The Islamic calendar is dominated by theEid al-Adha festival of sacrifice, which is second only in importance to Eid al-Fitr. It is observed on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhu al-Hijja, and is referred to as the Greater Eid. The holiday honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S.) commitment to Allah, exemplified by his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail for Allah. It shows how both father and son agreed to Allah’s command, and even the bit of hesitation shown by the father was removed by the son. The Prophet admired his commitment and believed that Allah substituted Ismail with a ram, which was subsequently sacrificed. The sacrifice of an animal, known as Qurbani, is a significant tradition of theEid Al Adha festival of sacrifice. It represents the offering of something cherished to honour and glorify Allah. The meat is apportioned into three equal portions, designated for the individual, family, friends, and the underprivileged. Muslims commemorate this day by gathering with family, wearing new attire, and sharing presents.
Is Qurbani Fard and Who is Eligible for Qurbani?
According to the Hanafi school of thought, Qurbani is deemed Wajib, although other Madhabs such as Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali regard it as Sunnah Mu’akadah and are strongly encouraged. Notwithstanding scholarly disagreements, Qurbani is universally considered obligatory due to its status as a proven Sunnah.
Fard and Wajib are both obligatory actions; however, Fard is justified by the Quran and Sunnah, whilst Wajib is similar but entails a degree of uncertainty.
Adult Muslims of sound mind who own income equal to or exceeding the Nisab amount are eligible for Qurbani. The nisab quantity is defined as 87.48 grams of gold or 612.3 grams of silver or its equal in debt-free riches. You are required to perform Zabihah if your wealth remains unaffected from the Fajr of the 10th Zil Hajj to the sunset of the 12th Zil Hajj. The execution of Udhiya is strongly advised, and Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) warns against neglecting it. Abu Hurairah (RA) reported a hadith from Allah’s Messenger (P.B.U.H) indicating that anybody unable to perform Qurbani should refrain from approaching the Eidgah. Qurbani is not mandatory for Musafir Muslims traveling over 48 miles.
Animals Qualified for Sacrifice
Age
•Sheep/Goats:Must be a minimum of one year of age.
•Cows/buffalo:At least two years old.
•Camels:Required to be a minimum of five years of age.
Health
•Animals must be in good health and clear of transmissible diseases.
•Animals cannot be slender or lean, toothless, blind, one-eyed, and exhibiting weak, lame limbs.
•The animal must be capable of walking to the slaughter location.
•Check signs of animal health, such as vibrant eyes, flawless fur, and strong hunger.
Physical Deficiencies
•Animals must be free of lasting physical problems.
•The Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) recommends selecting the most robust and cherished qurbani animal.
Sacrifice Slaughter
•A sharp knife is employed for Qurbani.
•Knives must not be sharpened in the presence of the sacrificial animal.
•No animal may be slaughtered in the presence of another animal.
•The phrase “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar” must be said during the sacrifice.
Prohibitions Regarding Sacrificial Offerings
•Experts advise against removing any hair, nails, or skin until the sacrifice has been completed.
Choosing the Ideal Animal for Bakra Eid
•Select animals exhibiting a healthy appearance:Observe for vibrant coats, luminous eyes, and vigilant conduct. Refrain from selecting emaciated or ill animals.
•Consider age and size:Mature animals may possess denser flesh. However, younger specimens are favored for their leaner cuts. It is essential to verify the minimum age of an animal before purchasing it as a sacrificial animal.
•Verify the framework:Examine the animal’s optimal anatomical structure and symmetry.
•Maintain cleanliness:Verify that the animal is hygienic and properly groomed.
•Request documentation:Verify that the animal is ethically trained and legally registered.
Rituals of the Qurbani
•Niyah:Make a positive intention(niyah) to offer a sacrifice to Allah.
•Position the animal:Lay the animal on its left side, oriented towards the Qiblah.
•Pronounce the name of Allah:Speak “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” before executing the final cuts.
•Fast and Swift Slaughter:Cut the animal’s throat in a singular motion, severing primary blood vessels while preserving the spinal cord.
•Bleeding:Ensure comprehensive circulation of blood throughout the animal’s body.
•Skinning and Slaughtering:Remove the animal’s skin and execute the slaughter on its preferences and cultural customs.
•Meat Distribution:Partition the meat into three portions by Islamic jurisprudence. Three equal portions: one for family, one for relatives, and one for impoverished Muslims. The core part of it isQurbani donationfor the impoverished.