Is It Sunnah to Perform Ghusl for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha? A Complete Islamic Guide
Is It Sunnah to Perform Ghusl for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha? ~ Every time Eid al-Fitr arrives, there are many Sunnah practices we can observe to welcome this day of victory in the best way possible. One of them is ghusl, or the recommended ritual bath, before leaving for the Eid prayer. I often hear questions such as, "Is Ghusl for Eid really recommended?" or "What is its ruling in Islam?" In this article, I will discuss Ghusl for Eid, including the supporting evidence, scholarly opinions, and its benefits. By understanding this, we can better observe the Sunnah exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).
Many of us may assume that bathing before the Eid prayer is merely a habit without strong Islamic foundations. However, there is evidence that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companions also performed ghusl before going to the Eid prayer. Therefore, understanding the ruling and virtues of this bath will help us appreciate the Sunnah more.
Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is not just about cleanliness; it is also part of preparing for a day filled with joy. In Islam, cleanliness is highly emphasized, especially on a special occasion like Eid al-Fitr. Naturally, we want to be clean and fresh when meeting family and friends, as well as when performing acts of worship. Additionally, this bath serves as a form of respect for the significant moment following a full month of fasting.
In this article, I will explain whether ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is considered Sunnah Mu'akkadah (highly recommended Sunnah) or just a general Sunnah. We will also examine the hadiths that form the basis of this practice and the opinions of Islamic scholars. So, let's dive deeper into the discussion!
Understanding Ghusl in Islam
In Islam, maintaining cleanliness is an essential part of daily life. One of the purification practices taught in Islam is ghusl, which is a major ritual bath performed under specific circumstances. Ghusl is not merely about wetting the body; it follows a prescribed method taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Every Muslim needs to understand when ghusl is obligatory and how to perform it correctly. In Islamic teachings, ghusl plays a crucial role in ensuring one's purity before engaging in certain acts of worship, such as prayer. Therefore, let's explore ghusl in more depth—when it is required, the evidence supporting it, and how to apply it properly in daily life.
Is It Sunnah to Eat Something Sweet Before Eid Prayer?
Linguistically, ghusl means bathing or washing the entire body with water. In Islamic terminology, ghusl is a major ritual bath required in specific situations to remove major impurity. The process involves making an intention (niyyah) and ensuring that the entire body is washed with water.
There are several conditions in which ghusl becomes obligatory. One of them is after marital relations, regardless of ejaculation. Additionally, women are required to perform ghusl after menstruation and postpartum bleeding. A deceased person must also be washed before being shrouded, except in the case of a martyr who dies on the battlefield.
Allah says in the Qur'an:
وَاِنْ كُنْتُمْ جُنُبًا فَاطَّهَّرُوْاۗ
And if you are in a state of janabah, then purify yourselves.[1]
The hadith narrated by Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) also mentions that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) would always perform ghusl after janabah before engaging in acts of worship. Take a look at the following hadith!
كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا اغْتَسَلَ مِنَ الْجَنَابَةِ غَسَلَ يَدَيْهِ، ثُمَّ تَوَضَّأَ وُضُوءَهُ لِلصَّلَاةِ، ثُمَّ اغْتَسَلَ، ثُمَّ يُخَلِّلُ بِيَدِهِ شَعَرَهُ حَتَّى إِذَا ظَنَّ أَنَّهُ قَدْ أَرْوَى بَشَرَتَهُ أَفَاضَ عَلَيْهِ الْمَاءَ ثَلَاثَ مَرَّاتٍ، ثُمَّ غَسَلَ سَائِرَ جَسَدِهِ
Whenever the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) performed ghusl after janabah, he would start by washing his hands, then perform ablution as he did for prayer. After that, he would perform ghusl, running his fingers through his hair until he felt that the water had reached his scalp. Then, he would pour water over his head three times and finally wash his entire body.[2]
Apart from the obligatory ghusl, there are also recommended instances where ghusl is encouraged. For example, before performing the Friday prayer, before the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha prayers, and after bathing a deceased person. Ghusl is also recommended for someone who has newly embraced Islam.
Is It Sunnah to Wear New Clothes on Eid?
Performing ghusl correctly removes major impurity and restores a person's state of purity. By understanding the significance of ghusl, we can maintain better hygiene before engaging in worship.
Observing ghusl according to Islamic teachings is not difficult. What matters is having the correct intention, following the prescribed method, and ensuring that water reaches the entire body without leaving any part dry.
By understanding ghusl, we can better prepare ourselves for worship with a pure body and a clean heart.
The Sunnah of Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha)
Eid is a special occasion for Muslims. Aside from celebrating victory after a month of fasting, we are also encouraged to maintain personal cleanliness before performing the Eid prayer. One of the Sunnah practices taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) is performing ghusl before heading to the Eid prayer ground. Although it is not obligatory, this ghusl is part of our preparation for welcoming a blessed day. With a clean and refreshed body, we can engage in worship more comfortably and with greater enthusiasm, while also showing respect for this joyous occasion.
Islamic scholars unanimously agree that performing ghusl before the Eid prayer, whether Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, is Sunnah. The evidence supporting this Sunnah is found in the following hadith:
كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَغْتَسِلُ يَوْمَ الْفِطْرِ وَيَوْمَ الْأَضْحَى
The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform ghusl on the day of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.[3]
This hadith indicates that performing ghusl on Eid day is recommended as a form of cleanliness and respect for this significant occasion in Islam.
Is It Sunnah to Say "Eid Mubarak"?
Although ghusl is Sunnah, it is not a requirement for the validity of the Eid prayer. If someone does not perform it, their prayer remains valid. However, since it is a recommended Sunnah, it is better to observe it to gain additional reward.
The best time to perform ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is before leaving for the Eid prayer. Scholars mention that it should ideally be performed after Fajr so that the freshness lasts until prayer time. If performed before Fajr, it is still valid but less preferable.
Some scholars also mention that ghusl can be combined with a ritual bath (janabah) if a person is in a state of major impurity. A single bath with the intention of purification and observing the Sunnah of Eid ghusl suffices.
In his book Al-Majmu', Imam Nawawi explains that performing ghusl on Eid is a practice recommended by the majority of scholars. This shows that the Sunnah has a strong foundation in Islamic teachings and was a common practice among the Companions and the generations that followed.
Apart from ghusl, it is also recommended to wear the best clothing, apply fragrance, and use a siwak before heading to the Eid prayer. These practices ensure that we arrive in a clean, fragrant, and presentable state.
Take a look at the hadith below:
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 and blessings 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]
Maintaining cleanliness is an essential teaching in Islam. By performing ghusl on Eid day, we are not only following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) but also expressing gratitude for the blessings Allah has given us after a month of fasting.
Is It Sunnah to Celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?
Therefore, although ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is not obligatory, performing it enhances our preparation for celebrating this day of victory. Let us make it a habit to observe this Sunnah so that our worship becomes completer and more filled with blessings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha)
Eid al-Fitr is a day of victory after a month of fasting. To welcome this special occasion, it is recommended to perform ghusl before the Eid prayer. This ritual bath helps us arrive at the prayer place in a state of cleanliness and freshness. The method of performing it is simple and not much different from ghusl for janabah (ritual purification after major impurity). However, there are some steps to follow to ensure that ghusl is performed correctly. Below is a step-by-step guide to performing ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) according to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The ghusl process begins with the intention in the heart, followed by washing both hands, cleaning the private parts, performing wudu as done before prayer, and then pouring water over the entire body, starting from the head to the feet.
Take a look at the hadith below:
عَنْ مَيْمُونَةَ قَالَتْ: صَبَبْتُ لِلنَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ مَاءً لِلْغُسْلِ، فَغَسَلَ يَدَيْهِ مَرَّتَيْنِ أَوْ ثَلَاثًا، ثُمَّ أَدْخَلَ يَدَهُ فِي الْإِنَاءِ، ثُمَّ أَفْرَغَ عَلَى فَرْجِهِ وَغَسَلَهُ بِيَدِهِ، ثُمَّ دَلَكَ بِهَا الْحَائِطَ، ثُمَّ تَوَضَّأَ وُضُوءَهُ لِلصَّلَاةِ، ثُمَّ أَفَاضَ عَلَى جَسَدِهِ، ثُمَّ تَنَحَّى فَغَسَلَ قَدَمَيْهِ
Maimunah said: "I poured water for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to perform ghusl. He washed both of his hands two or three times, then placed his hand into the vessel, poured water over his private parts, and washed them with his hand. Then he rubbed his hand against the wall, performed wudu as he would for prayer, poured water over his entire body, then moved to another place and washed his feet."[5]
Steps to Perform Ghusl for Eid
Step 1: Intention in the Heart (Niyyah).
Before starting ghusl, one must have the intention in the heart that this bath is being performed to follow the Sunnah of Eid. The intention does not need to be spoken aloud, as it is sufficient to make it in the heart, since all deeds are based on intentions, as mentioned in the hadith below:
إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ، وَإِنَّمَا لِكُلِّ امْرِئٍ مَا نَوَى
Indeed, actions are judged by their intentions, and each person will only get what they intended.[6]
Below is the intention (niyyah) for ghusl for Eid:
نَوَيْتُ الغُسْلَ لِيَوْمِ العِيدِ سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى
I intend to perform ghusl for Eid as a sunnah for the sake of Allah Ta'ala.
Step 2: Begin with Bismillah.
After making the intention, it is recommended to say Bismillah. This is a practice taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) before starting any action. Saying Bismillah also serves as a supplication, asking for blessings and acceptance of our ghusl by Allah.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
قَالَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ : كُلُّ أَمْرٍ ذِيْ بَالٍ لَا يُبْدَأُ بِاسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمَانِ الرَّحِيْمِ فَهُوَ أَبْتَرُ
The Prophet (Muhammad) SAW said, "All good activities that do not start by saying "Bismillahirrahmanirrahim (بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمَانِ الرَّحِيْمِ)" will be cut off from blessings.[7]
Step 3: Washing Hands and Private Areas.
The next step is to wash both hands three times. After that, cleanse the private area thoroughly with the left hand to ensure no impurities remain before proceeding to the next step.
Step 4: Performing Wudu First.
After cleaning the private area, it is recommended to perform wudu, just as one would before prayer. This wudu should be complete, including washing the face, hands, wiping the head, and washing the feet. However, if ghusl is performed in a place where water flows over the feet, the feet can be washed at the end.
Step 5: Pouring Water Over the Entire Body (Starting from the Right Side).
The main step in ghusl is pouring water over the entire body. According to the Sunnah, start by pouring water over the head three times, then wash the right side of the body, followed by the left side. Ensure that water reaches all parts of the body, including skin folds and hair.
Step 6: Completing Ghusl Properly.
After the entire body has been thoroughly rinsed, make sure no area is left dry. Once finished, you can dry yourself with a towel and wear your best clothes for the Eid prayer. It is also recommended to apply fragrance to feel fresh and comfortable.
Performing ghusl before the Eid prayer is an easy Sunnah to practice but carries great benefits. Besides maintaining cleanliness, this ghusl serves as a way to honor this blessed day.
By understanding and practicing this Sunnah, we can welcome Eid al-Fitr in a clean, refreshed, and enthusiastic state. Let's make ghusl a habit so that we are well-prepared to embrace the day of victory.
Benefits of Performing Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha)
Eid al-Fitr is a moment of triumph after a month of fasting. Before heading to the Eid prayer, it is recommended to perform ghusl or a ritual bath. This ghusl is not only about cleanliness but also a way to prepare ourselves to be in the best condition. With a fresh and clean body, we can feel more comfortable when meeting family, friends, and the community. This Sunnah also symbolizes that we begin the day of victory in a state of purity, both physically and spiritually.
Performing ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is a recommended Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Take a look at the hadith below!
عَنْ عَلِيٍّ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ قَالَ: سُئِلَ عَنِ الْغُسْلِ، فَقَالَ: اغْتَسِلْ كُلَّ يَوْمٍ إِنْ شِئْتَ. فَقَالَ: لَا، إِنَّمَا الْغُسْلُ الَّذِي هُوَ الْغُسْلُ. قَالَ: يَوْمَ الْجُمُعَةِ، وَيَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ، وَيَوْمَ النَّحْرِ، وَيَوْمَ الْفِطْرِ.
From Ali (radhiyallahu 'anhu), he was asked about bathing. He replied, "Bathe every day if you wish." The person then said, "That's not what I meant. I meant the bathing that is recommended." Ali answered, "On Fridays, the Day of Arafah, Eid al-Adha, and Eid al-Fitr."[8]
The hadith above explains that ghusl is not just a habit but also a Sunnah that brings many benefits.
Besides maintaining cleanliness, ghusl is also a way to honor the day of celebration. Eid al-Fitr is a time for gathering, sharing joy, and strengthening bonds of kinship. By performing ghusl, we ensure that our bodies are fresh, clean, and fragrant, making interactions with others more pleasant.
The Eid al-Fitr prayer is a highly special act of worship. By performing ghusl before heading to the prayer area, we can focus better and engage in worship with greater devotion. The comfort of a clean body also helps us fully embrace the moment when the takbir resounds and prayers are offered.
In Islam, cleanliness holds a very significant position. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
الطُّهُورُ شَطْرُ الْإِيمَانِ
Cleanliness is part of faith.[9]
By performing ghusl, we not only maintain physical cleanliness but also demonstrate our adherence to Islamic teachings, which emphasize the importance of a clean and healthy life.
Beyond its religious significance, ghusl also provides health benefits. Bathing before heading to the Eid prayer helps the body feel refreshed and energized after a month of fasting. The flowing water washes away sweat and dirt, allowing us to feel more comfortable throughout the day.
During the festive celebrations, we sometimes forget that bodily freshness also affects our mood. When we are clean and fragrant, we feel more confident in social interactions. This enhances the experience of gathering with loved ones, making it more enjoyable and meaningful.
Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is not only recommended for adults but can also be introduced to children from an early age. Encouraging them to bathe before the Eid prayer helps instill good habits that they can carry into adulthood. It is also part of Islamic education in maintaining cleanliness and following the Sunnah.
As Muslims, we always strive to follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in all aspects of life. Performing ghusl before Eid al-Fitr is a simple yet meaningful way to express our love for the Sunnah. With the right intention, ghusl becomes an act of worship that adds blessings to our day of celebration.
Conclusion
Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is not just an ordinary bath but a form of purification encouraged in Islam. It prepares us to welcome the day of victory in a state of cleanliness and freshness, as an expression of gratitude after completing Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself recommended performing ghusl before heading to the Eid prayer, highlighting the importance of maintaining cleanliness during this special occasion. By performing ghusl, we not only cleanse our bodies but also prepare ourselves to experience joy and comfort while worshiping and gathering with family and friends.
Beyond cleanliness, ghusl is also part of following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The companions and scholars have emphasized that ghusl on Eid al-Fitr is a highly recommended Sunnah. In a narration, Ibn Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) always bathed before attending the Eid prayer. This indicates that ghusl has been a well-established practice since the time of the Prophet. By performing it, we strive to emulate his example in maintaining cleanliness and preparing for a blessed day.
Observing the Sunnah of ghusl also helps us feel more comfortable and confident when interacting with others on this joyous occasion. Eid al-Fitr is a time for meeting many people, shaking hands, and seeking forgiveness. With a clean and fragrant body, the atmosphere becomes more pleasant. Additionally, ghusl helps us engage in worship with greater focus, as a refreshed body enhances concentration and ease of movement.
Therefore, let us make it a habit to perform ghusl before the Eid prayer as a way of following the Sunnah and preparing ourselves properly. This will allow us to celebrate this day of victory with cleanliness, comfort, and abundant blessings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) along with brief answers:
Is ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) obligatory?
No, Ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) is Sunnah Mu'akkadah (highly recommended) but not obligatory.
When is the best time to perform ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha)?
The best time is before leaving for the Eid prayer, after Fajr, to keep the body fresh.
Is ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) the same as ghusl for ritual purification (janabah)?
The steps are similar, but ghusl for Eid is Sunnah, while ghusl for janabah is obligatory after major impurity.
What is the intention (niyyah) for ghusl on Eid al-Fitr?
One can say in their heart: "Nawaitul ghusla li yawmil 'Eid sunnatan lillaahi ta'aala" (I intend to perform ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) as a Sunnah for the sake of Allah).
Does ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) replace wudu?
If performed with the correct steps of wudu, ghusl can replace it. Otherwise, performing wudu afterward is recommended.
Can ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) be done the night before Eid?
It is preferable after Fajr for better adherence to the Sunnah, but performing it the night before is still acceptable.
Should children also perform ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha)?
Yes, it is recommended to help them develop good hygiene habits and follow the Sunnah.
Does ghusl for Eid (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) require soap and shampoo?
There is no specific requirement, but using soap and shampoo is permissible for cleanliness.
If someone forgets to perform ghusl before the Eid prayer, can they do it afterward?
Yes, but performing ghusl before the prayer is preferable as it aligns with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Footnotes
[1] Al-Ma'idah (5): 6.
[2] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Sahih al-Bukhari, 272, and Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 316.
[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] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Sahih al-Bukhari, 265, and Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 317.
[6] Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Sahih al-Bukhari, 1, and Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 1907.
[7] Jalaluddin as-Suyuthi, al-Jami' ash-Shaghir, 2/158.
[8] Said bin Wahab al-Qahthani, Thuhuru al-Muslim fi Dlau'i al-Kitab wa as-Sunnah, p. 127.
[9] Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 223.
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