Sheikh Al-Sudais Shortens Friday Sermons Due to Extreme Heat

Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais, the overseer of the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, has instructed the imams at these revered sites to abbreviate their Friday sermons and prayers in response to the scorching temperatures. This decision comes as the annual Hajj pilgrimage is anticipated to attract a record number of participants this year, amidst challenging weather conditions.

Given that many pilgrims are required to pray in open spaces such as courtyards and rooftops, Sheikh Sudais has underscored the presence of elderly and vulnerable individuals. In order to safeguard the well-being of worshippers, he has recommended reducing the duration of recitations and minimizing the interval between the call to prayer (azan) and the commencement of the prayer (iqamah).

Quoting Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Sheikh Sudais has reminded the imams about the significance of delivering concise sermons. He has emphasized the necessity of prioritizing the health and safety of the pilgrims, particularly in the oppressive heat and congested environments.

Emphasizing the importance of the pulpit at the Two Holy Mosques as a platform for imparting crucial teachings of Islam, Sheikh Sudais has cautioned against prolonged sermons that could result in a loss of attentiveness among worshippers. Drawing on the example of Prophet Muhammad's clear and purposeful communication, he has stressed the value of conveying messages effectively for enhanced comprehension.

Sheikh Al-Sudais' directive to shorten Friday sermons at the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina due to extreme heat reflects a proactive approach to ensuring the comfort and safety of pilgrims during the Hajj season. By prioritizing concise speech and efficient communication, Sheikh Sudais aims to enhance the worship experience for all attendees, underscoring the importance of clarity and brevity in delivering religious teachings.