Muezzin

A muezzin (Arabic: مُؤَذِّن‎, muʾadhdhin) is a person appointed at a mosque to lead, and recite, the call to prayer (adhan) for every event of prayer in the mosque. The muezzin traditionally performs this duty from a minaret, a tall tower attached to or near the mosque. In modern times, however, some mosques use electronic amplification and speakers placed on the minaret or elsewhere.

The role of the muezzin is considered an honor in Islam, as they are responsible for reminding the community of their religious obligations and inviting them to worship. Traditionally, muezzins were selected for their good character, strong voice, and knowledge of Islamic prayer times and procedures.

The adhan is a melodic and rhythmic call consisting of specific phrases praising God (Allah) and proclaiming the core beliefs of Islam, namely the oneness of God and the acceptance of Muhammad as his final prophet. The adhan also includes an invitation to prayer and success.

The practice of having a designated muezzin dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad in the 7th century. Bilal ibn Rabah, an Abyssinian slave, is considered the first muezzin in Islam and was chosen by Muhammad for his beautiful voice.