Eight Recommended Sunnahs Before and After Performing the Eid al-Adha Prayer
Eid al-Adha is one of the most significant religious celebrations in the Islamic calendar, observed by millions of Muslims around the world. It marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God’s command. Eid al-Adha is a time of celebration, gratitude, and spiritual reflection, as well as an opportunity to engage in various religious practices that enhance one’s connection to faith.
While the act of performing the Eid prayer is the central ritual of the day, Islamic tradition encourages certain Sunnah practices before and after the prayer. These practices are rooted in the teachings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who set an example for Muslims on how to observe the day with devotion and piety. Among these practices, there are eight specific Sunnahs that are recommended before and after the Eid al-Adha prayer, which help Muslims elevate the spiritual significance of the occasion.
1. Taking a Ghusl (Ritual Bath) Before the Eid Prayer
A Sunnah that is highly recommended before the Eid al-Adha prayer is taking a ghusl, or ritual bath. This act is not obligatory but is considered a means of purifying oneself physically and spiritually. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is known to have taken a bath on the day of Eid, and it is reported that he encouraged others to do the same. The ghusl before Eid serves as a way to cleanse oneself in preparation for the day’s acts of worship, symbolizing spiritual renewal and purity.
2. Wearing the Best Clothes
On the day of Eid, Muslims are encouraged to wear their finest clothes. This act reflects the joy and gratitude for the blessings of life, and wearing beautiful attire is a way to honor the occasion. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have worn his best clothes on Eid, often donning new or specially prepared garments. This Sunnah highlights the importance of presenting oneself with dignity and respect for the special nature of the day.
3. Eating Before the Eid Prayer (for Eid al-Fitr, Not Eid al-Adha)
While this Sunnah is specific to Eid al-Fitr, it is often mistakenly applied to Eid al-Adha. For Eid al-Fitr, it is recommended to eat something, preferably dates, before going to the prayer ground. However, on Eid al-Adha, there is no requirement to eat before the prayer. Instead, Muslims generally wait until after the prayer to partake in the sacrificial meat, which is one of the key acts of the day. Although this distinction is important, the principle of eating to mark the beginning of the celebration remains a prominent feature of Eid al-Fitr.
4. Saying the Takbir (Allahu Akbar) on the Way to the Eid Prayer
One of the most spiritually uplifting Sunnahs before the Eid prayer is to say the Takbir aloud on the way to the prayer grounds. The Takbir is the declaration “Allahu Akbar” (“God is the Greatest”), and its recitation reflects the Muslim’s acknowledgment of God’s majesty. The Takbir is not only an expression of joy and reverence but also serves to unite the community in a collective affirmation of faith. It is highly recommended to say the Takbir during the days of Eid, from the night before Eid until the prayer itself. This act is part of the larger celebration of God’s greatness and is a Sunnah that fosters communal solidarity.
5. Walking to the Eid Prayer (If Possible)
Another Sunnah before the Eid prayer is to walk to the mosque or prayer ground, rather than riding or using transportation, if it is feasible. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged walking to the Eid prayer grounds as it serves to add to the spiritual and physical significance of the day. Walking also offers the opportunity to reflect upon the occasion and immerse oneself in the atmosphere of joy and festivity. For those who are able, walking to the prayer is a recommended practice that carries both spiritual and physical benefits.
6. Performing the Eid Prayer in a Congregation
Eid prayers are highly recommended to be performed in a congregation, rather than individually. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of the Eid prayer as a communal act of worship that brings together Muslims from various walks of life. Performing the prayer in congregation allows Muslims to share in the collective joy of Eid, strengthens community bonds, and enhances the spiritual rewards of the prayer. This Sunnah reflects the significance of unity and collective worship in Islam.
7. Offering the Sacrifice (Qurbani) After the Prayer
After performing the Eid al-Adha prayer, it is a Sunnah to offer the animal sacrifice (Qurbani). The act of sacrifice is a symbolic reenactment of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God and his willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate, symbolizing charity, generosity, and compassion. The timing of the sacrifice should occur after the Eid prayer and before sunset on the same day. Though the sacrifice is not obligatory for every Muslim, it remains a highly recommended act for those who are able to afford it.
8. Visiting Family, Relatives, and Neighbors
Eid al-Adha is a time for fostering relationships and expressing gratitude for one’s loved ones. One of the recommended Sunnahs after the Eid prayer is to visit family, relatives, and neighbors, especially those who may be distant or in need of support. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stressed the importance of maintaining family ties and strengthening relationships within the community. On Eid, this act is seen as a way to share the blessings of the day, spread joy, and strengthen the social fabric of society.
Conclusion
Eid al-Adha is a time of immense spiritual significance and joy for Muslims around the world. Beyond the central acts of worship, there are numerous Sunnahs that help elevate the day’s meaning and strengthen one’s connection to God and the broader Muslim community. By adhering to these practices, Muslims not only follow the example set by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also ensure that the celebration remains a deeply spiritual experience. Whether through taking a ritual bath, wearing the best clothes, or engaging in acts of charity, the Sunnahs before and after the Eid prayer serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, community, and devotion on this sacred day.