Translating the Friday Khutbah


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Q: We have been sent from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to another country. We offer the Jumu`ah (Friday) Prayer in a place that we have prepared specifically for that purpose, although it is not a Masjid (mosque). Most of those who are offering Salah (Prayer) speak Arabic, but there is a small non-Arabic speaking Muslim minority who also offer Salah with us. We are differing as to whether the Friday Khutbah (sermon) should be delivered in Arabic or in English. At the moment, we deliver the Khutbah in Arabic and then translate it in sections. I mean that the Imam (the one who leads congregational Prayer) says the first two lines of the Khutbah in Arabic and then translates them into English. We hope that you will answer us, may Allah reward you, as we are in dire need to know the answer.


(Part No. 8; Page No. 255)  A: If the case is as mentioned, then the Friday Khutbah should be delivered in Arabic and then translated for the non-Arabic speaking minority into English or their own language. When translating it, you should consider what is best for the listeners; whether to translate each section or leave the translation to the end of the Khutbah. You should do what is better for the listeners.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.




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