Hadith Text

Um 'Atiyya said: "Our Prophet ordered us to come out (on `Id day) with the mature girls and the virgins staying in seclusion." Hafsa narrated the above mentioned Hadith and added, "The mature girls or virgins staying in seclusion but the menstruating women had to keep away from the Musalla."

Book Reference

The Two Festivals (Eids) - Sahih al-Bukhari 974

Commentary

This hadith establishes the comprehensive nature of the Eid congregation, where even women in seclusion (virgins and mature girls) were commanded to attend. The wisdom behind this is to allow all Muslims, regardless of age or social status, to witness the blessings and manifestations of Islamic unity.

The exception for menstruating women demonstrates Islam's balanced approach - while encouraging maximum participation in religious gatherings, it maintains ritual purity requirements. These women may attend but must remain separate from the prayer area (Musalla), allowing them to benefit from the spiritual atmosphere while observing proper religious etiquette.

Scholars note this hadith emphasizes the public nature of Islamic celebrations and the importance of collective worship, while also showing consideration for women's circumstances and maintaining the sanctity of prayer spaces.