Introduction
The last month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hijjah, is the most sacred time of the year for Muslims worldwide. During this month, the Hajj (the Annual Pilgrimage) takes place, and Eid ul-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” falls on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah. A significant aspect of Eid ul-Adha is the Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal, celebrating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah hold great spiritual significance for Muslims. They offer opportunities for worship, giving charity, and seeking Allah’s (SWT) mercy, making them the “Best Days of the Year.”
Narrated by Hazrat Ibn Abbas (RA) that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said:
“There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah Almighty than these days,” meaning the (first) ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. They said: “O Messenger of Allah (SAW)! Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah (SWT)?” He (PBUM) said: “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah Almighty unless a man goes out with himself and his wealth and does not bring anything back.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah 1727)
The importance of Qurbani in Islam goes above the physical act of sacrificing an animal. It is a reminder of virtues like selflessness, righteousness, and obedience to Allah (SWT). Qurbani is not just a ritual but a deeply spiritual practice that shows our readiness to Allah (SWT) above our interests.
If you wish to perform the Hajj and need correct information, please don’t worry. Our website provides complete information about it. Visit our Hajj and Umrah category for more details.
What is Qurbani?
Qurbani, derived from the Arabic word “qurb,” meaning “closeness” or “nearness,” refers to the animal sacrifice during Eid ul Adha. It is also known as Udhiya. Qurbani is a Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS).
This tradition outlines its origins back to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (RA), who was commanded by Allah (SWT) to sacrifice his beloved son, Hazrat Ismail (AS), as a test of faith. As Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) prepared to obey this divine order, Hazrat Jibrail (AS) came with the command of Allah (SWT) and provided a ram to be sacrificed in Ismail’s (RA) place. This key event is recorded in Islamic tradition and celebrated for centuries.
For more information about Eid ul Adha, please visit the following blog post,
We have now discussed some common questions about Sacrifice on Eid ul Adha. These questions are more useful when you are in trouble with Qurbani rules.
Who Must Perform Qurbani?
The obligatory nature of Qurbani on Eid ul Adha can differ among the different Islamic schools of thought (Madhabs). Here are the views of the major schools:
Hanafi School:
- Qurbani is considered Wajib (obligatory) for every sane adult Muslim who possesses wealth beyond their basic needs, equivalent to the Nisab. The nisab (minimum threshold of wealth) for Qurbani is the same as the nisab for Zakat.
- Each eligible individual in a household should perform their own Qurbani if they meet the financial criteria.
Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali Schools:
- These schools view Qurbani as a highly recommended Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) rather than obligatory.
- A single Qurbani is sufficient for the entire household, regardless of the number of eligible members.
- Larger animals can be shared by up to seven people, similar to the Hanafi view.
Ownership of Wealth: In the case of Zakat, wealth should be in custody for a complete lunar year, but for Sacrifice, the requirement is set on the days of Eid ul Adha.
How Many Qurbani per Family?
According to the Hanafi school of thought, anyone obligated to perform Qurbani in the household must perform at least one Qurbani each. One Qurbani is equivalent to one sheep or goat, while a large animal such as a cow/buffalo/camel is enough Qurbani for seven people.
How is Qurbani Offered?
Performing Qurbani on Eid ul Adha involves different steps and requires specific prayers and intentions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to offer Qurbani.
Intention (Niyyah): Begin by sincerely intending (niyyah) to perform Qurbani for the sake of Allah (SWT).
Choosing the Animal: Select a healthy animal for sacrifice.
Sharpening the Knife: Ensure the knife is sharp to minimize the animal’s suffering.
Laying the Animal: The animal should be laid on its left side, facing the Qibla (the direction of the Kaaba). The person performing the sacrifice should also face the Qibla.
Dua: It is recommended to recite the following supplication (Dua) before the sacrifice:
Takbeer: Recite “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah (SWT), Allah Almighty is the Greatest) just before slaughtering the animal.
Slaughtering the Animal: Use a fast, strong motion to cut the animal’s throat, windpipe, and the blood vessels in the neck. Avoid cutting the spinal cord.
Utilization of the Animal: The skin and other parts of the animal can be utilized or donated. It is prohibited to sell any part of the Qurbani animal, as the entire sacrifice should be for the sake of Allah (SWT).
Following these steps and prayers ensures that Islamic guidelines perform the Qurbani.
When Does Qurbani Start?
The Qurbani should be performed after the Eid ul Adha prayer on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. It’s preferable to perform the sacrifice on the first day (the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah).
How Much is Qurbani per Person?
The cost of Qurbani per person in 2024 can vary based on several factors, including the type of animal and the country in which it is being offered. It’s important to note that the prices can vary, and it’s advisable to check for the most current rates as the time for Qurbani approaches.
Who is Eligible to Receive Qurbani?
The eligibility to receive Qurbani meat on Eid ul Adha is based on certain criteria:
Needy and People with low income: Those who are in financial need and do not have sufficient means to support themselves and their families are eligible to receive Qurbani meat. This includes:
- Orphans
- Widows
- Homeless individuals
- Refugees
- The needy
Friends and Relatives: Friends and relatives can also receive Qurbani meat to strengthen social bonds and share the blessings of Eid.
Neighbors: Sharing Qurbani meat with neighbors, regardless of their financial status, is encouraged to foster community spirit and goodwill.
What are the Restrictions for Qurbani?
The restrictions for Sacrifice on Eid ul Adha are specific to ensure Islamic principles carry out the sacrifice. Here are the guidelines:
Age Requirements:
- Sheep and goats should be at least one year old to be eligible for Qurbani.
- Cows, bulls, and buffalo should be at least two years old.
- Camels should be at least five years old.
Health Requirements:
- The Qurbani animals must be healthy and free of disease.
- They must be moderately thin or lean.
- Animals must be able to walk themselves to the site of the slaughter.
- They cannot be toothless or missing over half their teeth.
- They must not be blind or one-eyed.
- Animals should not be pregnant, have serious illnesses, or have broken limbs.
These guidelines ensure that the Sacrifice is performed respectfully and ethically, honoring the tradition and the spirit of giving during the Eid-ul-Adha festival.
How to Distribute Qurbani Meat?
The distribution of Qurbani meat is an important aspect of the sacrifice and should be done according to Islamic guidelines.
The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts:
- One-third of the family
- One-third for friends and relatives
- One-third of people with low incomes and needy
What Makes the Qurbani Invalid?
As mentioned above, Qurbani must be performed within three days of Eid ul Adha to be valid. The defects that invalidate the Qurban include one-sided blindness, obvious blindness, illness, obvious pain, a limp, obvious lameness, or being very old to the point where they lack bone marrow. On the other hand, two defects are considered makruh: part or all of the ears being cut off or broken horns.
Can You Give Qurbani to a Dead and Living Person?
It’s generally okay to perform Qurbani for someone else, for both dead and living persons.
The deceased’s wasiyyah states that they want to offer udhiyah after their death. The Hanafi school generally offers Qurbani on behalf of deceased individuals. It is seen as a beneficial act that can bring rewards to both the deceased and the person performing the sacrifice.
Different Islamic schools have different opinions, but they agree that you should do your own Qurbani first before doing it for someone else. Also, make sure the person you’re doing it for hasn’t already done it themselves unless they’re deceased or unable to.
Can a Woman Do Qurbani?
Yes, a woman can perform Qurbani. Islamic teachings allow individuals to participate in Qurbani as long as they are of sound mind and possess the financial means to do so. Women are equally obliged to perform Qurbani if their wealth reaches the Nisab threshold, which is the minimum amount required for a Muslim to be eligible to perform Qurbani.
Can I Pay for Qurbani with My Zakat or Sadaqah?
No, Qurbani cannot be paid with Zakat or Sadaqah. Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah, is a specific type of sacrifice that is an obligation for those who can afford it. It must be performed during the days of Eid al-Adha. It is distinct from Zakat and Sadaqah, which are separate forms of charity in Islam.
Zakat is a mandatory act of charity for all eligible Muslims and is calculated based on one’s wealth. Sadaqah is a voluntary charity of compassion, love, friendship, religious duty, or generosity. Both are meant to purify one’s wealth and help people with low incomes and who are in need.
Qurbani, on the other hand, is an obligation for all sane adult Muslims who possess the Nisab threshold of wealth.
When is Qurbani 2024?
Qurbani for Eid al-Adha 2024 will take place over three days. The specific dates depend on the sighting of the moon, but Eid al-Adha 2024 is expected to begin on the evening of Sunday, June 16th. Therefore, Qurbani will be observed on Monday, June 17th, Tuesday, June 18th, and Wednesday, June 19th.
Conclusion
Sacrifice on Eid ul Adha is essential in Islam because it’s a way to show our obedience and love for Allah (SWT). When we sacrifice an animal during Eid al-Adha, we remember how Prophet Ibrahim (RA) was ready to sacrifice his son Hazrat Isma’il (RA) because Allah (SWT) asked him to. It teaches us to trust and obey Allah Almighty.
According to Islam, when we perform Qurbani, it’s crucial to understand why we’re doing it and to do it the right way. That means doing it sincerely, following all the rules, and thinking about community members who need help.
So, when you do Qurbani, remember it’s not just a ritual. It’s a way to get closer to Allah (SWT) and each other. Let’s do it respectfully, knowing why we’re doing it and with a promise to help those around us. That way, we’ll feel the spiritual and community benefits even more.
