The sun and the moon are two signs of Allah; they are not eclipsed on account of anyones death or on account of anyone's birth. So when you see them, glorify and supplicate Allah, observe prayer, give alms. O Ummah of Muhammad, none is more indignant than Allah When His servant or maid commits fornication. O people of Muhammad, by Allah, if you knew what I know, you would weep much and laugh little.
The Book of Prayer - Eclipses
Sahih Muslim 901 a
Exposition of the Hadith
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) contains profound wisdom regarding celestial phenomena and divine wisdom. The Messenger of Allah clarifies that eclipses are not omens of worldly events but rather signs from Allah to inspire reflection and devotion.
When the Prophet states "they are not eclipsed on account of anyone's death or birth," he refutes the pre-Islamic superstitions prevalent in Arabia. This establishes the Islamic principle that celestial events operate according to Allah's predetermined laws, not as indicators of human affairs.
Prescribed Actions During Eclipses
The command to "glorify and supplicate Allah, observe prayer, give alms" demonstrates that eclipses should prompt spiritual awakening. The eclipse prayer (Salat al-Kusuf) is a confirmed Sunnah wherein Muslims gather in congregation to seek Allah's mercy and protection.
Alms-giving during this time carries special merit, as it combines physical worship with social responsibility, turning cosmic events into opportunities for communal benefit and spiritual purification.
Divine Displeasure and Human Accountability
The mention of Allah's indignation toward fornication serves as a powerful reminder that while natural phenomena are not punishments, moral transgressions truly anger our Creator. This connects cosmic signs with ethical conduct.
The final exhortation to "weep much and laugh little" reveals the Prophet's profound awareness of divine realities unseen by ordinary people. This encourages believers to maintain a balance between worldly engagement and spiritual preparedness, always mindful of the Hereafter.