What is the Ruling on Visiting Graves on Eid Night?
Visiting graves on the night of Eid is considered an innovation (bid’ah). There is no narration from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that specifically designates the night of Eid or the day of Eid for grave visits. The Prophet (peace be upon him) warned, saying: “Beware of newly introduced matters, for every innovation is a misguidance, and every misguidance leads to the Fire.” This emphasizes that innovations are prohibited and can lead to dire consequences.
What is the Evidence for the Takbirs in Eid Prayer?
The evidence regarding the additional Takbirs in the Eid prayer comes from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who stated: “He raised the Takbir in the Eid prayer twelve times; seven in the first rak’ah and five in the second. He did not pray before it or after it.” This illustrates the correct manner for performing the Takbirs as prescribed by the Prophet.
If the Eid Prayer is Missed, Should It Be Made Up?
It is recommended for those who miss the Eid prayer to make it up either before or after noon on the same day. This is based on the account of Anas who, not being able to attend the prayer in al-Basrah, gathered his family and followers and prayed two units, similar to the regular prayers, including the Takbirs. It is widely understood that “Whatever you catch, pray, and what you miss, make up.” If one catches the prayer after the additional Takbirs or part of them, they should not attempt to make up those lost Takbirs.
What are the Sunnahs When Going for Eid Prayer?
Muslims should observe the following Sunnahs before proceeding to the Eid al-Fitr prayer:
- The first Sunnah is to give the Zakat al-Fitr before the Eid prayer.
- The second is to eat something prior to leaving for the Eid prayer, as they have exited the state of fasting and should partake in food as an act of worship to Allah (Exalted be He), who has commanded them to break their fast.
- The third is to recite the Takbirs, starting at dawn on Eid day until the conclusion of the Eid prayer, according to the majority opinion among scholars.
- The fourth is to take a different route to the prayer and return by another one while greeting others.
- The fifth is to perform the Eid prayer outdoors rather than in the mosques, as is commonly done nowadays.
- The sixth is for Muslims to greet one another and pray for Allah’s acceptance of their deeds.
- The seventh is for family members, including children and spouses, to attend the prayer; even if a woman is menstruating, she should participate without praying but may witness the prayer.
- The eighth is to wear new attire and apply perfume.
What is the Description of the Eid al-Fitr Prayer?
The Eid al-Fitr prayer consists of two units (rak’ahs). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “Friday prayer is two rak’ahs, Eid prayer is two rak’ahs, the prayer during travel is two rak’ahs, all are completed without shortening.” The first rak’ah begins with the Takbir al-Ihram, followed by seven Takbirs, while the second rak’ah includes five Takbirs, excluding the Takbir for transitioning between units.
This method is endorsed by many scholars, and it has not been established that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) raised his hands with the Takbirs of Eid or recited specific supplications between them. Instead, it was customary for him to offer praises and thanks to Allah (Exalted be He) and to maintain a brief pause between each pair of Takbirs.