"We were with the Prophet (ﷺ) and the sun became eclipsed. He got up and went to the masjid, dragging his garment in haste. The people stood with him and he prayed two rak'ahs as they usually prayed. When the eclipse ended he addressed us and said 'The sun and the moon are two of the signs of Allah (SWT), with which He strikes fear into His slaves. They do not become eclipsed for the death or birth of anyone. If you see either of them being eclipsed, then pray and supplicate until it removed it from you.'"
The Book of Eclipses - Sunan an-Nasa'i 1502
"We were with the Prophet (ﷺ) and the sun became eclipsed. He got up and went to the masjid, dragging his garment in haste. The people stood with him and he prayed two rak'ahs as they usually prayed. When the eclipse ended he addressed us and said 'The sun and the moon are two of the signs of Allah (SWT), with which He strikes fear into His slaves. They do not become eclipsed for the death or birth of anyone. If you see either of them being eclipsed, then pray and supplicate until it removed it from you.'"
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's swift movement to the mosque demonstrates the urgency with which Muslims should respond to celestial signs. Dragging his garment indicates his haste and concern, teaching us that eclipses demand immediate spiritual attention rather than casual observation.
The prayer of two rak'ahs establishes the Sunnah method for Salat al-Kusuf (eclipse prayer). This differs from regular prayers in its prolonged recitation and bowings, though the basic structure remains familiar to facilitate congregation participation.
The clarification that eclipses are not due to human births or deaths refutes pre-Islamic superstitions and affirms divine omnipotence. Allah employs these phenomena as reminders of His majesty and power, inspiring reverential fear (khawf) in believers.
The command to pray and supplicate until the eclipse ends emphasizes continuous worship during the event. This combines formal prayer (salah) with personal supplication (du'a), engaging both prescribed worship and heartfelt communication with the Creator.
Legal and Spiritual Dimensions
Eclipse prayer is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah mu'akkadah) according to scholarly consensus. It is recommended for both men and women, preferably in congregation though permissible individually.
The eclipse serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment when the sun will be darkened, prompting self-reflection and repentance. It is a time for increased remembrance of Allah, seeking forgiveness, and giving charity.
Scholars note that the fear inspired should be one of reverential awe leading to obedience, not paralyzing terror. The event ultimately manifests divine wisdom and mercy by turning hearts back to their Lord.