Subject to the Decree of Allah, a total eclipse of the moon is expected to be seen in Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday, May 15th, 2022 from approximately 10:27 p.m. to 1:55 a.m.
The time is approximately the same for Trinidad, Barbados, Grenada and all other Caribbean Islands.
The sun and the moon are two of the greatest signs that we can use to recognise the greatness and might of our creator; Allah Ta’āla, he has placed them in a perfect synchronization for the existence of the earth and entire universe.
“Among His signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Do not prostrate yourselves to the sun, or to the moon. And prostrate yourselves to Allah who has created them, if it is Him whom you worship.” [41:37]
On Sunday May 15th, we will – in shaa Allah – be witnessing a spectacular occurrence called the Lunar Eclipse. We know that the reason for the eclipse is to warn and make the people ponder of the power of Allah Ta’ala, and to instil in them an urgency to return to the obedience of Allah, the Mighty the Exalted.
The sun and moon have been rising and setting in a set (routine pattern) probably longer than us humans have been around. Ancient cultures have viewed eclipses as mystical and foretelling certain events. They were worshipped out of fear and sometimes held in high esteem. Even till today there are many evils that take place in conjunction with these events. Science also has its own explanation regarding the phenomenon of the eclipses. However, with these manifestations we, as Muslims, grow closer to Allah Ta’āla at these moments and observe those actions that draw His mercy and closeness.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “The sun and the moon do not eclipse because of the death or life of someone, but they are two signs amongst the Signs of Allah. So, if you see them, offer the Prayer (of eclipse).
What are Muslims supposed to do during a Lunar Eclipse?
In the lifetime of the Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) the sun eclipsed and he went out dragging his clothes till he reached the Mosque. The people gathered around him and he led them and offered two rak`āt. When the sun (eclipse) cleared, he said, “The sun and the moon are two signs amongst the signs of Allah; they do not eclipse because of the death of someone, and so when an eclipse occurs, pray and invoke Allah till the eclipse is over.” It happened that a son of the Prophet (ﷺ) called Ibrahim died on that day and the people were talking about that (saying that the eclipse was caused by his death). (Bukhari)
Although this incident was regarding a solar eclipse the Muhaditheen and Fuqaha have derived the similar practises for a lunar one, they are as follows:
Masā-il (Rulings) pertaining to Ṣalātul Khusoof (Salāh of Lunar eclipse)
- It is Mustaḥab (desirable) to perform Ṣalātul Khusoof.
- Salātul Khusoof is performed individually according to the Hanafi Madhab. [Other Madhāhib do congregation in Jamā’ah for both lunar and solar. However, for the Hanafi Madhab individual Ṣalāh is performed for a lunar eclipse and congregational Ṣalāh for the solar eclipse]
- Ṣalātul Khusoof may be performed in two raka’āt or four raka’āt, with one salām or two salāms respectively.
- It is prayed like any other Nafl Ṣalāh e.g. Tahajjud
- One should engage in ‘Ibādah throughout the eclipse by either performing lengthy Ṣalāh with long Ruku’ and Sajdah, or by making du’ā, or by both Ṣalāh and du’ā.
- One should recite long Surah wherein Allah Ta’āla describes the Day of Qiyāmah.
- There is no Adhān and no Iqāmah
- There is no Khutbah
- Make a lot of du’ā and ask for forgiveness for the times not in Ṣalāh
Voluntary acts other than the prayer
It is narrated that the Prophet (ﷺ) commanded the believers to make as much istighfār and dhikr of Allah in such times of fear. Also, to make du’ā to Allah at such times is from the prescribed actions as well as to give charity. To free a slave and all other such good actions are recommended at such times, and one should not waste such an opportunity to not only fulfil the sunnah but become closer to Allah with that what he loves.
I ask Allah to protect us all from His punishment and anger, and to make us from those who love him and turn to him in repentance.
And Allah, the Exalted Knows Best.
May the Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon His Messenger, and his family.
Abraar Alli
