Is It Sunnah to Eat Something Sweet Before Eid Prayer? Here's What You Should Know
Is It Sunnah to Eat Something Sweet Before Eid Prayer? ~ Sunnah in Islam refers to recommended practices that hold great virtues. While not obligatory, following Sunnah can bring rewards and benefits to our lives. One commonly discussed Sunnah is the habit of eating before the Eid prayer, especially consuming sweet foods like dates. Many of us might wonder, is this truly encouraged? Or is it merely a cultural tradition? In Islam, every recommendation has wisdom behind it. Therefore, it is important for us to understand the basis of this practice. By knowing the evidence and explanations, we can be more confident in practicing the Sunnah taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and make our Eid celebration more meaningful.
The habit of eating before the Eid prayer, particularly on Eid al-Fitr, is quite well known. However, some people are unsure whether this also applies to Eid al-Adha. Some even choose not to eat at all before the prayer. So, what is the actual Islamic guidance on this matter?
This article will explore the Sunnah of eating before the Eid prayer based on hadiths and scholars' opinions. We will discuss what the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended, the types of food consumed, and the differences between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in this regard. By understanding this Sunnah, we can perform our worship in a better way.
Let's find out the answer together!
Is It Sunnah to Eat Before the Eid Prayer?
The days of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are special moments for Muslims. Aside from being a time for togetherness and strengthening relationships, these two days also come with recommended Sunnah practices for us to follow. One of the frequently discussed Sunnah practices is eating before leaving for the Eid prayer. However, there is a difference between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in this matter. Some of us might wonder, is there truly a recommendation to eat before the Eid prayer? Does it apply to both Eid celebrations, or only one of them? To answer this question, we need to refer to the hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and how scholars interpret this Sunnah.
Let's take a look at the following hadith:
كَانَ رَسُوْلُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ لَا يَخْرُجُ يَوْمَ الْفِطْرِ حَتَّى يَطْعَمَ وَلاَ يَطْعَمُ يَوْمَ الْأَضْحَى حَتَّى يُصَلِّيَ
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) would not go out to perform the Eid al-Fitr prayer until he had eaten, and he would not eat until he had performed the Eid al-Adha prayer.[1]
The hadith above explains that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would eat before leaving for the Eid al-Fitr prayer. This indicates that eating before the Eid al-Fitr prayer is a recommended Sunnah. Meanwhile, for Eid al-Adha, there is no specific recommendation to eat before the prayer. In fact, many scholars suggest delaying eating until after the prayer and the sacrifice of the animal.
Is It Sunnah to Wear New Clothes on Eid?
This difference is based on the wisdom behind each Eid celebration. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan fasting, so eating before the prayer serves as an expression of gratitude for the blessing of breaking the fast. On the other hand, Eid al-Adha is more associated with the ritual sacrifice of animals, so it is Sunnah to wait until the sacrificial meat is ready to be eaten. Therefore, the Sunnah of eating before prayer applies only to Eid al-Fitr, while for Eid al-Adha, it is more virtuous to delay eating.
From this, we understand that eating before the Eid prayer is not merely a habit but has a strong basis in Islamic teachings. By knowing the differences, we can practice the Sunnah with greater confidence and in accordance with the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
For those who follow this Sunnah on Eid al-Fitr, it is recommended to eat an odd number of dates, such as three, five, or seven. If dates are not available, other food is also permissible. The important thing is to express gratitude by not fasting on this special day.
Is It Sunnah to Perform Ghusl for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?
Meanwhile, for those celebrating Eid al-Adha, delaying eating until after the prayer and sacrifice carries a deeper meaning. It follows the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who would eat only after enjoying the sacrificial meat.
So, if we are wondering whether eating before the Eid prayer is Sunnah, the answer depends on which Eid we are celebrating. For Eid al-Fitr, yes, it is highly recommended. For Eid al-Adha, it is better to wait until after the prayer.
Understanding these Sunnahs makes our worship more meaningful. Besides following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we also appreciate the wisdom behind each recommendation in Islam.
Now, we know when to eat before the Eid prayer and when to delay it.
Hadith on Eating Something Sweet Before Eid Prayer
Eid al-Fitr is always a joyful occasion for Muslims. Besides gathering with family and seeking forgiveness from one another, there are certain Sunnahs recommended before leaving for the Eid prayer. One of them is eating something sweet beforehand. We might wonder, is there any hadith that mentions this recommendation? The answer is yes. In a hadith, it is mentioned that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would always eat a few dates before performing the Eid al-Fitr prayer.
This Sunnah holds a deeper wisdom, as it symbolizes gratitude after completing a full month of fasting during Ramadan.
Is It Sunnah to Say "Eid Mubarak"?
The hadith that serves as the basis for this Sunnah was narrated by Anas bin Malik. Take a look at the following hadith:
كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ لَا يَغْدُو يَوْمَ الفِطْرِ حَتَّى يَأْكُلَ تَمَرَاتٍ، وَيَأْكُلُهُنَّ وِتْرًا
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) did not leave for Eid al-Fitr without eating a few dates, and he would eat them in an odd number.[2]
The hadith above explains that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ate three dates before going to the mosque to perform the Eid prayer. This serves as the basis for Muslims to follow the Prophet's (peace be upon him) practice in welcoming the holiday with gratitude.
Why Dates?
Scholars explain that dates are sweet and provide energy after a month of fasting. Additionally, they are easily digestible and offer health benefits. However, if dates are unavailable, other sweet foods are also permissible. The most important aspect is following the Sunnah of eating before heading to the Eid prayer, as a way of emulating the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Is It Sunnah to Celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?
This opinion is reinforced by Imam Ibn Qudamah in his book Al-Mughni, where he explains that the purpose of this Sunnah is to show that Eid al-Fitr is no longer a day of fasting. Therefore, other sweet foods like honey, fruits, or light snacks can be alternatives if dates are unavailable. The main point is that one should not leave for Eid prayer in a fasting state.
Additionally, Imam An-Nawawi in Al-Majmu' emphasized that this Sunnah applies specifically to Eid al-Fitr. Meanwhile, for Eid al-Adha, it is more virtuous to delay eating until after the prayer and the sacrifice of the animal. This distinction shows that every Sunnah in Islam has unique wisdom, aligned with the nature of the worship being performed.
The Meaning Behind Eating Something Sweet Before the Eid Prayer
The Sunnah of eating something sweet before the Eid al-Fitr prayer has a profound meaning. It is not merely a habit but a way to express gratitude to Allah after completing the fast of Ramadan. By beginning the holiday with something sweet, we are reminded that Eid al-Fitr is a day of victory and joy for Muslims.
Therefore, if we wish to follow this Sunnah, we can start by eating a few dates before heading to the Eid prayer. If dates are unavailable, other sweet foods are allowed. The key is not leaving for prayer on an empty stomach, as this Sunnah is part of how we celebrate Eid by following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
By understanding the hadith and the scholars' opinions regarding the Sunnah of eating before the Eid prayer, we can practice it with greater confidence. May this practice enhance our worship and make the Eid celebration more meaningful!
What About Sweet Foods Other Than Dates?
When Eid al-Fitr arrives, one commonly known Sunnah is eating a few dates before going to the Eid prayer. This is based on a hadith from Anas bin Malik, which states that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) did not leave for the Eid al-Fitr prayer before eating a few dates (Sahih al-Bukhari). But what if someone does not have dates? Is it permissible to replace them with other sweet foods?
This question often arises, especially for those who find it difficult to obtain dates or prefer variety. The Sunnah of eating before the Eid prayer is encouraged, but must it always be dates, or can other sweet foods like honey, fruits, or cakes be used instead?
The Scholars' Explanation
Scholars explain that eating before the Eid al-Fitr prayer is intended to demonstrate that the day is one of breaking the fast, not fasting. Dates are recommended because the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) consumed them, but if dates are unavailable, other sweet foods are permissible. The more important aspect is not attending the prayer while hungry, as Eid al-Fitr is a day of joy and celebration.
Imam An-Nawawi in Al-Majmu' emphasized that the Sunnah is simply to eat before the prayer, and while dates are preferable, other foods are also acceptable. Similarly, Imam Ibn Qudamah in Al-Mughni mentioned that any food can be eaten before the Eid prayer, as the essence of this Sunnah is breaking the fast before the prayer, not the specific type of food.
Alternative Sweet Foods
So, if we do not have dates, there is no need to worry. We can replace them with other sweet foods such as honey, fruits, or light snacks, as long as they are not too heavy. The most important thing is to practice the Sunnah of eating before the Eid prayer as a way to emulate the Prophet's (peace be upon him) tradition.
Many scholars view this Sunnah as flexible, emphasizing its purpose rather than its specific form. Dates have their own virtues, but there is no definitive evidence that prohibits replacing them with other sweet foods. In fact, in regions where dates are scarce, people traditionally eat locally available sweet foods instead.
Additionally, eating something sweet provides energy and prepares the body for activity. Therefore, foods like honey, fruits, or even sweet pastries can be suitable alternatives, as long as they are consumed in moderation. The primary focus should be on maintaining the intention of following this Sunnah as part of the Eid al-Fitr celebration.
In conclusion, there is no strict requirement to eat dates before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. If dates are available, it is best to follow the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). If not, other sweet foods can be chosen. What matters most is to uphold this Sunnah with sincerity and celebrate the holiday with joy.
Sunnah Before and After the Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer is a special moment for Muslims, whether on Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha. In addition to performing the congregational prayer, there are several recommended Sunnah practices before and after the prayer. These Sunnah acts are not just additional rituals but part of perfecting our worship and attaining blessings from Allah.
Some of these Sunnah acts include performing ghusl (ritual purification), wearing the best clothes, and taking a different route when going to and returning from the prayer area. All these practices were directly taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and hold special meanings.
Before performing the Eid prayer, it is recommended to perform ghusl (ritual bathing), as indicated in the hadith below:
كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَغْتَسِلُ يَوْمَ الْفِطْرِ وَيَوْمَ الْأَضْحَى
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to take a ritual bath on the day of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.[3]
Additionally, it is recommended for us to wear our best clothes and apply fragrance, as explained in the following hadith:
أَمَرَنَا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ أَنْ نَلْبَسَ أَجْوَدَ مَا نَجِدُ، وَأَنْ نَتَطَيَّبَ بِأَجْوَدِ مَا نَجِدُ، وَأَنْ نُضَحِّيَ بِأَسْمَنِ مَا نَجِدُ
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) commanded us to wear the best clothes we could find, use the finest fragrance we had, and sacrifice the fattest animal we could afford.[4]
Another Sunnah is to eat before leaving for the Eid al-Fitr prayer, in accordance with the hadith I mentioned earlier (كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ لَا يَغْدُو يَوْمَ الفِطْرِ حَتَّى يَأْكُلَ تَمَرَاتٍ، وَيَأْكُلُهُنَّ وِتْرًا).
For the Eid al-Adha prayer, however, it is recommended to delay eating until after the prayer. This follows the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), as explained in the hadith I previously mentioned (وَلاَ يَطْعَمُ يَوْمَ الْأَضْحَى حَتَّى يُصَلِّيَ). The wisdom behind this is to express gratitude for the blessing of sacrifice that Allah has granted on that day.
When heading to the prayer place, it is recommended to walk if possible. Consider the following hadith:
كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَخْرُجُ إِلَى الْعِيدِ مَاشِيًا وَيَرْجِعُ مَاشِيًا
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) went out to the Eid prayer on foot and returned on foot.[5]
عَنْ عَلِيِّ بْنِ أَبِي طَالِبٍ قَالَ: مِنَ السُّنَّةِ أَنْ يَخْرُجَ إِلَى الْعِيدِ مَاشِيًا، وَأَنْ يَأْكُلَ شَيْئًا قَبْلَ أَنْ يَخْرُجَ
From Ali bin Abi Talib, he said: "It is part of the Sunnah to go out to the Eid prayer on foot and to eat something before leaving (for the Eid al-Fitr prayer)."[6]
Additionally, it is recommended to take a different route when going to and returning from the prayer. This is in accordance with the following hadith:
كَانَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا كَانَ يَوْمُ عِيدٍ خَالَفَ الطَّرِيقَ
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), on the day of Eid, would take a different route when going to and returning from the Eid prayer.[7]
Throughout the journey, it is also recommended to frequently recite takbir. This is in accordance with Allah's words in the Quran:
وَلِتُكْمِلُوا الْعِدَّةَ وَلِتُكَبِّرُوا اللّٰهَ عَلٰى مَا هَدٰىكُمْ وَلَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُوْنَ
And [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.[8]
This takbir begins from the night of Eid until before the Eid prayer starts.
After the Eid prayer, one of the recommended sunnahs is listening to the khutbah. Although it is sunnah, listening to the khutbah can increase knowledge and strengthen the meaning of Eid.
Additionally, we are encouraged to exchange supplications of goodness, as the companions did by saying: تَقَبَّلَ اللَّهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ (May Allah accept our deeds and yours).
One of the well-known narrations is as follows:
كَانَ أَصْحَابُ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا الْتَقَوْا يَوْمَ الْعِيدِ، يَقُولُ بَعْضُهُمْ لِبَعْضٍ: تَقَبَّلَ اللَّهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ
The Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) met on the day of Eid, some of them would say to others: "May Allah accept (our deeds) from us and from you."[9]
For those performing Qurbani, the most virtuous time to slaughter the sacrificial animal is after the Eid al-Adha prayer. This is in accordance with the following hadith:
مَنْ ذَبَحَ قَبْلَ الصَّلَاةِ فَإِنَّمَا يَذْبَحُ لِنَفْسِهِ وَمَنْ ذَبَحَ بَعْدَ الصَّلَاةِ فَقَدْ تَمَّ نُسُكُهُ وَأَصَابَ سُنَّةَ الْمُسْلِمِينَ
Whoever slaughters before the prayer has slaughtered for himself, and whoever slaughters after the prayer has completed his act of worship and followed the Sunnah of the Muslims.[10]
Another Sunnah after the Eid prayer is increasing acts of charity and spreading joy. Eid al-Fitr is a time for giving after fulfilling zakat al-Fitr, while Eid al-Adha is a time to share Qurbani meat with those in need. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that sharing on Eid strengthens brotherhood and brings happiness to others.
Moreover, Eid is also a perfect occasion for strengthening ties of kinship. Visiting family, friends, and neighbors, as well as seeking and granting forgiveness, are part of the recommended Sunnah. Eid al-Fitr symbolizes returning to purity, while Eid al-Adha teaches sacrifice and compassion.
By practicing the Sunnahs before and after the Eid prayer, we not only fulfill the primary act of worship but also perfect it with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). May we be able to observe these Sunnahs with sincerity.
Conclusion: Is It Sunnah to Eat Something Sweet Before the Eid Prayer?
As part of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), eating before the Eid al-Fitr prayer is a recommended Sunnah. This practice is based on the hadith I quoted earlier:
كَانَ رَسُوْلُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ لَا يَغْدُوْ يَوْمَ الْفِطْرِ حَتَّى يَأْكُلَ التَّمْرَاتٍ
This recommendation signifies that fasting is not allowed on Eid and serves as an expression of gratitude for the completion of Ramadan. While dates are preferred, scholars allow other sweet foods if dates are unavailable. However, it remains best to follow the direct Sunnah of the Prophet by prioritizing dates.
This Sunnah also has practical benefits. Dates provide a quick source of energy after a month of fasting, helping to restore strength before performing the Eid prayer. Additionally, starting Eid with something sweet symbolizes joy and celebration. Scholars explain that the essence of this Sunnah is to eat before the prayer, marking the transition from Ramadan to Shawwal. Thus, even if dates are not available, it is still recommended to eat something before heading to the Eid al-Fitr prayer, preferably something sweet and light.
Reviving this Sunnah is a way of expressing our love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Although it may seem like a small act, practicing even minor Sunnahs demonstrates our sincerity in following his example. Eating before the Eid prayer is not just a habit; it is an act of obedience to Islamic teachings filled with wisdom. Every Sunnah we practice adds to our rewards and proves that we are following the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in all aspects of life, including how we celebrate Eid.
So, let's make it a habit to eat something before heading to the Eid al-Fitr prayer, especially dates if available. This is not just about following tradition but about practicing a Sunnah taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). By doing so, we can attain blessings, earn rewards, and make our Eid al-Fitr experience more meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Sunnah of eating something sweet before the Eid prayer, along with their answers:
Is it really Sunnah to eat something sweet before the Eid prayer?
Yes, specifically for Eid al-Fitr, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended eating an odd number of dates before leaving for prayer.
Does it have to be dates, or can other sweet foods be eaten?
The Sunnah is to eat dates, but if they are unavailable, other sweet foods are permissible.
What about Eid al-Adha? Is it also Sunnah to eat before the prayer?
No, Eid al-Adha is different. The Sunnah is to delay eating until after the prayer and to consume the Qurbani meat.
Is there a hadith that mentions eating before the Eid prayer?
Yes, a hadith from Anas bin Malik states that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did not go to the Eid al-Fitr prayer without eating a few dates. (Reported by Bukhari).
Why is eating something sweet before the Eid al-Fitr prayer a Sunnah?
Eating before the prayer signifies that it is a day of breaking the fast, as Ramadan has just ended.
How many dates are recommended to eat?
The Sunnah is to eat an odd number, such as one, three, or five dates.
What if someone does not like sweet foods?
That is not an issue. This Sunnah is recommended but not obligatory, so it can be omitted if necessary.
Footnotes
[1] Muhammad bin Isa at-Tirmidhi, Sunan at-Tirmidhi, Number 542, and Ahmad bin Hanbal, Al-Musnad, Number 22983.
[2] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Sahih al-Bukhari, 953.
[3] Abu Abdillah Muhammad bin Yazid bin Abdullah bin Majah al-Quzwaini (Ibn Majah), Sunan Ibn Majah, Number 1315.
[4] Abul-Qasim Sulaiman bin Ahmad al-Lakhmiy ath-Thabrani, al-Mu'jam al-Kabir, 2756.
[5] Abu Abdillah Muhammad bin Yazid bin Abdullah bin Majah al-Quzwaini (Ibn Majah), Sunan Ibn Majah, Number 1077.
[6] Muhammad bin Isa at-Tirmidhi, Sunan at-Tirmidhi, Number 530.
[7] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Sahih al-Bukhari, 986.
[8] Al-Baqarah (2): 185.
[9] Ibnu Hajar al-Asqalani, Fathu al-Bari, 2/3517.
[10] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Sahih al-Bukhari, 5556, and Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 1961.
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