The sun and moon are two great signs from Allah. In the Qur’an and Sunnah, they are not just celestial bodies but reminders of Allah’s power, precision, and mercy. Their movements mark time, guide people, and serve as signs for reflection. Among the most awe-inspiring phenomena is the eclipse — whether solar or lunar — and Islam teaches us a specific act of worship at these times: Salat al-Kusuf (Eclipse Prayer).
In this article, we’ll explore the ruling, wisdom, method, and etiquette of eclipse prayer so Muslims everywhere can understand and apply this Sunnah when witnessing such events.
Eclipses: Divine Signs, Not Omens
In pre-Islamic times, eclipses were linked to funerals or births of prominent individuals. The Prophet ﷺ firmly dispelled these notions:
“The sun and the moon are two of the signs of Allah, and they do not eclipse because of life or death of anyone. If you see them, hasten to remember Allah and pray.”
These cosmic disturbances are meant to instill awe and spiritual urgency:
“Eclipses are signs from Allah by means of which Allah makes His slaves afraid … to warn, and to make them afraid (of destruction)”
Is Salat al-Kusūf Sunnah or Fard?
Salat al-Kusūf (and Khusūf) is Sunnah Mu‘akkadah, an emphasized prophetic tradition that many scholars liken in importance to Jumu‘ah prayer. The Prophet ﷺ himself performed them, and he instructed the community to gather and pray during an eclipse. A minority—like Imam Abu Hanifah—consider it obligatory.
How Was Salat al-Kusuf Legislated?
The practice of eclipse prayer was legislated through direct instruction and demonstration of the Prophet ﷺ. Reports in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim describe how he gathered the people, prayed in congregation, and gave a sermon reminding them of Allah’s might.
Divine Wisdom Behind the Occurrence of Eclipses
- Reminder of Allah’s Power: They show Allah’s control over the universe.
- Call to Reflection: To remember the fleeting nature of life and the reality of the Hereafter.
- Test of Faith: To see if believers respond with worship, humility, and turning back to Allah.
Thus, eclipses are not random events but moments of deep spiritual reflection.
The Time for Salat al-Kusuf
Salat al-Kusuf is prayed from the beginning of the eclipse until it ends. Once the eclipse is over, the prayer is no longer valid.
How to Perform Salat al-Kusūf (Eclipse Prayer)
Salat al-Kusūf (solar eclipse prayer) and Salat al-Khusūf (lunar eclipse prayer) are among the most beautiful Sunnah prayers taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Unlike regular prayers, they have a unique structure that reflects the awe and solemnity of witnessing an eclipse.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Intention (Niyyah)
- Make the intention in your heart: “I am praying two rak‘ahs of Salat al-Kusūf for the sake of Allah.”
- No adhan (call to prayer) or iqāmah is given.
- First Rak‘ah
- Takbir (Allahu Akbar): Begin as in any prayer.
- Recitation (Qirā’ah): Recite Al-Fātiḥah and a long surah (such as Al-Baqarah, Āl-‘Imran, or similar length).
- First Rukū‘ (Bowing): Perform a long rukū‘, staying longer than usual, glorifying Allah.
- Standing Again (Qiyām): Rise and recite Al-Fātiḥah and another long surah.
- Second Rukū‘ (Bowing): Perform another long rukū‘, though slightly shorter than the first.
- Sujūd: Go down for two long sujūds, lengthening your prostrations.
- Second Rak‘ah
- Repeat the same steps:
- Recite Al-Fātiḥah and a long surah.
- Perform a long rukū‘.
- Stand, recite again, then bow a second time.
- Perform two sujūds with humility and awe.
- Repeat the same steps:
- Tashahhud & Taslīm
- Sit for tashahhud as in regular prayer.
- End with taslīm (salām to the right and left).
Key Differences from Regular Prayer
- Two rukū‘s in each rak‘ah (instead of one).
- Long recitations, bowings, and prostrations to reflect awe and submission.
- No adhan or iqāmah — the prayer is started immediately.
- Best performed in congregation, led by an imam.
After the Prayer
- The imam should deliver a khutbah (sermon) reminding people of Allah’s greatness, urging them to seek forgiveness, give charity, and make du‘a.
- The congregation is encouraged to stay engaged in dhikr, du‘a, and sadaqah until the eclipse ends.
Can You Pray Salat al-Kusuf in Congregation?
Yes, it is Sunnah to perform Salat al-Kusuf in congregation, led by an imam, just as the Prophet ﷺ did. However, it may also be prayed individually.
Should the Imam Give Khutbah After Salat al-Kusuf?
Yes. After the eclipse prayer, the Prophet ﷺ delivered a khutbah (sermon) reminding people about Allah’s greatness, the nearness of the Hereafter, and encouraging charity, du‘a, and seeking forgiveness.
Should You Repeat Salat al-Kusuf if the Eclipse Does Not End?
No. The prayer is performed only once during the eclipse. After completing it, one should remain engaged in dhikr (remembrance), du‘a, and sadaqah until the eclipse ends.
FAQ About Eclipse Prayer
1. What is the difference between Salat al-Kusuf and Salat al-Khusuf?
- Kusuf refers to the solar eclipse prayer, while Khusuf refers to the lunar eclipse prayer. Both are performed in the same way.
2. Is the eclipse prayer obligatory?
- It is not fard, but a strongly emphasized Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah).
3. Can women also pray Salat al-Kusuf?
- Yes, women can attend the congregation or pray at home individually.
4. What should we do if we miss the eclipse prayer?
- If the eclipse ends before you pray, the time has passed, and the prayer cannot be made up. Instead, engage in dhikr and du‘a.
Conclusion
Eclipses are not just rare cosmic events — they are reminders from Allah for believers to turn to Him in humility, prayer, and reflection. The Prophet ﷺ guided us to respond with Salat al-Kusuf, dhikr, du‘a, charity, and khutbahs that awaken our hearts.
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