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In regard to Jumu`ah prayers, what is the minimum number of people required to pray in congregation behind the imam? I have heard different opinions in reference to this, such as some brothers have told me that a minimum of 40 people are required while others have said 2. A different source has also said that only 2 people can constitute a congregation for Jumu`ah prayers. Can you please clarify this question for me?
Praise be to Allah.
The Standing Committee for Issuing Fatwas was asked the following question:
What is the number of men required for Jumu`ah prayer to be valid? Some people say that it is not valid with less than forty men, and if there is one less than that, they should pray Zuhr.
They replied:
“Establishing Jumu`ah prayers is obligatory upon the Muslims in their villages on Fridays, and it is necessary for there to be a congregation in order for the Jumu`ah prayer to be valid. There is no proven evidence which states that a specific number is required; for the prayer to be valid it is sufficient for there to be three or more people.
It is not permissible for a person who is obliged to pray Jumu`ah to pray Zuhr in its place when there are less than forty people present according to the correct scholarly view.
And Allah is the source of strength. May Allah bless our Prophet Muhammad and his family and Companions, and grant them peace.”
For more, please see this category: Friday Prayer.
And Allah knows best.