At what time is the Kusouf prayer performed?

The correct answer is Solar eclipse.

In Islamic terminology, the prayer performed during a solar eclipse is known as Salat al-Kusuf. This is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah (strongly emphasized Sunnah) that the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ practiced and taught his companions. The word "Kusuf" specifically refers to the darkening or partial/total disappearance of the sun's light when the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun.

The Historical Context in Medina

One of the most famous historical instances of this prayer occurred in Medina during the 10th year of the Hijrah. Coincidentally, the solar eclipse happened on the same day that the Prophet’s ﷺ young son, Ibrahim, passed away. Some people in the community began to whisper that the sun had eclipsed because of the death of the Prophet's son.

Upon hearing this, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ immediately corrected this misconception. He led the people in a special congregational prayer and delivered a sermon, stating:

"The sun and the moon are two of the signs of Allah; they do not eclipse because of the death or life of someone. When you see them, call upon Allah and pray until the eclipse is over."

 

This event established that Islamic rituals are based on the recognition of divine power over nature, rather than superstitions or omens.

The Unique Method of Salat al-Kusuf

The Kusouf prayer is distinct from the five daily prayers in its structure. It consists of two Rak’ahs (units), but unlike standard prayers, each Rak’ah contains two standings (Qiyam) and two bowings (Ruku).

1. 
   

   First Standing: The Imam recites Surah Al-Fatiha followed by a long Surah.

   
   


2. 
   

   First Ruku: A long bowing is performed.

   
   
    
   
   


3. 
   

   Second Standing: Instead of going to prostration, the Imam stands back up and recites Surah Al-Fatiha and another long Surah (shorter than the first).

   
   


4. 
   

   Second Ruku: Another long bowing is performed before finally proceeding to the prostrations (Sujud).

   
   
    
   
   

This pattern is repeated for the second Rak’ah. The length of the prayer is intended to last as long as the eclipse itself, encouraging the believers to remain in a state of worship and reflection while the natural phenomenon is occurring.

Distinguishing Kusouf from Khusuf

It is common for students to confuse Kusuf with Khusuf. While they are linguistically related, Islamic jurisprudence uses them for different events:

• 
  

  Salat al-Kusuf: Performed during a Solar Eclipse (Sun).

  
  
   
  
  


• 
  

  Salat al-Khusuf: Performed during a Lunar Eclipse (Moon).

  
  

The difference in spelling (the letter 'Kaf' vs. 'Kha') is the key identifier in Arabic texts.

Spiritual Significance

The performance of the Kusouf prayer serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment and the absolute sovereignty of Allah over the universe. It shifts the human reaction to a rare celestial event from curiosity or fear to spiritual submission. It is recommended to perform this prayer in congregation at a mosque, though it can be offered individually if necessary. Along with the prayer, Muslims are encouraged to give charity (Sadaqah), engage in Dhikir (remembrance), and seek forgiveness (Istighfar) during the duration of the eclipse.