Qurbani (Udhiyyah) at Eid al-Adha means the “sacrifice of an animal” and is a practice deep in Islamic tradition. But Qurbani is more than symbolic, it’s a ritual steeped in spirituality with well-defined Islamic rulings. This piece outlines the vital rules, conditions, and responsibilities to ensure your sacrifice complies with Islamic law.
Who Must Offer Qurbani?
Qurbani is wajib (obligatory) by the Hanafi school, and Sunnah mu’akkadah (emphasized sunnah) by the others.
You must offer Qurbani if:
- You are a Muslim.
- You are of sound mind and mature (baligh).
- You have nisab and other requirements for Eid days.
- You are not a traveler (muqeem).
That is per eligible person in the household, not one for the entire household.
When Is Qurbani Performed?
- Dates: 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah (after Eid prayer).
- Time: not before the Eid salaah at least, making a sacrifice before the salaah is not valid.
It is preferable to do it earlier and not delay to the second day, and not the third.
Which Animals Are Permitted?
For Islam, the following are acceptable:
- Goat or Sheep – 1 animal = 1 person’s Qurbani.
- Cow or Buffalo – 1 animal = up to 7 people can share.
- Camel – 1 animal = up to 7 people can share.
Animal Conditions:
- Healthy and free of abnormal conditions (e.g, blinding eye, lameness, or sickness).
- Minimum age: Goat/Sheep: 1 year, Cow/Buffalo: 2 years, Camel: 5 years.
- Underage and/or sick animals cannot be used for Qurbani.
Distribution of Meat:
The Qurbani meat is to be shared in three shares as follows:-
- For your household.
- For relatives and friends.
- For the poor and needy.
Sharing is the Sunnah, even if giving all to the poor is permitted.
Can Money Be Donated Instead of Sacrificing?
No, Qurbani cannot be the animal sacrifice itself. Forwarding money to a charity for them to perform your Qurbani is only valid if the animal is slaughtered and distributed on your behalf.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Offering a sacrifice before the Eid prayer.
- Selecting animals that are not in good health or are too young to travel.
- Not having a niyyah.
- Omitting the takbeer at the time of slaughter.
- Considering Qurbani as a mere ritual, devoid of the feeling and sincerity of ibadah.
Conclusion
Qurbani isn’t just a sacrifice, it’s a test of submission, a demonstration of sincerity, and a manifestation of mercy. By preserving the right etiquette and essence, we not only uphold the practice of Ibrahim (AS) but also incur blessings to our homes and society.
“So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].”
(Surah Al-Kawthar 108:2)
