Engagement Prayer and Ceremony Guide at Eyup Sultan

Engagement Prayer Tradition

The engagement prayer is a tradition of couples who have decided to marry having prayers recited in the presence of their families. In Turkish-Islamic culture, the engagement is an important step on the path to marriage. Having an engagement prayer at Eyüp Sultan Mosque means making a blessed start in the spiritual presence of Hz. Abu Ayyub al-Ansari. Many families carefully maintain this tradition.

Application and Appointment

An application to the mosque administration is required for the engagement prayer. Prayer programs are generally arranged outside prayer times. It is recommended to make an appointment at least one week in advance as weekends can be busy. No documents are required during application; only date and time coordination is arranged.

Prayer Ceremony

The engagement prayer ceremony is usually held in a corner of the mosque or in the courtyard. Verses from the Holy Quran are recited by the imam, and a blessed life is wished for the couple and their families. The prayer is completed with the recitation of Surah al-Fatiha. The ceremony takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Afterwards, the couple and their families can visit the tomb and pray.

Preparations and Traditions

• Engagement rings should be ready before the ceremony
• Elders from both families should be present at the ceremony
• A headscarf is required for women (can be obtained at the mosque)
• Distributing candy or Turkish delight after the ceremony is traditional
• An engagement dinner can be given at restaurants around the mosque
• Photography can be taken in the mosque courtyard and surroundings