"Allah's Messenger would order the virgins, the mature women, the secluded and the menstruating to go out for the two Eid. As for the menstruating women, they were to stay away from the Musalla and participate in the Muslims supplications." One of them said: 'O Messenger of Allah! What if she does not have a Jilbab? He said: 'Then let her sis lend her a Jilbab.'"
Hadith Context & Significance
This narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (Hadith 539) establishes the comprehensive nature of Eid congregation. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) specifically included all categories of women - emphasizing that even those normally exempt from prayers should attend this gathering.
The command demonstrates Eid's role as a complete community celebration where spiritual benefits extend beyond formal prayer to include witnessing Muslim unity and participating in collective supplications.
Juridical Ruling on Women's Attendance
Scholars derive from this hadith that Eid prayer attendance is Sunnah for women, though not obligatory. The inclusion of menstruating women - who don't perform prayer - indicates the gathering's value transcends ritual prayer alone.
The mature woman's question about proper attire shows the companions' understanding that Islamic guidelines must be practically achievable, with the Prophet providing solutions for those lacking resources.
Spiritual Benefits for Menstruating Women
Though staying apart from the prayer area, menstruating women still gain blessings by being present at the Eid gathering. They participate in takbirat, listen to the khutbah, witness Muslim unity, and join the collective dua.
This reflects Islam's wisdom in maintaining women's connection to communal worship during periods of ritual impurity, ensuring no one is completely isolated from religious gatherings.
Modesty Requirements & Practical Solutions
The requirement for Jilbab (outer garment) establishes that women must maintain proper Islamic attire when in public gatherings. The Prophet's solution of borrowing demonstrates Shariah's practicality and accommodation for those lacking means.
This ruling balances the obligation of modesty with real-world circumstances, showing Islamic law's flexibility in ensuring religious participation while upholding moral standards.