Introduction
Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah, and it is considered one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims worldwide aspire to undertake this unique journey at least once in their lifetime. One of the notable rituals during Hajj is Qurbani, which involves the act of sacrifice. Qurbani is performed to honor the willingness of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah (SWT).
Surah Al-Baqarah (Ayah 196), provides clear instructions for us regarding the conduct of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, including directives about the ritual of Qurbani (sacrifice). The verses are an important source in the Quran that outlines the obligations and permissible actions for Muslims undertaking these pilgrimages.
Performing Qurbani during Hajj is a powerful reminder of the essence of submission to Allah’s (SWT) will. It serves as a testament to our faith that teaches us the importance of rejecting worldly attachments to concede with divine will. This moment unites us in our shared commitment to follow the path laid out by our faith, resonating with the core of our spiritual identity.
For more exploration about Hajj, you can visit these blog posts:
Is Qurbani Compulsory in Hajj?
Qurbani, also known as Hady in the context of Hajj, is mandatory for all pilgrims performing Hajj. During the Hajj, there are three types of pilgrimages: Ifraad, Qiraan, and Tamattu, each with specific rules regarding Qurbani. In Ifraad, the pilgrim performs Hajj alone, and Qurbani is not obligatory but recommended. However, for Qiraan and Tamattu, where Umrah and Hajj are combined, Qurbani becomes mandatory.
Hady is a mandatory part of the pilgrimage rites, which every pilgrim must perform. It does not take into account the financial capability of the pilgrim. However, if pilgrims lack the financial means to perform Hady, they can observe ten fasts during the Hajj days instead.
During Eid ul-Adha, Muslims who are not on pilgrimage perform Udhiyah. On this day, Qurbani is obligatory (wajib) for those who can afford it (wajib al-wusul).
During Eid ul-Adha, Muslims who are not performing Hajj sacrifice an animal called Udhiyah. Qurbani is obligatory (wajib) for those who can afford it (wajib al-wusul).
For more information about Eid ul-Adha, you can visit this blog post:
How to Perform Qurbani in Hajj
General Time frame for Qurbani
After Wuquf at Arafat: After completing the standing (Wuquf) at Arafat, the pilgrims perform Qurbani, which is an essential rite of Hajj, on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
For more information about Arafat, see this blog post: The Day of Arafat—A Moment of Mercy for All Muslims.
Before Stoning at Jamarat: The sacrifice must be performed before the pilgrims proceed to the ritual of throwing stones at the Jamarat, which symbolizes the rejection of evil. This stoning begins on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
For more information about Rami al-Jamarat, visit this blog post: Rami al-Jamarat: The Ritual of Stoning the Devil during Hajj.
Process of Performing Qurbani
During the Hajj pilgrimage, the Qurbani ritual involves sacrificing an animal as an act of devotion to Allah Almighty. This ritual reminds us of the importance of selflessness and generosity in the Islamic faith. Here is the Qurbani process during the Hajj.
Sacrificial Animals
Animals eligible for Hady include sheep, goats, cows, and camels. You can sacrifice a sheep or a goat while performing the Hady ritual alone. However, if you are in a group of pilgrims, a cow or a camel is a more practical choice as it can be shared between up to seven persons.
Intention (Niyyah)
The pilgrim must make a sincere intention (niyyah) to perform Hady as an act of worship and obedience to Allah (SWT). This intention should be made at the time of sacrifice.
Slaughter According to Islamic Guidelines
The animal must be slaughtered in compliance with Islamic guidelines. This includes reciting the name of Allah (SWT) (“Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”) at the time of slaughter, ensuring the animal is healthy and of appropriate age, and using a sharp knife to ensure a swift and humane cut.
For a deeper understanding of “Bismillah” and its significance in Islamic faith and practice, click the link provided: Understanding the Significance of ‘Bismillah’
Distribution of Meat
After the slaughter, the meat of the sacrificed animal should be distributed according to Sunnah. The distribution process involves dividing the meat into three equal parts. One-third is given to people with low income and the needy, the second third is kept for the pilgrim’s consumption, and the remaining third can be distributed among relatives and friends.
The act of Qurbani is performed with great care and respect during the Hajj, strictly adhering to Islamic principles. It fulfils a religious command and supports those in need during the holy days of Hajj.
Place of Qurbani in Hajj
After completing the major rites of the Hajj, the Qurbani typically takes place in Mina. In Mina, pilgrims also perform the ritual of stoning the Jamarat. The sacrifice should be performed on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, but it is allowed until dusk on the 13th.
Handling Missed Qurbani
If you are unable to afford Qurbani during Hajj, you have the option to fast instead.
Allah Almighty says in the Quran:
Complete the pilgrimage and minor pilgrimage for Allah. But if prevented from proceeding, then offer whatever sacrificial animals you can afford. And do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal reaches its destination. But if any of you is ill or has a scalp ailment requiring shaving, then compensate either by fasting, charity, or a sacrificial offering. In times of peace, you may combine the pilgrimage and minor pilgrimage then make the sacrificial offering you can afford. Whoever cannot afford that offering, let them fast for three days during the pilgrimage and seven after returning home—completing ten. These offerings are for those who do not live near the Sacred House. And be mindful of Allah, and know that Allah is severe in punishment. [Surah al-Baqarah, 2:196]
It is recommended to fast for three days before the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, as Prophet Muhammad (SAW) suggested to spend the following days, known as the days of Tashreeq, in eating. However, if you are unable to fast, it is permissible to do so on these days. Upon returning home, it is essential to remember to fast for seven days.
For more information, visit our blog The Days of Tashreeq.
Pre-Qurbani Prohibitions
Before performing the Qurbani (Hady) during Hajj, pilgrims must observe specific prohibitions as part of the state of Ihram.
- Pilgrims in Ihram are not allowed to cut their hair or nails until after the Qurbani has been performed.
- The use of scented products such as perfume, soap, and lotion is forbidden in the state of Ihram.
- Men must not wear sewn garments. They are typically clad in two pieces of white cloth, symbolizing equality and unity among all pilgrims, irrespective of their social or economic status. Women are not permitted to cover their faces or wear gloves, they can wear their usual clothes provided they adhere to the modesty required in Islam.
- Engaging in marital relations is strictly prohibited during Hajj, especially in Ihram. This includes the period leading up to the Qurbani, where maintaining spiritual focus and purity is crucial.
These prohibitions are meant to foster humility and self-discipline and to help one focus on spiritual rather than worldly matters. Observing these prohibitions is essential until the Qurbani is performed.
For more information about Ihram, visit this blog post: Entering the State of Ihram for Hajj and Umrah.
Authorizing Another Person for Qurbani
In Islamic jurisprudence, a pilgrim is allowed to assign the responsibility of Qurbani to another person. This can be particularly helpful when the pilgrim is old, physically unable, or unfamiliar with the process of slaughtering. The assigned person, or Agent, can perform the sacrificial act on behalf of the pilgrim, ensuring that the religious obligation is fulfilled properly.
Importance of the Agent’s Intention (Niyyah)
The Agent performing the Qurbani on behalf of the pilgrim must make the correct intention (niyyah). The niyyah should explicitly state that the act of Qurbani is being carried out on behalf of the specific pilgrim.
Recommendation for the Pilgrim’s Own Niyyah
For added precaution and to reinforce the spiritual substance of the act, it is recommended that the pilgrim also makes their intention for the Qurbani. This can be done when the Agent is appointed or before the sacrifice occurs.
The requirement that the Agent Must be Muslim
The Agent appointed to perform the Qurbani must be a Muslim. This is essential because the Qurbani during Hajj is a religious act that requires the performer to be of the same faith and understand the spiritual purification and proper rituals associated with the sacrifice.
If you are looking for a convenient way to delegate your Qurbani, consider using online services compliant with Islamic guidelines. For instance, you can arrange your Qurbani through online platforms like Lands of Haram, which offers specialized Qurbani services. To learn more about their offerings and how they can help fulfil your Qurbani obligation: Lands of Haram Qurbani Services.
Conclusion
The act of Qurbani during Hajj is an important ritual that symbolizes obedience to Allah (SWT) and the willingness to give up something valuable for His sake. This act commemorates the sacrifice of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and serves as a reminder of the need to share with those less fortunate. Pilgrims need to seek guidance from a trusted Islamic scholar to ensure their Qurbani (sacrifice) aligns with religious mandates and personal obligations, as practices and individual circumstances may vary. This assures that the spiritual essence of the sacrifice is upheld, reflecting an actual act of faith and devotion.
