahajjud is both a great source of spiritual reward and serves as a natural bridge to the Fajr prayer.
5. Get Support from Family or Friends
Family members living in the same home can wake each other for Fajr. Forming a Fajr prayer group among friends and calling each other is also an effective method. The sense of social responsibility supports individual willpower.
6. Keep Evening Meals Light
Heavy meals cause deep sleep and make it harder to wake up in the morning. Keeping evening meals light regulates sleep and makes waking up easier. The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended eating less and advised dividing the stomach into thirds: one-third for food, one-third for water, and one-third for breathing.
Applying all of these methods at once may be difficult. The important thing is to progress gradually and follow a patient strategy. First building the habit of sleeping early, then organizing alarms, and gradually transitioning to Tahajjud will make Fajr a natural part of life. Remember that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are continuous, even if small" (Bukhari). Starting with small steps and being consistent is more valuable than great but intermittent efforts.
Fajr Adhan Text and Recitation
Unlike the adhans of the other prayer times, the Fajr adhan contains a special phrase. Below are the full text of the Fajr adhan, its transliteration, and its English meaning.
Fajr Adhan Text
اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (4 times) — Allah is the Greatest
اَشْهَدُ اَنْ لَا اِلٰهَ اِلَّا اللهُ
Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah (2 times) — I bear witness that there is no god but Allah
اَشْهَدُ اَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللهِ
Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Rasulullah (2 times) — I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah
حَيَّ عَلَى الصَّلَاةِ
Hayya 'ala as-salah (2 times) — Hasten to prayer
حَيَّ عَلَى الْفَلَاحِ
Hayya 'ala al-falah (2 times) — Hasten to success
اَلصَّلَاةُ خَيْرٌ مِنَ النَّوْمِ
As-salatu khayrun mina an-nawm (2 times) — Prayer is better than sleep
This phrase is recited only in the Fajr adhan.
اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ اَللهُ اَكْبَرُ
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar — Allah is the Greatest
لَا اِلٰهَ اِلَّا اللهُ
La ilaha illallah — There is no god but Allah
Adhan Supplication (Du'a Recited After the Adhan)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "When you hear the adhan, repeat what the muezzin says. Then send salawat upon me... Then ask Allah for al-wasilah for me" (Muslim, Salat, 11). Accordingly, during the adhan one should repeat each phrase of the muezzin, while during "Hayya 'ala as-salah" and "Hayya 'ala al-falah" one should say "La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah" (There is no power or strength except with Allah). During the Fajr adhan's "As-salatu khayrun mina an-nawm" phrase, one should say "Sadaqta wa barirta" (You have spoken the truth and acted righteously).
Supplication After the Adhan
اَللّٰهُمَّ رَبَّ هٰذِهِ الدَّعْوَةِ التَّامَّةِ وَالصَّلَاةِ الْقَائِمَةِ اٰتِ مُحَمَّدًا الْوَسٖيلَةَ وَالْفَضٖيلَةَ وَابْعَثْهُ مَقَامًا مَحْمُودًا الَّذٖى وَعَدْتَهُ
"Allahumma Rabba hadhihi al-da'wati al-tammah wa as-salati al-qa'imah, ati Muhammadan al-wasilata wa al-fadilah, wab'athhu maqaman mahmudan alladhi wa'adtah."
Meaning: "O Allah! Lord of this perfect call and the prayer to be performed! Grant to Muhammad al-wasilah (a high station in Paradise) and al-fadilah (eminence), and raise him to the praiseworthy station that You have promised him."
The Prophet (peace be upon him) gave glad tidings to those who recite this supplication after the adhan: "Whoever recites this supplication after hearing the adhan, my intercession on the Day of Judgment will become permissible for him" (Bukhari, Adhan, 8). For this reason, reciting this supplication after every adhan — and especially after the Fajr adhan — is a great source of reward and means of intercession.
Surahs Recited in the Fajr Prayer
The Fajr prayer is one of the prayers in which long recitation is sunnah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to recite longer surahs in Fajr compared to other prayers. The surahs recited in the sunnah and fard portions of the Fajr prayer differ.
In the Sunnah Prayer
- 1st Rakat: Al-Fatihah + Surah al-Kafirun
- 2nd Rakat: Al-Fatihah + Surah al-Ikhlas
This was the continuous practice of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
In the Fard Prayer
- 1st Rakat: Al-Fatihah + A long surah (20–100 verses)
- 2nd Rakat: Al-Fatihah + A shorter surah
The imam chooses the surah based on the congregation's situation.
Some of the surahs the Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have recited in the fard of Fajr include: Surah al-Waqi'ah, Surah al-Mulk, Surah Ya-Sin, Surah at-Tur, Surah Qaf, Surah al-Muzzammil, and Surah at-Takwir. It is also a sunnah of the Prophet to recite Surah as-Sajdah and Surah al-Insan (ad-Dahr) in the Fajr prayer on Fridays (Bukhari, Jumu'ah, 10). These narrations highlight the importance of long recitation in the Fajr prayer.
Individuals praying Fajr alone may recite any surah they know after al-Fatihah. However, if possible, choosing long surahs is more in line with the sunnah practice. Short surahs may also be chosen; the prayer is valid in any case. What is important is that the verses recited are pronounced correctly with proper tajweed and reflected upon in meaning. In the Fajr prayer, recitation is performed aloud (jahr); this allows both the worshipper and the listeners to benefit from the verses.
Fajr Adhan Times in Summer and Winter
Due to Turkey's geographical position, Fajr adhan times show significant differences between summer and winter months. This variation is directly related to the lengthening and shortening of the night caused by the Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the sun. In the Northern Hemisphere, nights are shortest at the summer solstice (June 21) and longest at the winter solstice (December 21).
| City | Summer (June) | Winter (December) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | ~03:28 | ~06:32 | ~3 hours |
| Ankara | ~03:15 | ~06:15 | ~3 hours |
| Izmir | ~03:38 | ~06:38 | ~3 hours |
| Antalya | ~03:35 | ~06:20 | ~2h 45m |
| Trabzon | ~02:55 | ~06:05 | ~3h 10m |
| Diyarbakir | ~02:50 | ~05:50 | ~3 hours |
| Hatay | ~03:15 | ~06:00 | ~2h 45m |
As can be seen from the table above, the Fajr adhan difference between summer and winter varies between approximately 2 hours 45 minutes and 3 hours 10 minutes. The practical result of this large difference is that the Fajr prayer falls in very early hours in summer. Especially in June and July, the Fajr adhan being recited around 03:30 in Istanbul presents a serious challenge for many Muslims.
Since 2016, Turkey has implemented permanent daylight saving time (UTC+3). This practice causes the Fajr adhan to be expressed at a later clock time in winter. For example, without daylight saving, imsak in December in Istanbul would be around 05:32, whereas with permanent daylight saving it appears as 06:32. While this means waking up later in winter for those who pray Fajr, the actual astronomical time does not change.
To keep track of seasonal changes, it is important to regularly check current prayer times. EzanVaktim.com automatically calculates and displays the current Fajr adhan time based on your location. By enabling mobile notifications, you can receive reminders before the Fajr adhan, so you don't miss seasonal changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times is the Fajr adhan recited?
The Fajr adhan, like the adhans of the other prayer times, is recited once for each prayer. However, it is important to note that the Fajr adhan differs from the others by containing the phrase "As-salatu khayrun mina an-nawm" (Prayer is better than sleep). The Fajr adhan is recited by the muezzin at the moment fajr al-sadiq rises. In some mosques the Fajr adhan is recited from the minarets with a louder voice, especially to serve the purpose of waking the neighborhood. In the Ottoman period, there was also a tradition of giving "sala" before the Fajr adhan; however, this practice is not common today.
Is it sinful not to pray the sunnah of Fajr?
The sunnah of Fajr prayer is in the muakkad sunnah category. Muakkad sunnah refers to sunnahs that the Prophet (peace be upon him) almost never abandoned. Abandoning the muakkad sunnah without excuse is not a sin, but it is a cause for reproach and deprivation of great reward. Mother Aisha reported that the Prophet never abandoned the sunnah of Fajr. Therefore, abandoning the sunnah of Fajr without a valid excuse is not correct, and one should strive to at least perform it.
Can water be drunk at imsak time?
Before imsak time enters — that is, up until the imsak time stated in the calendar — drinking water and eating food are permissible. After imsak enters, the fasting person must refrain from eating, drinking, and other acts contrary to fasting. Since the imsak time set by the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) already includes a certain precautionary margin (temkin), eating and drinking up to the imsak time listed in the calendar is permissible. However, if there is food or drink in the mouth exactly at imsak time, it must be removed and not swallowed; swallowing it would break the fast.
Can the Fajr sunnah be prayed after the fard?
According to the Hanafi madhhab, the sunnah of Fajr is performed before the fard. If you arrive late to the congregation and did not pray the sunnah, the sunnah is not made up after the fard. However, according to the Shafi'i madhhab, if there is still time until sunrise, the sunnah of Fajr can be performed after the fard. There are differences between madhhabs on this issue. According to the Hanafi view, it is recommended to wait until karahat time (ishraq) has passed before performing voluntary prayers after the fard.
Can the Fajr prayer be performed after sunrise?
After sunrise, the time for Fajr prayer has ended. After this, the Fajr prayer can only be performed with the intention of "qada" (makeup). In the makeup prayer, only the 2 rakats fard are performed; the sunnah is not. According to the Hanafi madhhab, the makeup prayer can be performed at any time, even during karahat times. According to the Shafi'i madhhab, there is the view that performing makeup prayers during karahat times is not permissible. The important thing is to perform the Fajr prayer within its time as much as possible and finish before sunrise.
What should be done while the Fajr adhan is being recited?
The first thing to do when the adhan is being recited is to silently repeat the phrases the muezzin says. During "Hayya 'ala as-salah" and "Hayya 'ala al-falah", one says "La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah." Specifically for the Fajr adhan, when "As-salatu khayrun mina an-nawm" is said, it is sunnah to say "Sadaqta wa barirta" (You have spoken the truth and acted righteously). After the adhan ends, salawat is sent upon the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the post-adhan supplication is recited. It is also a matter of proper conduct to refrain from talking during the adhan, to pause what you are doing if possible, and to listen to the adhan with khushu.
What is the difference between fajr al-sadiq and fajr al-kadhib?
Fajr al-kadhib (false dawn) is a thin white strip of light that rises vertically on the eastern horizon during the last part of the night. This light disappears within a short time and darkness once again prevails. Fajr al-sadiq (true dawn) is a brightness that spreads horizontally along the horizon, continuously growing and never receding. The prayer time and imsak begin with fajr al-sadiq; during fajr al-kadhib neither the Fajr prayer time has entered nor has the fast started. Knowing this distinction is of great importance, especially in situations where there is no access to calendars or clocks.
What is the virtue of praying Fajr in congregation?
Many virtues of praying Fajr in congregation are stated in noble hadiths. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever prays Fajr in congregation, it is as if he spent the entire night in prayer" (Muslim). In another hadith: "If people knew the reward of the Fajr and Isha prayers in congregation, they would come even if they had to crawl" (Bukhari). Additionally, the prayer performed in congregation is 27 times more virtuous than that performed alone (Bukhari, Muslim). The person who prays Fajr in congregation spends the day under Allah's protection and is far from the sign of hypocrisy that is abandoning the Fajr prayer.
