Jumuah is a public congregation involving a sermon and organized leadership. The classical Hanafi restriction to a central city reflects this public character. Al-Shafi‘i allows Friday prayer in qualifying settled villages as well, so the dispute concerns the criterion for a valid settlement.
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Why a central city was distinguished
Friday Prayer: Conditions, Khutbah, Congregation and Related Rulings
Jumuah is a public congregation involving a sermon and organized leadership. The classical Hanafi restriction to a central city reflects this public character. Al-Shafi‘i allows Friday prayer in qualifying settled villages as well, so the dispute concerns the criterion for a valid settlement.