The sun and the moon are not eclipsed on account of anyone's death or on account of anyone's birth. So when you see that, supplicate Allah, declare His greatness, and give alms.
The Book Of The Prayer For Rain (Kitab al-Istisqa') - Sunan Abi Dawud 1191
This narration from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) addresses the common pre-Islamic superstitions regarding solar and lunar eclipses. The Messenger of Allah clarifies that these celestial phenomena are not omens of death or birth of any human being, but rather signs from Allah's creation that demonstrate His absolute power and wisdom.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars explain that this hadith serves to correct erroneous beliefs prevalent in the Age of Ignorance (Jahiliyyah) where people attributed eclipses to worldly events. Instead, Muslims are instructed to respond with acts of worship: making sincere supplication (du'a), proclaiming Allah's greatness (takbir), and giving charity (sadaqah).
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this teaching redirects the believer's attention from superstitious interpretations to recognizing these events as reminders of the Day of Judgment and opportunities for spiritual renewal. The prescribed actions - prayer, remembrance, and charity - transform what could be moments of fear into occasions for drawing closer to the Creator.
Legal Rulings
According to the majority of scholars, the prayer during eclipse (Salat al-Kusuf) is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah). The Hanafi school considers it obligatory (Wajib), while others regard it as highly recommended. The prayer is performed in congregation without the call to prayer (Adhan) but with a general announcement ("Al-Salatu Jami'ah").
Al-Nawawi states that the eclipse prayer consists of two rak'ahs with two bowings (ruku') in each rak'ah, with prolonged recitation, bowing, and prostration. This extended worship reflects the gravity of the occasion and the need for sincere repentance and devotion.