As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, Muslims across Turkey are preparing for the joyous celebration of Ramadan Bayram, also known as Eid al-Fitr. This year, Ramadan Bayram will commence on Sunday, March 30, 2025, and the Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı (Presidency of Religious Affairs) has announced the times for the Bayram prayers in various cities.
In Istanbul, the Bayram prayer is scheduled for 07:22 AM, while in the capital city of Ankara, it will take place at 07:07 AM. Meanwhile, those in Izmir will gather for the prayer at 07:30 AM. Other cities across Turkey also have specific times set for this important religious observance.
Here are the Bayram prayer times for several cities:
- Adana: 06:57
- Aksaray: 07:02
- Ankara: 07:07
- Antalya: 07:16
- Bursa: 07:22
- Izmir: 07:30
- Gaziantep: 06:49
- Malatya: 06:45
- Trabzon: 06:39
- Van: 06:25
The Bayram prayer consists of two rak'ahs and is ideally performed in congregation at a mosque. It is important to note that the Bayram prayer is different from the regular daily prayers, as it is conducted without the traditional call to prayer (ezan) or the announcement (kamet). Instead, the imam leads the congregation through the prayer, which begins with the intention (niyet) to perform the Bayram prayer.
During the Bayram prayer, the congregation expresses their intention by saying, "Niyet ettim Allah’ım senin rızan için Ramazan Bayramı namazı kılmaya, uydum hazır olan imama," which translates to, "I intend to perform the Ramadan Bayram prayer for Your pleasure, O Allah, and I follow the imam who is present." Following this, the imam raises his hands and says "Allâhü ekber," signaling the start of the prayer.
The prayer involves a series of takbirs (saying "Allâhü ekber") and specific recitations. After the first takbir, the congregation recites the "Sübhâneke" prayer silently, followed by additional takbirs and the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha and another surah from the Quran. The imam leads the congregation through the prostrations and the second rak'ah, culminating in the concluding prayers and greetings.
As the Bayram prayer marks the beginning of Ramadan Bayram, it is a time for Muslims to come together in unity and gratitude, celebrating the end of a month of fasting and reflection. The atmosphere in mosques is expected to be filled with joy and spiritual fervor as communities gather to observe this significant occasion.
In Aksaray, the Bayram prayer will take place at 07:02 AM, following the same structure and significance as in other cities. The spiritual atmosphere is expected to be profound, as families and friends come together to celebrate this holy day.
After the prayer, it is customary for Muslims to greet each other with heartfelt wishes, sharing joy and blessings. This is also a time for charity and helping those in need, as the spirit of giving is a fundamental aspect of Ramadan Bayram.
As the day progresses, many will partake in festive meals, share sweets, and visit loved ones. The celebration is not just a personal affair but a communal one, reinforcing the bonds of family and friendship.
In summary, the Bayram prayer is a vital part of the Ramadan Bayram festivities, providing an opportunity for spiritual renewal and community connection. With prayer times set and preparations underway, Muslims across Turkey are looking forward to a joyful and meaningful celebration on March 30, 2025.
