Following the Sunnah on Eid ul Adha

On important Islamic occasions like Eid ul Adha, Muslims follow the example and traditions (Sunnah) set by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Doing the same acts that the Prophet performed brings blessings and rewards from God. It strengthens the faith and connection to the teachings of Islam.

Sunnah Acts Before Eid ul Adha

Take a Bath (Ghusl)

One of the key Sunnah acts is to perform ghusl by taking a full bath or shower before Eid prayers. This represents spiritual purification as you prepare for the sacred day. The Prophet always made sure to be physically clean for important acts of worship.

Eat Something Before Prayers

Another Sunnah is to eat something, even if just a few dates, before heading out for the Eid prayers in the morning. The Prophet did this to give himself energy for the day’s activities.

Wear Your Best Outfit

It is recommended to wear your nicest, modest clothing for Eid ul Adha out of respect for the occasion. New or freshly cleaned garments are ideal if you can manage it. The Prophet dressed in his best attire for Eid.

Apply Fragrance

Applying a nice smelling perfume or fragrance is also from the Sunnah. The Prophet liked wearing perfume, especially for prayers and major Islamic events. It adds to the celebratory feeling.

Sunnah Acts During Eid Prayers

Take a Different Route 

When walking to the Eid prayer ground or mosque, take a different route than your usual daily path. And then return home via another route. The Prophet did this to symbolize the different nature of the day.

Perform Eid Prayers

Attending the congregational Eid prayers in the morning is one of the most important Sunnah acts. The Prophet never missed this special community prayer unless he was traveling or ill. Listen to the khutbah (sermon) too.

Recite Takbir

From the dawn prayers until the start of Eid prayers, recite the takbir out loud. This is the Arabic phrase “Allahu Akbar” (God is Great) repeated continuously. The Prophet and his companions did this publicizing of their faith.

Sunnah Acts After Prayers

Sacrifice an Animal

For those who can afford it, sacrificing an animal like a lamb, goat, cow or camel is a Sunnah act rewarded greatly by God. This commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience. The meat is divided in three portions – keeping one third, giving one third to relatives, and giving one third to the poor.

Embrace Family & Friends

After prayers, embrace and greet your family, friends and neighbors with customary Eid greetings and good wishes. This promotes unity in the community, as the Prophet did.

Give Charity & Gifts

If you are able, give charity and gifts to the less fortunate. The Prophet always helped others and did charitable acts, especially on the blessed days of Eid ul Adha.

By following these traditional Sunnah acts, Muslims gain multiple spiritual rewards and stay connected to the beautiful teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Eid ul Adha becomes even more blessed through these simple yet meaningful practices.