Salat-ul-Eid (Eid prayer) is a special prayer performed on the mornings of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Here’s a step-by-step guide for performing it according to the Hanafi method, though the general steps are similar across Islamic schools of thought:

1. Preparation

• Make sure to perform Ghusl (ritual purification) and wear clean clothes, preferably new or your best clothes, for the occasion.
• Offer a light breakfast before Eid al-Fitr prayer (often dates in odd numbers) but refrain from eating before Eid al-Adha prayer until after the sacrifice.

2. Intention (Niyyah)

• Make the intention in your heart for two units of Eid prayer, specifically for Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha.

3. Forming the Congregation

• Eid prayer is typically prayed in a large gathering, such as a mosque or an open space, with an imam leading the congregation.

4. Eid Prayer Structure
Eid prayer consists of two rak’ahs (units) with some additional takbeers (saying “Allahu Akbar”).

Rak’ah 1:

• Begin by saying the opening takbeer, “Allahu Akbar,” to start the prayer.
• After this, say the additional takbeers. Depending on the school of thought:
  • Hanafi: Say three additional takbeers before reciting Surah Al-Fatihah. After each takbeer, let your hands drop to the sides, and on the third takbeer, place them over your chest as in regular prayer.
  • Others (e.g., Shafi’i): It may involve up to seven takbeers.
• After the additional takbeers, recite Surah Al-Fatihah followed by another surah (often Surah Al-A’la or Surah Al-Ghashiyah).
• Complete the rak’ah with ruku and sujood as usual.

Rak’ah 2:

• Begin by reciting Surah Al-Fatihah and another surah (often Surah Al-Ghashiyah or Surah Al-A’la).
• After the recitation, say three additional takbeers.
• Complete the rak’ah with ruku and sujood as usual and finish with tashahhud, durood, and salaam.

5. Eid Khutbah (Sermon)

• After the prayer, the imam will give a sermon (khutbah). It is recommended to sit and listen to the khutbah, as it is part of the Eid tradition.

Key Points:

• Intention: Make a clear intention for Salat-ul-Eid in your heart.
• Takbeers: Be mindful of the additional takbeers in each rak’ah.
• Congregation: Eid prayer is ideally performed in congregation, led by an imam.
• Listening to the Khutbah: It is recommended to stay for the khutbah after the prayer.

May Allah accept your prayer and your good deeds on this joyous day!