Eid prayer is one of the most significant acts of worship for Muslims, performed on Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. It is a special prayer that brings the community together in gratitude and celebration. This guide will explain how to perform Eid prayer, its rulings, and its key aspects.
How to Perform Eid Prayer
Eid prayer consists of two rak’ahs (units of prayer) and is performed in congregation. It follows a unique structure compared to the regular daily prayers:
- First Rak’ah:
- The Imam begins with Takbirat al-Ihram (the opening Takbir).
- He then performs six or seven additional Takbirs before reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.
- After Al-Fatihah, the Imam recites either Surah Qaf or Surah Al-A’la (Sabih Isma Rabbika Al-A’la).
- The congregation completes the rak’ah as usual (bowing, prostrating, and standing for the second rak’ah).
- Second Rak’ah:
- The Imam says five additional Takbirs before reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.
- He then recites Surah Al-Qamar or Surah Al-Ghashiyah.
- The congregation completes the prayer as usual.
- After the Prayer:
- The Imam delivers a sermon (khutbah) reminding Muslims of their religious duties and the significance of Eid.
- It is recommended that the Imam dedicates part of the sermon to addressing women, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to do.
Key Rulings of Eid Prayer
- Eid prayer is performed before the sermon (unlike Jumu’ah prayer, where the sermon precedes the prayer).
- It should be performed in an open area (Musalla) if possible, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
- The prayer time starts after sunrise (when the sun has risen about a spear’s height) and lasts until just before Dhuhr.
The Importance of Eid Prayer
Eid prayer is a highly emphasized Sunnah in Islam. Some scholars even consider it a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah) or an individual obligation (Wajib) for men. The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged everyone, including women and children, to attend, with menstruating women staying away from the prayer area but joining in the gathering.
Additional Sunnah Practices for Eid
While this article focuses on how to perform Eid prayer, here are a few additional recommended practices:
- Reciting Takbir from the night before Eid until the prayer.
- Eating an odd number of dates before Eid al-Fitr prayer.
- Wearing clean and presentable clothes (without extravagance for men and avoiding adornment for women in public).
By following the correct method and understanding its significance, Muslims can perform Eid prayer in a way that aligns with the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him). May Allah accept our worship and grant us a blessed Eid!