Understanding the Procedure, Recitations, and Intentions for Idul Adha Bathing 2025

Kapanlagi.com - The Eid al-Adha celebration is not just a moment for sacrifice and performing the Eid prayer. Behind the festivities of this celebration, there are sunnah practices that are often forgotten, even though their rewards are immense! One of them is the sunnah bath before performing the Eid al-Adha prayer.

Although it is sunnah, the Eid al-Adha bath has specific procedures and timing that must be carefully observed. Many of us may not realize that the timing of this bath greatly influences the validity of the sunnah worship. If the bath is taken too early, our worship may not be counted as the Eid al-Adha bath.

In Islam, intention is the key element in every act of worship, including the sunnah bath on the holiday. Therefore, reading the specific intention during this bath is an important requirement. “Nawaitu sunnatal ghusli li ‘Idil Adha,” is the recommended intention to be recited during the Eid al-Adha bath, as mentioned in the book Hasyiyah al-Bajuri.

1. Origins and Laws of Idul Adha Bathing

Bathing on the festive day, whether Idul Fitri or Idul Adha, is a tradition that has been passed down through generations in Islam and has become an important part of the recommended rituals. The companions of the Prophet Muhammad SAW have set an example in this regard, and various fiqh books explain the importance of this practice. In Hasyiyah al-Bajuri, bathing on Idul Adha is referred to as a highly recommended sunnah, although it is not obligatory—meaning that performing it will bring rewards, while neglecting it is not sinful. However, by performing this bath, we emulate the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and his companions. Interestingly, this practice is not limited to certain groups; both men and women, young and old, are all encouraged to do it. This shows that Idul Adha bathing is an inclusive tradition that can be performed by all Muslims, adding warmth and togetherness in celebrating this blessed day.

2. Permitted Time and Valid Limits for Sunnah Bathing

The Idul Adha bath is a moment full of meaning and must be done at the right time, starting from midnight on the 10th of Dzulhijjah. However, the most recommended time is after Fajr until before the Eid prayer begins. Bathing before this time, especially if done before midnight, will not be valid and will not be considered as the Idul Adha bath. Many people are tempted to "start early" by bathing at night so as not to rush, but this can overlook the existing provisions. Bathing in the morning not only refreshes the body but also helps enhance concentration in worship. According to an article from Yatim Mandiri, this sunnah bath provides a sense of "purity and cleanliness" and makes us feel "fresher" when performing the Idul Adha prayer.

3. Recommended Intention Reading and How to Pronounce It

The intention for the Idul Adha bath must be pronounced specifically, not just a regular bath. This intention can be pronounced when the water first pours over the body. Two commonly used versions of the intention are as follows:

نَوَيْتُ الْغُسْلَ لِعِيْدِ الْأَضْحَى سُنَّةً لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى

Nawaitul-ghusla li ‘idil adha sunnatan lillahi ta’ala

Meaning: I intend to bathe for Idul Adha as a sunnah for the sake of Allah ta’ala.

نَوَيْتُ سُنṭَةَ الْغُسْلِ لِعِيْدِ الْأَضْحَى

Nawaitu sunnatal ghusli li ‘Idil Adha

Meaning: I intend to perform the sunnah bath for Idul Adha.

Both are valid and can be used according to the customs of the adopted school of thought. The most important thing is that the intention must be present in the heart, with full awareness and sincerity that this bath is done to follow the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad SAW.

4. The Procedure for Sunnah Bathing on Idul Adha

Reciting the Intention

The intention is recited when the water first touches the body. It can be pronounced in the heart or verbally, but it should be done simultaneously with the beginning of the bathing process.

Washing the Hands

Before pouring water over the entire body, wash the hands first three times. This is part of the sunnah of major bathing.

Cleaning Impurities

Clean the body from impurities, especially in hard-to-reach areas like skin folds and body creases.

Performing Wudu

Perform wudu completely as if preparing for prayer, to purify oneself from minor impurities.

Pouring Water Over the Entire Body

Pour water over the body starting from the head, then the right side, and then the left. Ensure that the water reaches all parts of the body, including the hair and covered areas.

By following the procedures above, this sunnah bath will be valid and rewarded. Do not forget to use clean flowing water for a more perfect purification process.

5. The Virtues and Benefits of Bathing on Eid

Bathing on Eid is not just a ritual, but also a virtue that has a positive impact both physically and spiritually. When we do it, our bodies feel fresher, our confidence soars, making our worship feel more focused. This bath becomes a symbol of readiness to welcome the holiday with a pure soul and body, making the Eid prayer more meaningful because it is performed in a clean and fragrant state. Furthermore, maintaining personal hygiene is also very important when mingling with the crowd of worshippers. The Prophet Muhammad SAW highly encouraged bathing on Eid as part of Islamic tradition, and many scholars agree that reviving this Sunnah is an expression of love for the Prophet and a spirit of welcoming the holy day.

6. Questions About the Topic

Q: Is it permissible to bathe for Eid al-Adha before dawn?

A: Yes, it is even recommended. The best time to bathe for Eid al-Adha is after the dawn prayer until before the Eid prayer.

Q: What if the bath is done before midnight?

A: According to NU Online, if done before midnight, it is not valid and does not count as the Eid al-Adha bath.

Q: Can menstruating women bathe for Eid al-Adha?

A: Yes. Even though they cannot perform the Eid prayer, women are still encouraged to take the Sunnah bath for Eid al-Adha.

Q: Is bathing for Eid al-Adha obligatory?

A: No. The ruling on bathing for Eid al-Adha is Sunnah Muakkadah, highly recommended but not obligatory.

Q: What should be prepared before this Sunnah bath?

A: Flowing clean water, the right intention, and ensuring the body is free from impurities.

(kpl/mni)