Saudi Arabia sets date for lunar eclipse prayer

Arab Weather - The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque announced that the eclipse prayer will be held tomorrow, Sunday, at 9 pm at the Grand Mosque.

The Presidency indicated that Sheikh Badr Al-Turki will lead the prayers during this prayer, which commemorates a noble prophetic tradition related to cosmic phenomena such as solar and lunar eclipses.

The eclipse prayer is a confirmed Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). It consists of two rak'ahs performed differently from regular prayer. In each rak'ah, the imam recites two long recitations, along with two bowings and two prostrations. In the first rak'ah, the recitation and bowing are longer, while in the second rak'ah, they are shorter. It is recommended that the imam prolong his recitation and humility to reflect the grandeur of the cosmic scene. He then concludes the prayer with the tashahhud and the salutation.

This prayer is performed in congregation or individually, in mosques or homes, as a demonstration of submission to God Almighty and a reminder of His greatness and power. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “The sun and the moon are two signs among the signs of God. They do not eclipse for the death or life of anyone. So when you see that, then supplicate to God and pray until what is afflicting you is removed.”