In the Name of Allah, the Infinitely Compassionate, the Most Merciful.

Lunar Eclipse & Salat al-Ayaat

MARCH 13-14, 2025

Assalam Alaykum,

A total lunar eclipse will be visible across North America on the night of Thursday, March 13, into the early hours of Friday, March 14, 2025. During this time, Salat al-Ayaat (the "Prayer for Divine Signs") becomes obligatory (wajib). The prayer can be performed anytime between 1:10 AM and 3:30 AM.

Salat al-Ayaat (The Prayer of Divine Signs)

Salat al-Ayaat is an obligatory (wajib) prayer during a solar or lunar eclipse. It must be performed even if the eclipse is partial and does not cause fear.

The prayer time begins at the start of the eclipse and lasts until it ends. However, it is recommended not to delay the prayer until the eclipse starts reversing, though completing the prayer at that time remains valid.

How to Perform the Long Version of Salat al-Ayaat

1. Make the intention (Niyyah) to offer "Salat al-Ayaat."

2. Say Takbir: "Allahu Akbar."

3. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by any complete Surah, then perform one ruku' (bowing).

4. Stand up again and repeat Step 3 five times (each time includes Al-Fatiha, another Surah, and a ruku).

5. After the fifth ruku', go into two sujud (prostrations).

6. Stand up for the second cycle and repeat Steps 35.

7. After the final two sujud, complete the prayer with Tashahud and Salaam.

How to Perform the Short Version of Salat al-Ayaat

1. Make the intention (Niyyah) to offer "Salat al-Ayaat."

2. Say Takbir: "Allahu Akbar."

3. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha, then recite a portion of another Surah (at least one verse), and perform one ruku' (bowing).

4. Stand up again and recite the next portion of the same Surah (without repeating Al-Fatiha), then perform another ruku'.

5. Repeat Step 4 until you have completed five ruku', ensuring that the Surah is fully recited by the fifth ruku'. (Surahs like Al-Qadr or Al-Falaq are recommended, as they divide easily into five parts.)

6. After the fifth ruku', perform two sujud (prostrations).

7. Stand up for the second cycle and repeat Steps 36.

8. After completing the final two sujud, recite Tashahhud and Salaam to conclude the prayer.

Please Note:

Women in a state of hayd (menstrual bleeding) are exempt from performing Salat al-Ayaat and do not need to make it up later.

Click here for more information on Salat al-Ayaat.

Jazakum Allah Khairan -

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