Announcing the Adhan using a recorder

Q: I work in a company where the Adhan (call to Prayer) of Zhuhr (Noon) and `Asr (Afternoon) Prayers is announced using a recorder. What is the ruling on this? Is this Adhan considered Shar`y (Islamically lawful)? Is it sufficient to pronounce the Adhan in the Musalla (a place for Prayer), taking into consideration that only a small number of employees hear it owing to the largeness of the company? What is your opinion with regard to pronouncing the Iqamah (call to start the Prayer) using a loudspeaker to draw the attention of those who do not hear the Adhan?

A: Announcing the Adhan using a recorder does not comply with the Shar`y Adhan, which is prescribed to notify the people that the time of Salah (Prayer) has become due. It is not an actual Adhan but only a recorded voice whereas the Adhan is an act of worship that must involve both intention and deed. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: The reward of deeds depends on the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what they have intended. Thereupon, the Adhan must be announced when the time of Salah becomes due in the place where Salah is offered. If there is a need for a loudspeaker to inform the people so that they come (Part No. 5; Page No. 63) and offer Salah, there is no harm in using it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.