ABU DHABI // Men, women and children have been asked to join in prayers for rain at mosques across the country on Tuesday morning.
Following directives by the President, Sheikh Khalifa, to perform the rain prayer, known as Istisqaa, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments designated a number of mosques to perform the prayers. Officials met on Monday to discuss arrangements and procedures.
“Imams will educate and explain to worshippers how to perform the prayer and its benefits during lectures to be held at mosques tomorrow,” said Dr Mohammed Al Kaabi, chairman of Awqaf.
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Following the sunnah of Prophet Mohammed, whenever there is a delay in rainfall, the president of a state must issue an order for the prayer to be performed.
The official prayer is attended by the president, or one of his officials if he is absent. Awqaf said the official prayer will be held at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque starting at 7.30am.
A number of religious officials including Dr Al Kaabi, and Dr Farook Hamada, the religious advisor for Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, will attend.
Istisqaa prayers at all other mosques will also start at 7.30am and are expected to last for 45 minutes.
hdajani@thenational.ae
