A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking out the Sun’s light entirely or creating a ring of light known as the “corona” around the silhouette of the Moon. During a total solar eclipse, the sky darkens significantly, and observers within the path of totality can witness the Sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona, along with stars and planets that are typically not visible during the day.
Total solar eclipses are relatively rare events that can only be observed from specific locations on Earth. The path of totality, where the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon, is typically narrow, and only those within this path can witness the total eclipse. Outside the path of totality, observers may experience a partial solar eclipse, where only a portion of the Sun is covered by the Moon.
The Qur’an mentions solar eclipses and lunar eclipses as evidence of the Day of Judgement. As the sun and the moon lose their brightness apparently in their respective eclipses, they will lose their light forever on the Day of Judgement. Allah Almighty said:
They are asking ˹mockingly˺, “When is this Day of Judgment?” But when the sight is stunned, and the moon is eclipsed, and the sun and the moon are brought together; on that Day one will cry, “Where is the escape?” [Qur’an,75:6-10]
The phrase ‘and the sun and the moon are brought together‘ may refer to the lunisolar conjunctions on the new moon, when the dark disc of the moon covers the bright surface of the sun, making both of them dark.
In Islamic tradition, solar eclipses have often been interpreted as significant events carrying spiritual and symbolic meaning. Various scholars and believers have drawn connections between eclipses and spiritual lessons, often referencing Hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) to support their perspectives. As the eclipses remind us the Day of Judgement, that is why they are said to be ayaat/signs.
One notable Hadith often cited in discussions about solar eclipses is found in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, where it is reported that during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a solar eclipse occurred on the day his son Ibrahim passed away. Some companions thought that the eclipse was a sign of mourning for the Prophet’s loss. However, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) clarified that eclipses are natural phenomena and not related to the birth or death of any individual. Instead, he advised people to turn to prayer and seek forgiveness from Allah during such events.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“These are two signs amongst the Signs of Allah, and they do not eclipse because of anyone’s death or life. So, if you see them, hasten for the Prayer.” [Sahih al-Bukhari: H#3203]
Allah Almighty said in Surah Al-Isra (17:59). In English, it translates to “And We send not the signs except as a warning.“
This verse suggests that certain natural phenomena, including solar eclipses, can be seen as signs from Allah intended to serve as reminders or warnings for humanity. It underscores the belief in Islam that everything in the universe, including celestial events, holds significance and carries messages for those who are willing to reflect and heed them.
This Hadith underscores the importance of understanding natural occurrences within the framework of Islamic teachings while also cautioning against attributing supernatural significance to them. In essence, it teaches believers to reflect on their relationship with the divine and use such events as opportunities for spiritual introspection and repentance.
Eclipses where the Moon just covers the Sun happen only on Earth. Simple planetary geometry creates a dazzling optical illusion. Earth is perfectly positioned so that the Moon and the Sun appear to be the same size. This is not really the case. The Sun’s diameter is about 400 times larger than the Moon. But because the Sun is about 400 times farther away, both objects appear equal in size in the sky. No other place in the solar system has solar eclipses quite like Earth’s. So eclipses are not a coincidence.
From an Islamic viewpoint, solar eclipses can serve as reminders of the power and majesty of Allah, emphasizing the temporary nature of worldly affairs and the need for spiritual preparation. They are often seen as moments for heightened devotion, where believers are encouraged to engage in extra prayers, seek forgiveness for their sins, and contemplate the greater purpose of their existence.
Furthermore, some scholars suggest that solar eclipses may serve as warnings or signs from Allah, urging individuals and societies to reflect on their actions and turn towards righteousness. Just as Prophet Muhammad encouraged his followers to turn to prayer during eclipses, Muslims today are reminded to evaluate their conduct and strive for moral and ethical excellence.
However, it’s crucial to approach such interpretations with caution and avoid making definitive claims about the specific meaning or purpose behind natural events. Islam emphasizes the importance of using reason and knowledge to understand the world around us, while also recognizing the limitations of human understanding in comprehending the mysteries of the universe.
What Muslims Should Do on Eclipses?
In Islam, there are certain recommended actions and prayers to be performed during a total solar eclipse. These include:
- Performing Salat al-Kusuf: Salat al-Kusuf is a special prayer to be performed during a solar eclipse. It consists of two rakats (units) of prayer. During the eclipse, Muslims are encouraged to gather in congregation and perform this prayer, seeking Allah’s mercy and protection.
- Engaging in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Muslims are encouraged to engage in the remembrance of Allah (dhikr) during the eclipse. This can include reciting Quranic verses, saying prayers (duas), and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
- Making Supplications for Forgiveness and Mercy: It is recommended to make supplications (duas) during the eclipse, asking for forgiveness for sins and seeking Allah’s mercy and protection from harm.
- Engaging in acts of Charity: During significant events such as eclipses, Muslims should engage in acts of charity as a way to seek Allah’s blessings and demonstrate gratitude for His mercy.
- Reflecting on the Significance of the Eclipse: Muslims are encouraged to reflect on the signs of Allah’s creation and power manifested in natural phenomena like solar eclipses. It’s a time for contemplation and gratitude towards the Creator.
- Avoiding Superstitious Beliefs: While recognizing the significance of the eclipse in Islamic teachings, it’s important for Muslims to avoid engaging in superstitions or attributing the eclipse to supernatural or non-Islamic beliefs.
Overall, during a total solar eclipse, like the total solar eclipse on Aril 8th, 2024 the Muslims are encouraged to turn towards Allah in prayer, reflection, and supplication, seeking His mercy, guidance, and protection.
Warning for Jews
This Solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, falls exactly on the first day of the first month of Jewish Calendar–Nissan. While beginning of the Jewish year with a total solar eclipse marks a bad omen for Jews, because, their sacred book Talmud: Sukkha, 29a:8 deems a solar eclipse a bad omen. So, the Third Temple is not going to be founded on this Passover in Sha Allah. So they should stop the massacre in Gaza immediately.
In summary, from an Islamic perspective, solar eclipses can be viewed as opportunities for spiritual reflection, reminders of divine power, and occasions for seeking forgiveness and guidance. While believers may draw inspiration from Hadiths and religious teachings to interpret these events, it’s essential to maintain a balanced understanding that respects both the natural order and the spiritual dimensions of existence.
