What is the preferred manner of performing the eclipse prayer regarding congregation?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Eclipse Prayers (Solar and Lunar)
Primary text
It is desirable (Yusann) to perform the eclipse prayer in congregation, as the Prophet (PBUH) performed it thus. It is recommended to perform it in the mosque because the Prophet (PBUH) did so; Aisha narrated that he went out to the mosque, and the people stood in rows behind him. Performing it in the mosque also accounts for the limited time of the eclipse, preventing potential delay if one were to go to an open prayer ground (Musalla) where the phenomenon might cease before the prayer is performed.
Supporting text
It is permissible to perform the prayer individually, as indicated by the general command to pray upon seeing the phenomenon, and because it is a voluntary prayer (Nawafil), which can be performed alone like other voluntary prayers. This view is held by Malik and Al-Shafi'i. Al-Thawri stated that if the Imam leads it, they should pray with him, otherwise they should not pray.