Is it permissible for the Imam to deliver the Friday sermon in English if most of the attendees do not understand Arabic?
Some scholars prohibit the translation of Friday sermons into foreign languages, with the aim of preserving the Arabic language and encouraging people to learn it. Others, however, permit translation if the majority of the audience does not understand Arabic, so that the sermon's purpose of clarifying rulings to people is achieved, taking into consideration that giving precedence to meanings and objectives is more important than giving precedence to words. If refraining from translation leads to dispute and discord, then translation becomes obligatory. If there are those who understand Arabic, then it is recommended to combine both languages. Evidence for this includes the Almighty’s saying: "And We did not send any messenger except with the language of his people to make [the message] clear for them." Also, the Prophet (peace be upon him) commanded Zayd ibn Thabit to learn the language of the Jews, and the Companions invited non-Arabs [to Islam] through interpreters. The preacher should consider what is most beneficial for the attendees in terms of translation.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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