What are the recommended components of the Istisqa sermon?
Chapter on the Prayer for Rain (Istisqa)
Al-Mughni
Book of the Eclipse Prayers (Solar and Lunar)
Primary text
It is recommended to begin the sermon with the Takbir, mirroring the Eid sermon. The Imam should frequently seek forgiveness (Istighfar) and send blessings upon the Prophet. Extensive recitation of verses commanding seeking forgiveness is necessary, particularly Quran 70:10: "Seek forgiveness from your Lord. Indeed, He was ever Forgiving," and Quran 70:11: "He will send upon you rain, abundantly," and similar verses, because Allah has promised to send rain in response to seeking His forgiveness.
Supporting text
It is also recommended to encourage repentance, such as the supplication of Adam: "Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves," (Quran 7:23), Noah's plea: "If You do not forgive me and have mercy upon me, I will be among the losers," (Quran 11:47), Jonah's cry: "There is no deity except You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers," (Quran 21:87), and Moses' admission: "My Lord, indeed I have wronged myself, so forgive me," (Quran 28:16). This is because disobedience is a cause for the withholding of rain, and seeking forgiveness and repentance remove those obstacles.