Azhar Temporarily Suspends Friday Prayers

Moments ago, the ِAzhar Grand Imam, Professor  Ahmed Al-Tayyeb, decided to temporarily suspend Friday prayers as well as groupings in Al-Azhar Mosque, Egypt's top Sunni Islamic institution, amid measures adopted by all relevant authorities to contain any potential spread of Corona virus.

The decision which was issues this morning will get into effect starting from today, "to ensure the safety of worshipers, and until the elimination of the Corona epidemic".

The decree also noted that the call for prayers, due five times a day- will continue to take place, with a sentence to be added, calling people to stay home: «Pray in your homes».

The Grand Imam said that these measures come in support of the serious and effective steps taken by Egypt to prevent the spread of the Corona epidemic, and to protect the human soul that is one of the greatest priorities in Islamic law, which should be protected from all dangers and damages.

Last Sunday, the Council of Senior Scholars said that it is permitted under Sharia Law to suspend mass prayers, including the Friday prayer, to stem the spread of the corona virus.

An issued a statement said: "Due to the rapid spread of the virus, its lethality, and the lack of a cure, Muslims are exempted from attending the Friday prayer or mass prayers at mosques."

"The council affirms that it is permissible for the state to legislate the temporary halting of Friday or congregation prayers whenever it sees that such gatherings will lead to the spread of this dangerous virus," the council's statement added.