VOICED: Coordinating calls to prayer in Cairo

The call to prayer in Cairo, a centuries-old tradition, is facing potential changes as the government plans to streamline it into a single broadcast from state radio. This move aims to coordinate timing and monitor mosque messages but faces opposition from clerical leaders and muezzins, who view it as a spiritual vocation. While some residents support the change to reduce noise, others fear the loss of tradition and jobs. The government hopes to implement the synchronized broadcasts by year-end, but for now, Cairo continues to resonate with diverse calls to prayer.

What is the significance of the call to prayer in the daily life of people in Cairo?

How do the authorities plan to change the tradition of the call to prayer?

What are the concerns of the clerical leaders regarding the proposed changes to the call to prayer?

What impact might the proposed changes have on the community of Cairo?

In what ways do the individuals who perform the call to prayer view their role?