Saudis limit usage of loudspeakers in mosques

Saudi Arabian government has imposed restrictions on the use of loudspeakers in mosques in the country and said the use of loudspeakers would only be permissible for calls for prayers and Iqamat.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs issued a circular based on fatwas by senior Islamic scholars like Sheikh Mohammed bin Saleh Al Othaimeen and Saleh Al Fawzan, reports Gulf News.

The circular said that mosques have been asked to limit the use of loudspeakers only for prayer calls or Azaan and Iqama and lower the volume of loudspeakers to one-third level.

Azan is the first call for prayer, while Iqamat is the second call for prayer, indicating the Imam has taken his place facing towards the Kaaba and the prayer is about to commence.