Muslims in the UAE encouraged to perform solar eclipse prayer on September 7th

The International Astronomical Centre has announced that the UAE will experience a total lunar eclipse on September 7, marking the first such event in seven years. This cosmic spectacle has prompted the UAE Council for Fatwa and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat in Abu Dhabi to urge Muslims to perform the Eclipse Prayer.

The Eclipse Prayer, traditionally performed in two rakʿahs, is marked by longer Qur'anic recitations, two bowings per rakʿah, and extended supplications. It is a practice that the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) traditionally observed during lunar eclipses.

Scholars encourage believers to combine the eclipse prayer with acts of charity, remembrance of God, and seeking forgiveness. The prayer may be performed in mosques without adhan or iqama, and can be observed at home or any place where prayer is valid.

The Council has explained that the prayer is prescribed only when the eclipse is clearly visible to people, whether partial or full. If the obscuration is so minor that it can be detected only by astronomical instruments, the prayer is not required.

No specific reasons were mentioned in the article for the urging of Muslims to perform the eclipse prayer. However, the advisory committee of the UAE, led by Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, has recommended that the solar eclipse prayer is advisable for both men and women.

The lunar eclipse is expected to begin at 8:27pm, reach its peak at 10:12pm, and end at 11:57pm on September 7. Despite the lack of specific information about the location or time for the performance of the eclipse prayer, Muslims are encouraged to perform the prayer repetitively until the eclipse has ended, disappeared, or until dawn breaks.

This celestial event serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring universe God has created, and an opportunity for Muslims to reflect, pray, and seek His mercy.