Salat-Al-Kusuf (Lunar Eclipse Sunnah Prayer)
Venue : ICOI
Date of the event : December 20, 2010, 10:30 pm
On Monday, December 20th, we are expected to witness a full lunar eclipse. During this time, the Prophet (saw) would observe Salat-al-Kusuf followed by a short khutbah in congregation. Performing this sunnah is to remind us all of Allah’s Might and Power over all things such as the motions of the moon and sun. During the time of the Prophet (SAW), when the eclipse was sighted, the Messenger of Allah (SAW) believed it to be a sign of the Last Hour drawing near (“He asketh: When will be this Day of Resurrection? But when sight is confounded. And the moon is eclipsed. And sun and moon are united, On that day man will cry: Whither to flee! Alas! No refuge! Unto thy Lord is the recourse that day.” [75:6-12]). So he quickly began to pray through the eclipse. Many scholars believe Salat-al-Kusuf is an important sunnah, while others argue that it is obligatory, and still others say it is equal to Jummah Prayer in its importance. All, however, agree that it was an act performed by the Prophet (SAW) and is recommended, for all who are physically able, to pray in congregation during this time.
Please join ICOI in performing Salat-Al-Kusuf on Monday, December 20th. The program will begin at 10:30pm with a Qur`an recitation by Sheikh Mohamed Osman, and Salat-Al-Kusuf will begin at 11:40pm followed by a khutbah, Insha’Allah.
