Eid is a significant occasion in Islam, celebrated with joy and devotion by Muslims worldwide. The Eid prayer, whether for Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, holds immense spiritual value. Understanding how to perform Eid prayer correctly ensures that Muslims can fulfill this important act of worship in accordance with Islamic teachings. Teaching the proper way to perform Eid prayer is also part of Basic Islamic Teachings For Children, helping them grow up with a strong understanding of their faith. This article provides a step-by-step guide on Eid namaz how to pray, the importance of the prayer of Eid ul Fitr, and related etiquettes, as well as common mistakes to avoid.
Understanding the Importance of Eid Prayer
The prayer of Eid ul Fitr and Eid al-Adha is a special congregational prayer performed in the early morning after sunrise. It signifies gratitude to Allah and marks the completion of Ramadan or the beginning of the sacrificial rituals of Eid al-Adha. Performing Eid prayer is highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) and is an essential aspect of Eid celebrations.
Is Eid Prayer Mandatory?
The Eid prayer is not obligatory, but it carries immense spiritual rewards and is a strongly encouraged Sunnah. Attending this prayer allows you to follow the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and partake in the communal spirit of Eid, strengthening your connection with fellow Muslims and embracing the joy of this blessed occasion.
What Time Is Eid Salah?
Eid is one of the most significant celebrations in Islam, marking a time of joy, gratitude, and unity among Muslims worldwide. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is expected to be observed on Sunday, March 30, or Monday, March 31, depending on the sighting of the moon. Meanwhile, Eid al-Adha is likely to fall on Friday, June 6, also subject to moonsighting confirmation.
On these blessed days, Muslims come together to celebrate with their families, strengthen community bonds, and express their gratitude to Allah. It is also a time to reflect on our spiritual journey, seek signs that our dua will be accepted, and enhance our connection with the Quran and its reciters. As we engage in acts of worship, we are reminded of the number of ayat in the Quran and the pages that make up the Quran, deepening our appreciation for the divine guidance it provides.
Preparing for the Eid Prayer
Before performing the Eid prayer, there are several recommended Sunnah acts that should be observed to maximize the blessings of the day:
1. Performing Ghusl (Ritual Purification)
It is recommended to perform ghusl before heading to the Eid prayer. This act of purification signifies cleanliness and a fresh start on this joyous occasion.
2. Wearing Your Best Clothes
Eid is a time of celebration, and it is Sunnah to wear your best and cleanest clothes. Men are encouraged to wear perfume, while both men and women should dress modestly.
3. Reciting the Eid Takbeer
Muslims are encouraged to recite the Takbeer on the way to the prayer:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha illa-llah, wa-llahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa li-llahil hamd.
This glorification of Allah is an expression of gratitude and a reminder of His greatness.
4. Choosing an Open Space for Prayer
Whenever possible, it is preferred to perform the Eid prayer in an open area rather than inside a mosque. The Prophet ﷺ would pray Eid Salah in an open space, as it allows for a larger congregation and symbolizes the unity of the Muslim community.
5. No Nafl (Voluntary) Prayers Before or After Eid Salah
Unlike Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers, there are no Sunnah or Nafl prayers before or after the Eid prayer. The Prophet ﷺ performed only the two rak’ahs of Eid prayer without any additional prayers.
6. Making the Intention (Niyyah)
Just like with other prayers, it is essential to make the niyyah (intention) in the heart before beginning the prayer. If one wishes to verbalize it, they can say:
I intend to pray two rak’ahs of the Eid prayer for Allah, facing the Ka’bah.
How to Perform Eid Prayer
1. Making the Intention (Niyyah)
Before starting the Eid prayer, one must make a sincere intention in the heart to perform the Eid salah for the sake of Allah.
2. First Takbir (Opening Takbir)
The prayer begins with Takbirat al-Ihram, where the Imam says “Allahu Akbar,” and the congregation follows. This is the same opening Takbir as in regular prayers.
3. Additional Takbirs in the First Rakat
Unlike the daily prayers, the Eid namaz how to pray includes additional Takbirs. The Imam says “Allahu Akbar” three times with short pauses in between, and the congregation repeats after him. After completing the Takbirs, the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by another Surah, usually Surah Al-A’la or Surah Qaf, is done.
4. Ruku and Sujood in the First Rakat
After the recitations, the Imam proceeds to Ruku (bowing), then to Sujood (prostration), and completes the first unit (Rakat) of the prayer.
5. Second Rakat and Additional Takbirs
Upon standing for the second Rakat, the Imam recites Surah Al-Fatihah and another Surah, commonly Surah Al-Ghashiyah or Surah Al-Qamar. Before proceeding to Ruku, the Imam calls out three additional Takbirs, which the congregation follows. After completing these Takbirs, the prayer continues as usual with Ruku, Sujood, and then concludes with Tashahhud and Salam.
6. Khutbah (Sermon) After Eid Prayer
After the prayer is completed, the Imam delivers the Eid Khutbah (sermon). Listening to this sermon is recommended, as it includes important messages about the significance of Eid and Islamic teachings.
After the Eid Prayer
1. Listening to the Khutbah (Sermon)
The khutbah (sermon) follows the Eid prayer. While it is not obligatory to listen to it, it is highly recommended. The Imam will deliver a message addressing important Islamic teachings and reminders.
2. Spreading Joy and Giving Charity
Eid is a time of joy and generosity. Muslims are encouraged to:
- Exchange Eid greetings such as Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum (May Allah accept from us and you).
- Visit relatives, neighbors, and friends to strengthen social ties.
- Give charity (sadaqah) to the needy, as it is a means of increasing blessings.
3. Taking a Different Route Home
It is Sunnah to take a different route when returning from the Eid prayer. The Prophet ﷺ would return from the Eid prayer via a different path than the one he took to arrive. This small but significant act has spiritual rewards and serves as a testimony of worship on the Day of Judgment.
Sunnah Acts of Eid Prayer
To enhance the spiritual experience of Eid, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged several Sunnah acts:
- Taking a Ghusl (ritual bath) before the prayer
- Wearing clean, preferably new or best available clothes
- Eating dates before Eid ul-Fitr prayer (Sunnah of the Prophet)
- Using perfume (for men) before heading to the prayer ground
- Walking to the prayer ground if possible
- Reciting Takbir aloud while going to the Eid prayer
- Taking a different route home after the prayer
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Eid Prayer
Many people unknowingly make mistakes when performing the prayer of Eid ul Fitr or Eid al-Adha. Here are some common ones:
- Forgetting the extra Takbirs – These are an essential part of Eid salah and should not be missed.
- Performing the prayer before sunrise – Eid prayer should only be performed after the sun has risen above the horizon.
- Skipping the Khutbah – While the Khutbah is not obligatory, listening to it is highly recommended.
- Not making intention (Niyyah) properly – One should always make a sincere intention before starting the prayer.
- Talking or greeting before the prayer is completed – It is important to maintain focus and complete the entire prayer before engaging in conversations.
What to Do If You Miss Eid Prayer
If someone misses the Eid prayer in congregation, they have two options:
- Pray at home following the same method without a Khutbah.
- Wait until next year if there is no opportunity to pray in congregation, as Eid prayer is not an individual obligation like the five daily prayers.
Eid Prayer at Home: How to Perform It
In some situations, such as health issues or travel restrictions, performing Eid prayer at home is permissible. The procedure remains the same, but no Khutbah is required after the prayer. Families can gather and perform the prayer in a group, ensuring that they maintain the correct sequence of actions.
The Spiritual Benefits of Performing Eid Prayer
Engaging in the prayer of Eid ul Fitr and Eid al-Adha is more than just a ritual. It brings numerous spiritual and social benefits:
- Strengthens faith and gratitude towards Allah
- Encourages unity among Muslims
- Provides an opportunity for self-reflection and repentance
- Marks a fresh start after Ramadan or in the spirit of sacrifice
- Promotes community bonding and a sense of belonging
Sabil Al-Quran provides comprehensive guides and resources to help Muslims worldwide understand how to perform Eid prayer accurately and ensure they follow authentic Islamic teachings.
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Conclusion
The prayer of Eid ul Fitr and Eid al-Adha is a vital aspect of Islamic practice, bringing together communities in worship and gratitude. Understanding how to perform Eid prayer correctly ensures that this beautiful Sunnah is observed in its true spirit. By following the step-by-step guide provided, incorporating Sunnah acts, and avoiding common mistakes, every Muslim can make the most of this blessed occasion.
For more detailed Islamic teachings, visit Sabil Al-Quran, where you can find valuable insights on Eid prayers, daily Salah, and other aspects of faith. May Allah accept our prayers and grant us the blessings of Eid!
FAQS About How to perform Eid prayer:
How Many Takbir Are There in Eid Prayer?
The number of takbirs in the Eid prayer varies based on Islamic traditions:
Hanafi School: Six extra takbirs – Three in the first rak’ah before Surah Al-Fatiha and three in the second rak’ah before bowing (Ruku’).
Shafi’i, Hanbali, and Maliki Schools: Twelve extra takbirs – Seven in the first rak’ah before Surah Al-Fatiha and five in the second rak’ah before Surah Al-Fatiha.
Both methods are valid and accepted in Islam. It is important to follow the practice of your local congregation or Imam.
How to Pray Eid Prayer with 7 Takbeer?
The 7 takbeer Eid prayer follows the Shafi’i and Hanbali traditions. Here’s how you can perform it:
First Rak’ah:
Make Niyyah (intention) for Eid Salah.
Say Allahu Akbar (opening Takbir) and place your hands on your chest.
Say 7 additional takbirs while pausing slightly between each.
Recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by another Surah.
Perform Ruku’ and Sujood as in regular prayers.
Second Rak’ah:
Stand up for the second rak’ah and say 5 additional takbirs before reciting Surah Al-Fatiha.
Recite another Surah (Surah Al-Ghashiyah or Surah Al-Duha is commonly recited).
Complete the prayer as usual.
This method is commonly followed in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other regions that adhere to the Shafi’i and Hanbali traditions.
How to Perform Eid Prayer for Ladies at Home?
Women can perform Eid prayer at home if they are unable to attend the congregation. The procedure is the same as the masjid prayer, but there is no khutbah (sermon) at home.
Step-by-Step Guide for Women’s Eid Prayer at Home:
Make the intention (Niyyah) for Eid prayer.
Start with Takbiratul Ihram (raising hands and saying Allahu Akbar).
Say 6 or 7 additional takbirs (depending on the school of thought).
Recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by another Surah (e.g., Surah Al-A’la).
Perform Ruku’ and Sujood, then stand up for the second rak’ah.
Say 5 additional takbirs before reciting Surah Al-Fatiha.
Recite another Surah (e.g., Surah Al-Ghashiyah).
Complete the prayer with Tashahhud and Tasleem.
This is a simple way for women to pray Eid salah at home while ensuring they fulfill the Sunnah of Eid.
For more guidance on Islamic teachings, Salah, and Quranic learning, visit Sabil Al-Quran, a trusted platform for Islamic education.