Offering Tahiyyat Al-Masjid in the place where `Eid Prayer is held

Q: As the places where `Eid Prayer and Salat-ul-Istisqa' (Prayer for rain) are offered become known Masjids (mosques), are fenced, and a part of Muslims' inviolable endowments. There is a big dispute regarding Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid (two-unit Prayer to honor the mosque) whether it is desirable or forbidden, due to the authentic Hadith related by Al-Bukhari: The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not offer supererogatory Salah before or after the `Eid. We wish to refer this issue to his highness Shaykh `Abdul-`Aziz ibn Baz to clarify the matter and explain the soundest opinion of scholars. Should we offer Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid on entering these Masjids (mosques)? What is the ruling if `Eid Prayer was performed in a Masjid where Jumu`ah (Friday) Salah is performed? We wish you would clarify this and the ruling on offering a supererogatory Salah in the `Eid Masjid before or after the Salah. If it is prohibited, is it prohibited for both the Imam and the follower or only for the Imam? May Allah preserve you.

A: When Muslims offer `Eid Prayer or Salat-ul-Istisqa' outside their residence; it is not permissible for the people who come to the praying place to offer supererogatory Salah; whether Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid or any other Salah. This is confirmed by the Hadith related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them): The Prophet (peace be upon him) came out on the Day of `Eid Al-Fitr and prayed two Raka`ahs without performing any Prayer before or after them. (Part No. 8; Page No. 305) If the `Eid Prayer or Salat-ul-Istisqa' is observed in one of the usual Masjids, there is no harm in offering Tahiyyat-ul-Masjid upon entering the Masjid and no other supererogatory Salah is required therein.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.