Eid al-Fitr Prayer, Khutbah & Sunnahs Guide
Sunnahs and Etiquettes of Eid Day
Eid is a day of reward and joy for Muslims after completing the fast of Ramadan. There are several recommended Sunnahs a Muslim should observe:
- Ghusl and Perfume: It is recommended to take a bath, wear one's best clothes, and apply perfume (for men) before heading to the prayer area.
- Eating before leaving: It is Sunnah to eat an odd number of dates (three or five) before going to the Eid al-Fitr prayer, unlike Eid al-Adha where one fasts until returning from prayer.
- Takbir: Starts from sunset on the last day of Ramadan and lasts until the Eid prayer. The famous formula: "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahi Al-hamd".
- Taking a different route: It is recommended to go to the prayer area taking one route and return via another, so both paths bear witness on the Day of Judgment.
- Greetings: It is highly encouraged to exchange greetings like "Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum" (May Allah accept from us and you) and "Eid Mubarak".
How to Perform the Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer consists of two Rak'ahs without Adhan or Iqamah. It can be prayed in the Musalla (which is the Sunnah) or at home if necessary, individually or in a congregation.
First Rak'ah:
Say the opening Takbir (Takbirat Al-Ihram), recite the opening supplication, then say 7 additional Takbirs (raising hands with each), then recite Al-Fatihah and a Surah (preferably Al-A'la or Qaf).
Second Rak'ah:
Stand up saying Takbir, then say 5 additional Takbirs (excluding the Takbir of rising), then recite Al-Fatihah and a Surah (preferably Al-Ghashiyah or Al-Qamar), then bow and prostrate as usual and complete the prayer.
Summary of the Eid Khutbah (Simplified)
The sermon after the Eid prayer is an emphasized Sunnah. If praying in a congregation at home or small gatherings, one person can deliver a simplified sermon:
- Open with praising Allah, glorifying Him, and abundant Takbir.
- Remind the attendees of the blessing of completing the fast and night prayers, and ask Allah for acceptance.
- Emphasize continuing good deeds after Ramadan (like fasting the six days of Shawwal).
- Encourage maintaining family ties, forgiveness, charity, and solidarity among Muslims.
- Conclude with supplications for the Muslim Ummah for mercy, relief, and acceptance.
