In which year of Hijri (A.H.) was the first Azan (Adhan) called out?

The first Azan (Adhan), the Islamic call to prayer, was introduced in the 1st year of Hijri (1 A.H.) after the migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the early Muslim community from Makkah to Madinah. The Azan was established to organize the daily prayers, remind Muslims of their religious duties, and unite the community in worship. The idea of the call to prayer was suggested to the Prophet (PBUH) in a dream, and he approved it as a practical and spiritual method to notify the community about prayer times.

Hazrat Bilal ibn Rabah (RA), a freed slave and a devoted companion of the Prophet (PBUH), was chosen to be the first Mu’adhin (caller to prayer) because of his melodious and powerful voice. Hazrat Bilal (RA) called out the Azan from the rooftops, signaling the beginning of the daily Salah (prayer) for the Muslim community. The introduction of the Azan not only marked the importance of regular prayer but also helped in building discipline, community cohesion, and spiritual consciousness among the early Muslims in Madinah.

The wording of the Azan is a declaration of faith and an invitation to worship Allah, consisting of phrases such as “Allahu Akbar”, “La ilaha illallah”, and “Hayya ‘ala-s-Salah”, which emphasize the greatness of Allah and the centrality of prayer in a Muslim’s life. The practice of calling the Azan has continued for over 1,400 years and remains one of the most recognizable symbols of Islamic faith worldwide.