What is the practice concerning the Imam's arrival time for Eid prayer?

Chapter on the Two Eid Prayers

Al-Mughni

Book of Friday Prayer

Book 4 · Issue 2 · Bab 2

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The Imam must delay his departure for the Eid prayer until the prescribed time for the prayer, based on the Prophet's practice. Malik established that the Sunnah dictates the Imam leaves his home only when the prayer time has commenced at the place of prayer. If the Imam arrives early and sits somewhere hidden from the public view, it is permissible.