How to iqamah

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: Iqamah is the second call to prayer, recited just before the congregational prayer (salah) begins. It is similar to the Adhan but is recited faster and typically only once. Muslims recite Iqamah to prepare themselves and the congregation for the immediate commencement of prayer.

Key Facts

Iqamah is recited before the Fard (obligatory) prayer.
It is recited once, unlike the Adhan which is recited twice (or four times for Fajr).
The wording is nearly identical to the Adhan, with the addition of 'Qad qamati-s-salah' (Prayer has begun) twice.
It is typically recited by a single person, often the muezzin or one of the congregants.
Reciting Iqamah is considered a Sunnah (practice or teaching of the Prophet Muhammad).

Overview

The Iqamah (Arabic: إِقَامَة‎, romanized: iqāmah), also known as the takbirat al-ihram in some contexts, is the second call to prayer in Islam. It is a significant declaration that signals the imminent commencement of the congregational prayer (salah). While the Adhan is the initial call to prayer, announcing the time for prayer and inviting Muslims to worship, the Iqamah serves as a final summons, indicating that the prayer is about to begin. It is recited only when the congregation is gathered and ready to pray.

The Significance of Iqamah

The Iqamah holds a special place in Islamic practice, emphasizing the importance of communal prayer. It serves as a clear signal that the time for prayer has arrived and that all preparations should be made to join the congregation. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the virtue of praying in congregation, and the Iqamah is an integral part of this collective worship experience. It fosters a sense of unity and discipline among Muslims, preparing their hearts and minds for their devotion to Allah.

How to Recite Iqamah

The Iqamah is very similar in wording to the Adhan, but it is recited more quickly and with slight modifications. It is generally recited by one person, often the muezzin, or by one of the congregants just before the Imam leads the prayer. The sequence of phrases is as follows:

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest)
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest)
Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah (I bear witness that there is no god but Allah)
Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah (I bear witness that there is no god but Allah)
Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Rasul Allah (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah)
Ashhadu anna Muhammadan Rasul Allah (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah)
Hayya 'ala-s-Salah (Hurry to the prayer)
Hayya 'ala-s-Salah (Hurry to the prayer)
Hayya 'ala-l-Falah (Hurry to success)
Hayya 'ala-l-Falah (Hurry to success)
Qad qamati-s-Salah, Qad qamati-s-Salah (The prayer has begun, The prayer has begun)
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest)
La ilaha illa Allah (There is no god but Allah)

Notice the key difference: the phrase 'Qad qamati-s-Salah' is added twice after 'Hayya 'ala-l-Falah'. This phrase specifically announces that the prayer is about to commence. Additionally, the Iqamah is typically recited only once, unlike the Adhan which is recited twice (or four times for Fajr).

When to Recite Iqamah

The Iqamah is recited immediately before the congregational prayer (Fard Salah) begins. It is called out when the congregation has gathered and is standing in rows, ready to pray. It is not recited for voluntary prayers (Nawafil) or for prayers performed individually, unless one is leading a group prayer and wishes to signal its start. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned the importance of reciting the Adhan and Iqamah for congregational prayers. It is considered a Sunnah (recommended practice) to recite both the Adhan and the Iqamah for the five daily obligatory prayers when they are performed in congregation.

Exceptions and Variations

While the general practice is consistent across the Muslim world, there might be minor variations in regional customs or interpretations regarding the precise timing or vocalization of the Iqamah. However, the core essence and wording remain largely the same. The primary purpose is to alert the congregation that the prayer is about to start, allowing everyone to finalize their preparations and stand in the correct formation.

The Wisdom Behind Iqamah

The Iqamah serves several important purposes:

Unity and Discipline: It brings the congregation together, ensuring everyone is ready and aligned for prayer.
Spiritual Readiness: It helps Muslims transition from worldly affairs to a state of spiritual focus and devotion.
Order in Worship: It provides a clear signal for the start of prayer, preventing confusion.
Reminder of Obligation: It reinforces the importance of fulfilling the obligatory prayers in a timely manner.

Understanding and practicing the Iqamah is a beautiful aspect of Islamic tradition that enhances the communal prayer experience, bringing Muslims closer to their Creator and to each other.