The Sunnahs of Eid: How to Celebrate According to the Prophetic Way
Eid in Islam is a magnificent ritual that fills the hearts of believers with joy after completing major acts of worship. Since Eid is a form of worship itself, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ established a methodology of Sunnahs that increase the blessings of these days.
The Importance of Reviving Eid Sunnahs
Following the Sunnah during Eid is not merely about tradition; it is an act of devotion. Allah says: “And whoever honors the symbols of Allah – indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.” Reviving these practices connects a Muslim to their identity and transforms social habits into rewarded acts of worship.
I. Sunnahs of Eid Eve and Preparation
The celebration begins from the sunset of the night before Eid. Here are the most recommended acts:
1. The Takbeer (The Anthem of Eid)
Takbeer is a vital Sunnah often neglected in public.
- Eid Al-Fitr: Starts from the sunset of the last day of Ramadan until the Eid prayer begins.
- Eid Al-Adha: Extends from the dawn of Arafah until the afternoon of the last day of Tashreeq.
- The Formula: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahi al-hamd.”
2. Ghusl (Ritual Bath) and Perfume
It is a confirmed Sunnah to perform Ghusl before heading to the prayer, as the Companions did. Men should wear their best perfume, while women should head out with modesty, avoiding flashy adornments or strong scents in public gatherings.
3. Wearing Best Clothes
Islam encourages looking our best on Eid. The Prophet ﷺ had a specific cloak (Jubbah) for Eids and Fridays. It is recommended for a Muslim to wear their finest clothes without extravagance.
II. Sunnahs on the Morning of Eid
There is a distinct difference between the two Eids regarding food:
1. Eating Dates (Eid Al-Fitr)
It is Sunnah to eat an odd number of dates (3, 5, or 7) before leaving for the Eid Al-Fitr prayer to signify the end of fasting.
2. Abstaining from Food (Eid Al-Adha)
In Eid Al-Adha, the Sunnah is to refrain from eating until after the prayer, so that the first thing one eats is from the Udhiyah (sacrifice).
III. Etiquette of the Prayer Ground (Musalla)
Eid prayer is the largest gathering of the community and has a specific Prophetic protocol:
- Walking to Prayer: It is recommended to walk to the Musalla if one is able.
- Changing Routes: A beautiful Sunnah is to go by one path and return by another. This is to spread greetings to more people and allow the Earth to bear witness to your obedience.
- Inclusivity: The Prophet ﷺ commanded everyone—men, women, and children—to come out and witness the goodness and the supplications of the Muslims.
IV. The Method of Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer consists of two units (Rak’ahs) without Adhan or Iqamah:
- First Rak’ah: Starts with 7 Takbeers (excluding the opening Takbeer).
- Second Rak’ah: Starts with 5 Takbeers (excluding the Takbeer for standing up). It is recommended to recite Surah Al-A’la or Qaf in the first, and Al-Ghashiyah or Al-Qamar in the second.
V. Congratulations and Social Etiquette
Eid is incomplete without “Silat al-Rahim” (maintaining family ties):
- Greeting: The Companions used to say: “Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum” (May Allah accept from us and from you).
- Family Visits: Eid is a golden opportunity to end disputes and visit relatives.
- Bringing Joy: Providing gifts (Eidiya) and joy to children and family is a virtuous act.
VI. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Restricting Eid to Graves: Eid is a day of joy; while visiting graves is permissible, making it an exclusive mournful ritual on Eid contradicts the spirit of the Sunnah.
- Extravagance: Celebration should not lead to wasting money or resources excessively.
- Neglecting the Poor: Remember to pay Zakat al-Fitr before the prayer to ensure everyone can celebrate.
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