For most Muslims, this upcoming Eid will be unlike any other. Usually, worshippers gather in packed mosques on the first day of Eid to offer early morning prayers, this year we will have to do them at home to protect ourselves and others from the <a href="https://www.thenational.ae/uae/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>. Wait? What did you say? Do the Eid prayer at home? Indeed, according to leading Islamic scholars from both the UAE and abroad, offering the Eid prayer at home this year is not only permissible, but strongly encouraged to protect us from harm. That said, there are minor differences between conducting Eid prayers at home and the mosque. Here is a step by step guide on what to do. The Eid prayer is to be conducted about 15 minutes after sunrise. If you are living alone, you can do it individually. If you are living with family, then an adult male member should lead the prayer. If there are no adult males available, then an adult female can also lead the prayer. Remember, the communal prayer at home is only limited to direct family members who live there. Be responsible and do not invite anyone else over. The prayer is similar to the dawn Fajr prayer in that it consists of two units, known as rakats. When it comes to the first rakat, begin by raising your spread hands to your ears and give seven takbeers of Allahu Akbar before reciting Surah Al Fatiha and another surah of your choice. After this, complete the rakat in the normal method by bowing down in rukoo and prostrating in sujood. Begin by giving five takbeers of Allahu Akbar followed by, once again, Surah Al Fatiha and another surah of your choice, followed by rukoo and sujood. That’s it. There is no need to provide an Eid sermon at home. Once the Eid prayer is done, it's time to celebrate. If you are home alone, treat yourself to your favourite breakfast and Zoom your family and friends. If you are with your family, wish each other well and exchange gifts, but please ensure your presents are not a contagion risk. Remember, the best gift you can give someone this Eid, is their health. So be responsible and stay home. Eid Mubarak everyone.
