Eid ul Adha Prayer Rules According to Different Islamic Schools of Thought

Islam’s rich diversity is reflected in the different schools of thought (madhahib) that guide Muslims in their worship. While all schools agree on the significance of Eid ul Adha, they offer varied interpretations of how the prayer is performed. Understanding the eid ul adha prayer rules according to each Islamic school of thought ensures a deeper respect for tradition and unity within diversity.

Hanafi School: Eid ul Adha Prayer Structure

The Hanafi school teaches that the Eid prayer is wajib (necessary) for adult males. It consists of two rakats with six additional takbeers:

• Three takbeers after the opening takbeer and Subhanaka Allahumma in the first rakat
• Three takbeers before ruku in the second rakat

No adhan or iqamah is given. The khutbah is considered Sunnah Muakkadah and should be delivered after the prayer. If praying alone or at home, the khutbah is not obligatory. The Hanafi school emphasizes early timing and congregation in an open space when possible.

Shafi’i School: Slight Variations in Takbeers

The Shafi’i madhhab recommends that the Eid prayer be offered as two rakats with seven takbeers in the first rakat (including the opening takbeer) and five in the second:

• First rakat: One takbeer to start, then six additional takbeers
• Second rakat: Five takbeers before Surah Al-Fatiha

The prayer is Sunnah Muakkadah for both men and women. The imam is encouraged to remind worshippers of the takbeer count before starting. The khutbah is also Sunnah and not required at home or in solitary prayer. In this school, reciting the takbeers with pauses in between to say dhikr or praise Allah is common practice.

Maliki and Hanbali Schools: Emphasizing Congregation and Khutbah

In the Maliki madhhab, the prayer consists of two rakats with six additional takbeers—five in the first rakat after the opening takbeer and one in the second rakat before reciting Al-Fatiha. Unlike Hanafi or Shafi’i, they focus more on congregation and less on the exact count.

In the Hanbali madhhab:

• Seven takbeers in the first rakat
• Five in the second before reciting Al-Fatiha

The Eid prayer is considered Sunnah Muakkadah and highly recommended for all. Both madhhabs emphasize listening to the khutbah, especially when in a congregation. At-home prayer is permitted when necessary, and the rules align closely with the overall consensus among scholars.

Commonalities and Respect Across Schools

Despite variations in takbeer count and emphasis, all Islamic schools agree on these foundational elements of eid ul adha prayer rules:

• Prayer consists of two rakats
• Includes additional takbeers to glorify Allah
• No adhan or iqamah is required
• Khutbah follows the prayer, not precedes it

Differences are rooted in traditions traced back to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions. Therefore, all valid practices should be respected without judgment or division among Muslims.

Embracing the varied Eid ul Adha prayer rules across different schools of thought strengthens our understanding and reinforces unity in our shared spiritual purpose.

FAQs about School-Specific Eid ul Adha Prayer Rules

Why do the takbeer counts differ between schools?

Each school derives rulings from authentic hadiths and companions’ practices, leading to slight differences in interpretation.

Is one method more correct than another?

All recognized schools are valid. Muslims should follow the teachings of their own school or trusted local scholars.

Can I switch methods depending on the imam?

Yes, it’s permissible to follow the imam’s method during congregation even if it differs from your own school’s practice.

What if I’m unsure which school to follow?

Choose a method that is most commonly practiced in your community or seek guidance from a local imam or scholar.

Is the khutbah mandatory in all schools?

It is strongly recommended in all schools during congregational prayer but not mandatory, especially at home.