Eid Prayer and Its Sunnah and Mustahabb Practices

Eid is a day of joy and celebration for Muslims worldwide. Following the Eid prayer, the Imam delivers two sermons (khutbahs), which the congregation listens to attentively. Observing the Sunnah and Mustahabb practices associated with Eid enhances the spiritual and festive essence of the occasion. Below is a list of key Sunnah and Mustahabb practices for Eid:

Using Miswak: Brushing teeth with a miswak is a Sunnah practice.
Taking a Bath (Ghusl): Performing a ritual bath before Eid prayer is Sunnah, purifying both body and soul.
Applying Perfume: Using fragrance is a Sunnah that adds to the festivity of Eid.
Eating Before or After Eid Prayer: For Eid-ul-Fitr, eating something (preferably dates) before heading to the Eidgah is Sunnah, while for Eid-ul-Adha, it is Sunnah to avoid eating until after the prayer.
Walking to the Eidgah: Walking to the Eid prayer ground is recommended, and it is Mustahabb to take one route to the Eidgah and return by a different one.
Reciting Takbir: Reciting the Takbir in a low voice while heading to the Eidgah is Sunnah. The Takbir is: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La Ilaha Illallahu Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Wa Lillahil Hamd”.
Wearing Good Clothes: Wearing clean and beautiful clothes, according to one’s means, is Mustahabb.
Paying Sadaqat-ul-Fitr: For Eid-ul-Fitr, giving Sadaqat-ul-Fitr before the Eid prayer is Sunnah, though it can also be given during Ramadan for convenience.
Displaying Happiness: Showing joy and greeting others with a cheerful demeanor on Eid is Mustahabb.
Exchanging Greetings: Sharing joyful greetings and pleasantries with others is Mustahabb.

Additionally, when meeting a familiar person after a long time, it is Sunnah to embrace once with the right shoulder and recite “Allahumma Zid Mahabbati Lillahi wa Rasulih” (O Allah, increase my love for You and Your Messenger). However, considering embracing as obligatory on Eid is considered a Bid’ah (innovation), though it is permissible otherwise.

By adhering to these Sunnah and Mustahabb practices, Muslims can elevate the joy of Eid while aligning with religious traditions.

References: Fatawa-e-Shami: 1/556-558, Hedaya: 2/71, Bukhari: 1/130, Ibn Majah: 92, Tirmidhi: 2/102, Mahmudiyya: 28/211, Islahi Khutubat: 1/186-187.

AI/MR