May Allah reward you with goodness. Brother Abdul Rahman asked about the Friday prayer before the zenith. He is asking about its time, saying: Is it like the time of Dhuhr?

The scholars have differed regarding the beginning time of the Friday prayer, even though they agree on its ending time.

As for its beginning time, the scholars have differed on this with several opinions, summarized in two views.

The majority of scholars hold that the time for Jumu'ah is like the time for Dhuhr prayer, meaning it begins at the zenith and ends when the time for Asr begins.

A group of scholars, including Imam Ahmad—may Allah have mercy on him—said that the time for Jumu'ah prayer is from the forenoon, so it is permissible to pray before that, and they use as evidence the narration of Jabir ibn Abdullah and others.

In any case, we say that the most apparent view, which is supported by the evidence.

The Friday prayer is to be held after the sun has risen, so when the time of duha begins, the time for Jumu'ah has begun. If the imam prays before the adhan of Dhuhr, then we say there is no problem in that, especially if it is easier for the people.

And it is permissible for them to pray Jumu'ah during duha so that they have an hour of time.

To take care of their needs, like on holidays and similar occasions, so we say there is flexibility in this, and Allah knows best.