What is Eid ul-Adha?

Eid ul-Adha Sacrificial Animal (Qurbani)

1. What is Qurbani (Sacrifice)?

Qurbani is the ritual animal sacrifice performed by Muslims during Eid ul-Adha. It honors the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was ready to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. In his place, Allah sent a ram, establishing the tradition of sacrifice. This act symbolizes devotion, submission, and the spirit of giving, as the meat is shared among family, friends, and the needy.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“The son of Adam does not do any action on the Day of Sacrifice more beloved to Allah than the shedding of blood.”
— [Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1493 – Sahih]

2. Quranic Reference for Qurbani

Allah commands the practice of sacrifice in the Quran, saying: “And for every nation, We have appointed a rite [of sacrifice] that they may mention the name of Allah over what He has provided for them.” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:34) This verse highlights the importance of Qurbani as a universal practice and a way to remember Allah’s blessings.

3. Hadith on the Importance of Qurbani

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the obligation of Qurbani, saying: “Whoever is able to offer the sacrifice but does not do it, let him not approach our prayer place.” (Sunan Ibn Majah) This hadith shows how critical Qurbani is as part of the Eid celebration and an expression of obedience to Allah.

4. Animals Eligible for Qurbani

The following animals are valid for sacrifice:

Sheep/Goat: At least 1 year old
Cow/Bull: At least 2 years old
Camel: At least 5 years old

Animals must be healthy and free of defects.

5. Who is Eligible for Qurbani?

Qurbani is wajib (obligatory) on every adult Muslim who is sane, free, and possesses wealth equal to or more than the Nisab threshold on the days of Eid ul-Adha. This includes men and women who meet the financial criteria, even if Hajj is not obligatory upon them. Children are not required to perform Qurbani, but parents may do it on their behalf. Conditions for eligibility include: ● Muslim ● Adult (has reached puberty) ● Sane ● Owner of wealth equal to or above Nisab ● Not in debt that reduces their wealth below Nisab If these conditions are met on any of the three days (10th–12th Dhul Hijjah),

6. Who is Obligated to Perform the Sacrificial Animal (Qurbani)?

Qurbani becomes obligatory (wājib) on every adult Muslim who meets the following conditions during the days of Eid ul-Adha: 1. They are sane and mature (have reached the age of puberty). 2. They are not traveling — Qurbani is not obligatory on a traveler. 3. They own wealth above the Nisab threshold after fulfilling basic needs and debts. 4. The wealth is possessed during any of the Qurbani days (10th to 12th Dhul Hijjah). This means, even if someone is not working or earning but has savings or assets above the Nisab, Qurbani becomes wajib upon them. 📖 Hadith Reference: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Whoever has the capacity and does not offer the sacrifice, let him not approach our place of prayer.” — Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3123 (Authentic)

7. What Five Things Are Considered in the Nisab for Qurbani?

For Qurbani to become obligatory, a Muslim must possess wealth that meets or exceeds the Nisab threshold. The following five types of assets are considered when calculating this:
1. Gold – Personal gold not used for daily wear.

2. Silver – Stored silver in any form.

3. Cash – Money held in hand, bank, or accounts.

4. Business Goods – Items kept for sale or trade.

5. Extra Assets – Any valuable belongings beyond basic needs (e.g., extra land, jewelry).

Note: Essential needs like your home, basic clothing, vehicle for daily use, and tools for work are not included in this calculation.

If the total value of these five categories reaches the Nisab, Qurbani becomes wajib (obligatory).

8. Nisab for Qurbani (Sacrifice Obligation Threshold)

To be obligated to perform Qurbani, a Muslim must be a Sahib-e-Nisab, meaning they possess wealth above a specific threshold after fulfilling their basic needs. This condition ensures that Qurbani is required only for those who can afford it without hardship. The Nisab amount can be calculated based on either gold or silver. Silver Nisab: ● 612.36 grams ● Approximate value: £0.65 per gram ● Total: £397.41 Gold Nisab: ● 87.48 grams ● Approximate value: £51.70 per gram ● Total: £4,526.43 If a person’s net savings and assets (excluding daily necessities) equal or exceed either of these values, Qurbani becomes wajib (obligatory) upon them during Eid ul-Adha.

9. Timeframe for Qurbani (Sacrifice)

Qurbani must be performed during specific days of Eid ul-Adha to be valid. The time begins after the Eid prayer on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah (the first day of Eid) and continues until sunset on the 12th day of Dhul Hijjah. Some scholars allow it until the 13th day before sunset but the preferred period is these three days. Sacrificing before Eid prayer on the 10th is not valid as Qurbani. Performing Qurbani on the first day of Eid is especially recommended, but it remains permissible and rewarded during the following two days.

10. Distribution of Qurbani Meat

The meat should be divided into three equal parts:
One-third for the family
One-third for relatives
and friends One-third for the poor and needy
Quran: “Eat of them and feed the contented and the beggar in need.” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:36)

11. Important Etiquettes of Qurbani

1.Intention (Niyyah):

The most important aspect of Qurbani is to have a sincere intention. Perform the sacrifice purely to seek Allah’s pleasure and follow His command. The reward depends on the purity of your Niyyah, so avoid showing off or doing it for social recognition.

2. Selecting the Animal:

Choose an animal that is healthy, free from defects or diseases, and meets the minimum age criteria. The animal should be strong and well-fed, as the sacrifice represents respect and gratitude to Allah.

3. Method of Slaughter:

The animal should be laid down facing the Qiblah (direction of prayer). Using a sharp knife, swiftly cut the throat, windpipe, and jugular veins while saying “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” to invoke Allah’s name and seek His blessings.

4. Blood Flow:

Make sure the blood is drained completely from the animal’s body. This is important for both religious and health reasons and shows proper respect for the sacrifice.

5. Distribution of Meat:

Divide the meat into three parts: one-third for your family to eat, one-third for relatives and friends as a gift, and one-third for the poor and needy to help those less fortunate in the community.

12. Performing Qurbani on Behalf of Others

1. For a Living Person:

You can perform Qurbani on behalf of another living person, but you must have their explicit permission. This is often done for family members who cannot perform it themselves.

2. For the Deceased:

Offering Qurbani on behalf of deceased relatives is highly recommended and acts as Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity). It brings ongoing rewards for the departed soul and benefits the community.

Conclusion

Eid ul Adha and the Qurbani sacrifice symbolize submission, faith, and charity in Islam. By following the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, Muslims renew their spiritual commitment and foster social solidarity. May Allah accept all our sacrifices and grant us sincerity and piety. Ameen.