Describe the performance of Sala¯t ‘Idul-Fitr.

Answer Details

Meaning: Salatul-'Idul-Fitr is the special congregational prayer offered on the first day of Shawwal to mark the end of the fasting of Ramadan. It consists of two rak'ah and is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah mu'akkadah).

Preparations before the prayer:

• The Muslim performs the ritual bath (ghusl), wears his best clean clothes and applies perfume.
• It is recommended to eat some dates or a light meal before going out, as a sign that the fast is over.
• Zakatul-Fitr should be paid before the prayer.
• The worshippers go out to the praying ground (musalla) or mosque, reciting the takbir: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, la ilaha illa Allah...

Performance of the prayer:

1. There is no adhan and no iqamah for the 'Id prayer.
2. The worshipper makes the intention (niyyah) to pray the two rak'ah of 'Idul-Fitr behind the imam.
3. The imam begins with the opening takbir (Takbiratul-Ihram), then says the opening supplication.
4. In the first rak'ah he makes additional takbirat (about seven, including the opening one, according to a common practice), raising the hands with each.
5. He then recites Suratul-Fatihah followed by another surah, commonly Suratul-A'la, aloud.
6. He completes the first rak'ah with ruku' (bowing) and two sujud (prostrations) as in ordinary prayer.
7. In the second rak'ah he makes additional takbirat (about five before recitation), then recites al-Fatihah and another surah, commonly Suratul-Ghashiyah.
8. He completes the rak'ah with ruku' and sujud, sits for the final tashahhud and ends with the two taslim (salam) to the right and left.

After the prayer: The imam mounts the pulpit and delivers a sermon (khutbah) reminding the people of gratitude, charity, unity and good conduct. The worshippers then greet one another and it is recommended to return home by a different route.

Conclusion: Salatul-'Idul-Fitr is thus a joyful act of worship expressing thanks to Allah for the completion of Ramadan and strengthening the bonds of the Muslim community.