The sun eclipsed and the Prophet (ﷺ) got up, being afraid that it might be the Hour (i.e. Day of Judgment). He went to the Mosque and offered the prayer with the longest Qiyam, bowing and prostration that I had ever seen him doing. Then he said, "These signs which Allah sends do not occur because of the life or death of somebody, but Allah makes His worshipers afraid by them. So when you see anything thereof, proceed to remember Allah, invoke Him and ask for His forgiveness."
Theological Significance of Eclipses
The eclipse prayer (Salat al-Kusuf) is a confirmed Sunnah established by the Prophet's practice. Eclipses are among the great signs of Allah's power that should inspire reflection and humility.
The Prophet's immediate concern for the Day of Judgment demonstrates how believers should view cosmic phenomena - not as mere natural events but as reminders of divine power and the inevitable reckoning.
Exegesis of the Prophetic Response
The prolonged standing, bowing, and prostrations indicate the gravity with which Muslims should approach such signs. The prayer's extended duration reflects complete submission and earnest supplication.
The Prophet explicitly corrected common superstitions that eclipses occurred due to births or deaths of notable persons. This establishes the Islamic position against astrological beliefs and affirms divine causality.
Practical Guidance for Believers
When witnessing eclipses, Muslims should: hasten to prayer, remember Allah abundantly, seek forgiveness, give charity, and free slaves if possible - as mentioned in other narrations.
The collective response emphasizes community worship and spiritual awakening rather than scientific curiosity alone, though both have their proper place in Islamic tradition.