Answering Your Qurbani Questions: What is Qurbani?

On the Eid al-Adha festival, Qurbani—or Udhiya—is the Islamic act of sacrificing an animal. The honoring of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) for volunteering to give his son as a submission to Allah is quite a religious service. When Allah  replaced Ibrahim’s son with a lamb as a reminder of God’s compassion and reward for obedience, Ibrahim was ready to make the sacrifice.

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani is a sacrificial act in which Muslims sacrifice an authorized animal—that is, a goat, sheep, cow, or camel—in order to meet their religious need and submit to Allah. A religious custom observed during Eid al-Adha, qurbani symbolizes thankfulness, submission, and openness to sharing with other people.

Why Do We Perform Qurbani?

Qurbani becomes compulsory for Muslim adults who satisfy the Nisab requirement — a certain minimal amount of wealth. This means that those having the financial ability to do so are bound to carry out Qurbani. The requirement, however, is not for minors or those struggling financially, but they can at least enjoy the meat.

What Animals Can Be Sacrificed for Qurbani?

The animals that can be used for Qurbani are

• Sheep (one year old and above)

• Goats (one year old and above)

• Cows (two years old and above)

• Camels (five years old and above)

The animals must be healthy, free from any defects, and of the required age. The sacrifice must also be according to proper Islamic rules.

When Does Qurbani Take Place?

Qurbani is carried out on the first three days of Eid al-Adha. The sacrifice should be carried out after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah and until the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.

How is the Meat from qurbani Distributed?

Qurbani meat is generally allocated in three portions of equal amounts

1. One-third to the family – So that the family can use it.

2. One-third for friends and relatives – To share the blessings of Eid with friends and relatives.
3. One-third for the poor and needy –So that even the poor also get an opportunity to rejoice over the blessings of Eid.

This distribution provides a feeling of community, charity, and togetherness.

Can I Perform qurbani on Behalf of Others?

Yes, you can also do the Qurbani in someone else’s name. For instance, you can offer an animal on behalf of a deceased family member, a friend, or anyone who cannot offer it because of illness or financial problems. There are certain organizations available that help to do the Qurbani on behalf of poor individuals across the entire world.

Is Qurbani Mandatory for Everyone?

No, Qurbani is only mandatory for those who meet the Nisab threshold (i.e., those who are financially able). It is highly recommended for those who can afford it, but it is not obligatory for children, the poor, or those who are not financially capable.

What is the Significance of qurbani in Islam?

The importance of qurbani is not only in the physical act of sacrificing an animal but also in the spiritual advantages it has. It represents

• Obedience to Allah: As Prophet Ibrahim was ready to sacrifice his son, Muslims perform Qurbani as a sign of submission to Allah’s will.
• Charity: The meat distribution benefits the poor and needy, and it encourages compassion and unity.
• Purification of Wealth: By distributing a share of the sacrifice, Muslims cleanse their wealth and attain blessings.
• Strengthening Community Ties: Distribution of the meat enhances relationships and strengthens social bonds.

How Do You Choose an Animal for Qurbani?

When selecting an animal for Qurbani, you should make sure

• The animal’s age is as described (as stated above).

• It does not have any defects such as fractured bones, blindness, or illness.

• It is healthy and sound to be sacrificed.

The breed of animal generally rests with individual choice, family size, and financial status.

Can qurbani Be Done in a Different Country?

In fact, it is also possible for Muslims to perform Qurbani in a nation where there is sufficient need, i.e., where hunger and poverty are most prevalent. There are different agencies providing services to perform Qurbani on donors’ behalf in most countries and distribute the meat among the needy and poor where they are in greatest need.

Is it permissible to do Qurbani on behalf of a non-Muslim?

While Qurbani is generally done by Muslims, there are some experts who believe that if the non-Muslim is a close relative (like a parent), it is permissible to do Qurbani on their behalf, especially with the motive to show goodwill and support. However, it is a subject of conflicting views among experts.

Final Thoughts

Qurbani is so much more than a ritual; it is a time for us to reflect on our faith, be submissive to Allah, and make other people blessed. Regardless of whether the act presents itself in the guise of offering an animal or the act of giving, qurbani is a powerful reminder of charity, sacrifice, and community.

As the upcoming festival of Eid al-Adha, we can look forward to the intense religious and societal meaning of qurbani and approach it in all sincerity with devotion and regard.