As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims across Turkey are preparing to celebrate Ramazan Bayramı, also known as Eid al-Fitr, on March 30, 2025. This significant occasion marks the end of fasting and is a time for communal prayers, family gatherings, and festive meals. In anticipation of the celebrations, the Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı (Presidency of Religious Affairs) has released the official prayer times for the Bayram namazı (Bayram prayer) across various cities.
In Bartın, the Bayram prayer will be held at 07:09 in the city center, with surrounding districts observing slightly different times. Specifically, the prayer will commence at 07:07 in both Ulus and Kurucaşile, while Amasra will also follow the same time as Bartın city center at 07:09. This collective worship is an integral part of the Bayram festivities, symbolizing unity and togetherness among the community.
Similarly, in Şanlıurfa, the Bayram prayer is scheduled for 06:43, while major cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and İzmir will have their prayers at 07:07, 07:22, and 07:30 respectively. The Bayram prayer is traditionally performed approximately 50 minutes after sunrise on the first day of Ramazan Bayramı. This timing is consistent with religious practices that emphasize the importance of gathering for prayers at designated times.
In Istanbul, the preparations for the Bayram prayer are in full swing. Millions of Muslims are expected to gather in various mosques, including notable locations like Eyüpsultan, Sultanahmet, Ayasofya, and Büyük Mecidiye Cami. The Diyanet has confirmed that the prayer times for Istanbul’s districts have been set, ensuring that congregations can participate in this important ritual together.
On the eve of the Bayram, excitement fills the air as families prepare for the festivities. This year, the earliest Bayram prayer will be held in Iğdır at 06:22, while the latest will occur in Edirne and Çanakkale at 07:32. The varying times across provinces highlight the geographical diversity of Turkey and the communal spirit that binds its people during this holy occasion.
The Bayram prayer consists of two rakats (units) and is performed in congregation, emphasizing the importance of community in Islamic worship. The prayer begins with a niyyah (intention) stated by the congregation, such as, "I intend to perform the Ramadan Bayram prayer for the sake of Allah, following the imam." This is followed by a series of takbirs (raising hands and saying "Allahu Akbar"), which mark the beginning of the prayer.
During the first rakat, after the initial takbir, participants recite the Subhaneke dua silently before the imam leads the congregation in reciting the Fatiha surah and another surah or verses from the Quran. Following this, worshippers perform ruku (bowing) and sujud (prostration) as part of the prayer’s physical expressions of devotion.
In the second rakat, the process is repeated, and after completing the prayer, the muezzin leads the congregation in reciting the tashriq takbirs three times. This is followed by the imam delivering a khutbah (sermon), which serves as a reminder of the significance of Bayram and the values of charity, gratitude, and community.
The Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı has made it easy for citizens to access the prayer times online, ensuring that everyone can participate fully in the festivities. The official website lists the prayer times for all 81 provinces, allowing people to plan their day around this important event.
As the day of Bayram approaches, the anticipation builds among families and communities. Many people take the opportunity to visit relatives, share meals, and exchange gifts, reinforcing the bonds of kinship and friendship. It is a time for forgiveness, reflection, and gratitude for the blessings received during the month of Ramadan.
In summary, Ramazan Bayramı is not just a religious observance; it is a celebration of community, faith, and the shared experiences that unite Muslims around the world. With the Bayram prayer times set and preparations underway, the spirit of togetherness is palpable as Turkey gears up for this joyous occasion.
