Islamic Ministry instructs for Eid prayer to be performed at home

Islamic Ministry, on Monday, urged the people to perform the Fitr Eid prayer at home, in light of the nationwide ban on mass prayers in mosques to curb the spread of COVID-19.

According to the Islamic Calendar, Fitr Eid this year falls on Sunday, May 24.

Islamic Ministry issues a statement regarding the performance of Eid prayer on Monday afternoon, in which it noted that while Eid prayer congregations was greatly encouraged in Islam, the COVID-19 pandemic had made it necessary to cease social gatherings and prayer congregations in mosques, and to stay home in order to curb the spread.

Such circumstances allow for the Eid prayer to be performed at home, reads the statement.

“Where circumstances prevent Eid prayer congregations, it is obligated that the purpose is fulfilled by the people within the confines of their homes,’ reads the statement, signed by Islamic Minister Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali.

Eid prayer at home must be performed the same way it is performed in congregations in mosques and other communal locations, with the exception of the delivery of a sermon.

“Eid prayer will be performed without the call to prayer or iqamah. One can perform the prayer solo, but it is advisable that the prayer be performed with other residents of your home,” reads the statement.