Is Ghusl (full ritual bath) required before Friday prayer?

Ghusl before Friday prayer is a strongly recommended Sunnah for those attending the congregation, and many scholars consider it close to obligatory in emphasis given how clearly the Prophet ﷺ encouraged it, even though the five daily prayers remain valid without it. It reflects the spirit of presenting oneself clean, fragrant, and in one's best state for the weekly congregational gathering, alongside wearing clean clothes and applying pleasant scent where possible.