The Legal Justification for a Mu'adhin (Caller to Prayer) Leading the Takbir as Imam
Based on: Fatawa of the Scholars of Hadith, Kitab al-Salah, Vol. 1, p. 173
If the Mu'adhin is also the Imam, can he himself call the Takbir (Iqamah)? What is the evidence for this?
If the Imam is also serving as the Mu'adhin, and a need arises, then he is permitted to call the Takbir (Iqamah) himself.
There is no evidence prohibiting this act; therefore, it is considered permissible.
The Noble Prophet ﷺ said:
"تَرَكْتُمُونِي مَا تَرَكْتُكُمْ"
Translation: “Leave me as long as I leave you.”
This general principle clarifies that a clear and explicit prohibition is required to declare something forbidden.
Since no such prohibition exists concerning the Imam himself giving the Iqamah, it remains permissible.
✔ If needed, the Mu'adhin who is also the Imam may call the Takbir himself.
✔ There is no Shar‘i evidence that forbids this practice.
✔ It is permissible under necessity and involves no wrongdoing.
Based on: Fatawa of the Scholars of Hadith, Kitab al-Salah, Vol. 1, p. 173
❖ Question
If the Mu'adhin is also the Imam, can he himself call the Takbir (Iqamah)? What is the evidence for this?
❖ Answer
If the Imam is also serving as the Mu'adhin, and a need arises, then he is permitted to call the Takbir (Iqamah) himself.
There is no evidence prohibiting this act; therefore, it is considered permissible.
❖ Evidence from Hadith
The Noble Prophet ﷺ said:
"تَرَكْتُمُونِي مَا تَرَكْتُكُمْ"
Translation: “Leave me as long as I leave you.”
This general principle clarifies that a clear and explicit prohibition is required to declare something forbidden.
Since no such prohibition exists concerning the Imam himself giving the Iqamah, it remains permissible.
❖ Summary
✔ If needed, the Mu'adhin who is also the Imam may call the Takbir himself.
✔ There is no Shar‘i evidence that forbids this practice.
✔ It is permissible under necessity and involves no wrongdoing.
