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Qurbani Appeal

Qurbani is one of the great rituals of Islam, in which we remember the Unity of Allah, His blessings upon us and the obedience of our Father Ibraaheem to his Lord, and in this act of Qurbani, there is much goodness and blessing. So Muslims must pay attention to its great importance. The following is a brief look at this important ritual.

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani refers to the animal (camel, cattle or sheep) that is sacrificed as an act of worship to Allah, in the country in which the person offering the sacrifice lives, during the period from after the Eid prayer on the Day of Nahr (Eid al-Adha) until the last of the Days of Tashreeq (the 13th day of Dhu’l-Hijjah), with the intention of offering sacrifice. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only).”

[al-Kawthar 108:2]

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘Verily, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinns and all that exists).”

[al-An’aam 6:162]

“And for every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they may mention the Name of Allah over the beast of cattle that He has given them for food. And your God is One God, so you must submit to Him Alone (in Islam)…”

[al-Hajj 22:34]

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Is Qurbani sunnah or obligatory?

Qurbani is a confirmed Sunnah according to the majority of scholars (some scholars say that it is waajib or obligatory; this will be discussed in more detail below).

The basic principle is that it is required at the appointed time from one who is alive on behalf of himself and the members of his household, and he may include in the reward for it whoever he wishes, living or dead. With regard to Qurbani on behalf of one who is dead, if the deceased bequeathed up to one-third of his wealth for that purpose, or included it in his waqf (endowment), then these wishes must be carried out, otherwise, if a person wishes to offer a sacrifice on behalf of someone who has died, this is a good deed and is considered to be giving charity on behalf of the dead.

But the Sunnah is for a man to include the members of his household, living and dead, in his Qurbani, and when he slaughters it, he should say, “Allahumma haadha ‘anni wa ‘an aali bayti (O Allah, this is on behalf of myself and the members of my household” – he does not have to make a separate sacrifice on behalf of every deceased person.

Udhiyah or giving its money in charity?

The scholars agreed that sacrificing the animal and giving its meat in charity is better than giving its value in charity, because the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to make the sacrifice, and he did not do anything but that which is best and most befitting. This is the opinion of Abu Haneefah, al-Shaafa’i and Ahmad.

Virtues of Qurbani and the Best of Qurbani

Significance: Qurbani, or the act of sacrifice during Eid al-Adha, is a deeply revered practice in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) highlighted its importance, indicating that a sheep can suffice for one man and his household. Larger animals like camels and cows can be shared among seven people.
Best Type of Qurbani: Scholars have varying opinions on the best type of Qurbani. Some prioritize camels and cattle for their size and cost, suggesting they offer more reward, while others prefer sheep, noting the Prophet’s frequent practice of sacrificing them.

Ruling of Qurbani

Obligatory or Sunnah: There is a scholarly debate regarding the ruling of Qurbani. Some scholars, referencing Quranic verses and hadith, consider it wajib (obligatory) for those who can afford it. Others view it as a confirmed Sunnah (sunnah mu’akkadah), though highly recommended and not to be neglected by those who have the means.

Conditions of Qurbani

Age and Condition: The animal must meet specific criteria:
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Age: six months for a lamb, one year for a goat, two years for a cow, and five years for a camel.
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Health: It should be free from major defects like obvious illness, lameness, or emaciation.
Timing: The sacrifice should be performed after the Eid prayer until sunset on the last day of Tashreeq (13th Dhu’l-Hijjah).
Distribution of Meat: It is encouraged to divide the meat into three parts:
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One-third for the family.
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One-third for friends and neighbours.
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One-third for the poor and needy.

Things to Avoid in Dhul-Hijjah

Personal Grooming: Muslims intending to perform Qurbani should not cut their hair or nails from the beginning of Dhu’l-Hijjah until the sacrifice is completed. This practice reflects a state of dedication similar to the ihram of pilgrims, showing respect and humility towards Allah.

Qurbani is not only a significant religious duty but also a means to demonstrate gratitude to Allah, share blessings with others, and purify one’s wealth and soul.