Written by: Sheikh Mubashir Ahmed Rabbani (Hafizahullah)
"When you hear the call (Adhan), say what the Mu'adhdhin (the one giving the Adhan) says."
[Abu Dawood, Book of Salah, Chapter on What to Say When Hearing the Adhan: 522]
In light of this narration, some scholars view responding to the Adhan as obligatory, while others consider it recommended (Mustahabb). Even if it is obligatory, responding to just one Adhan is sufficient. There is no harm if you do not respond to multiple Adhans; however, doing so remains a virtuous act and carries reward.
As for responding to the Adhan of innovators (people of Bid'ah), Adhan remains Adhan regardless of who gives it. You should respond to it, as their innovation does not affect the validity of the words of truth (the Adhan). The sin of their innovations rests upon them. In responding to the Adhan, you are only affirming the truth.
Imam Bukhari (may Allah have mercy on him) narrates in Sahih Bukhari an account from Hasan al-Basri (may Allah have mercy on him), where he was asked about praying behind an Imam who engaged in Bid'ah. He responded:
"Pray, and his innovation is upon him."
[Sahih Bukhari, Book of Salah: Chapter on the Imamate of Those Who Are Subjected to Trials and Innovations]
Similarly, Ubaydullah bin Adi bin Khiyar (may Allah have mercy on him) visited Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him) during the time when he was besieged. He asked Uthman, "You have the right to lead the general public, but we are now in a difficult situation. If one of the rebels leads the prayer, we feel uneasy." Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him) replied:
"The best of people’s deeds is prayer. When they do good, pray with them; when they do wrong, avoid their wrong."
[Sahih Bukhari, Book of Salah: Chapter on the Imamate of Those Who Are Subjected to Trials and Innovations]
Thus, responding to the Adhan, even if called by those engaged in Bid'ah, is permissible and correct. The accountability for their errors lies with them.
Question:
Is it necessary to respond to multiple Adhans being called at the same time? Additionally, is it permissible to respond to the Adhan of innovators (those who engage in Bid'ah)?Answer:
Regarding the response to the Adhan, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:"When you hear the call (Adhan), say what the Mu'adhdhin (the one giving the Adhan) says."
[Abu Dawood, Book of Salah, Chapter on What to Say When Hearing the Adhan: 522]
In light of this narration, some scholars view responding to the Adhan as obligatory, while others consider it recommended (Mustahabb). Even if it is obligatory, responding to just one Adhan is sufficient. There is no harm if you do not respond to multiple Adhans; however, doing so remains a virtuous act and carries reward.
As for responding to the Adhan of innovators (people of Bid'ah), Adhan remains Adhan regardless of who gives it. You should respond to it, as their innovation does not affect the validity of the words of truth (the Adhan). The sin of their innovations rests upon them. In responding to the Adhan, you are only affirming the truth.
Imam Bukhari (may Allah have mercy on him) narrates in Sahih Bukhari an account from Hasan al-Basri (may Allah have mercy on him), where he was asked about praying behind an Imam who engaged in Bid'ah. He responded:
"Pray, and his innovation is upon him."
[Sahih Bukhari, Book of Salah: Chapter on the Imamate of Those Who Are Subjected to Trials and Innovations]
Similarly, Ubaydullah bin Adi bin Khiyar (may Allah have mercy on him) visited Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him) during the time when he was besieged. He asked Uthman, "You have the right to lead the general public, but we are now in a difficult situation. If one of the rebels leads the prayer, we feel uneasy." Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him) replied:
"The best of people’s deeds is prayer. When they do good, pray with them; when they do wrong, avoid their wrong."
[Sahih Bukhari, Book of Salah: Chapter on the Imamate of Those Who Are Subjected to Trials and Innovations]
Thus, responding to the Adhan, even if called by those engaged in Bid'ah, is permissible and correct. The accountability for their errors lies with them.