Q 2: While delivering the Friday Khutbah (sermon), the Wudu' (ablution) of the Khatib (preacher) was invalidated. Should he discontinue the Khutbah and perform Wudu', or what should he do?

A: It is indicated by Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) that it is strongly recommended that a Muslim should head to the Masjid (mosque) on Friday (Part No. 7; Page No. 134) after having performed Ghusl (full ritual bath) and Wudu'. This is based on the Hadith narrated on the authority of Samurah (may Allah be pleased with him) to the effect that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: Anyone who performs Wudu' on Friday, it is good; and if any of you performs Ghusl, it will be better. (Related by Ahmad and Ahl-ul-Sunan [authors of Hadith compilations classified by jurisprudential themes]) It is also reported on the authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudry (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Performing Ghusl on Friday is an obligation on every adult. (Related by Al-Bukhari) However, if the Imam's Wudu' is invalidated while delivering the Jumu`ah Khutbah, he should continue delivering it and perform Wudu' thereafter for the Jumu`ah Prayer. Wudu' is not a condition for the validity of the Khutbah, but a condition for the validity of any Salah (Prayer).May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.