When a lunar eclipse occurs, Muslims are encouraged to turn to Allah in prayer. This guide summarizes Salat ul Khusuf (lunar eclipse prayer) according to the Hanafi madhab.
What Is Salat ul Khusuf? (Lunar Eclipse Prayer in Islam)
Salat ul Khusuf is the prayer performed during a lunar eclipse. It can be offered at home or in the mosque, and in the Hanafi school the sunnah is to pray it individually rather than as a required congregation.
A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon and causing it to darken. During this sign from Allah, the believer responds with prayer and remembrance.
Where to Pray Salat ul Khusuf — Home or Masjid? (Hanafi)
- Permissible locations: Home or mosque—both are valid.
- Best practice (sunnah): Pray it individually.
- Not required: It does not have to be in congregation at the masjid.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Pray Salat ul Khusuf (Hanafi)
Follow this straightforward sequence when you witness a lunar eclipse:
1) Intention and Start
- Make the intention for Salat ul Khusuf.
- Stand for prayer - individually is preferred in the Hanafi school.
2) Pray Two (2x) Rakʿat
- Perform two rakʿat of prayer.
- Pray as you would a voluntary (nafl) prayer.
3) Invoke Allah Until the Eclipse Ends
- Keep invoking Allah - with duʿa, remembrance, and humility - until the eclipse ends.
4) No Khutbah Before This Prayer
- A khutbah (sermon) before the prayer is not part of this practice per the information shown.
Purpose of Salat ul Khusuf in Islam (Hanafi)
The core aim is to remember Allah’s power and submit to His will during extraordinary celestial events. The prayer is not a celebration; it is a moment of awe, humility, and sincere turning to Allah.
Did You Know?
When the Prophet ﷺ faced anything serious, he would rush to Salah - a principle that perfectly fits the eclipse prayer’s spirit.
Salat ul Khusuf (Hanafi) — FAQ
Can women pray Salat ul Khusuf?
Yes. The notion that it’s “not allowed for women” is incorrect. Women may pray it.
Is a masjid congregation required?
No. In the Hanafi madhab, congregation is not required; praying individually is preferred (sunnah). This is in contrast with salat ul-Kusuf (the solar eclipse), where it is sunnah to pray it in congregation.
Is there a khutbah or special sermon?
No. There is no khutbah before the prayer. The focus is on two rakʿat and supplication until the eclipse ends.
Is Salat ul Khusuf Obligatory (Fard) in the Hanafi Madhab?
No, it is a sunnah that preferably should be prayed alone (sunnah).
