Worship (Ibadah)

Qurbānī (Sacrificial Slaughter) Guidelines

Qurbani: The Sacred Act of Sacrifice in Islam

Qurbani – the act of sacrificial slaughter for the sake of Allah – is a profound ritual that lies at the heart of the Islamic faith. Every year, millions of Muslims sacrifice animals in devotion to God, commemorating a story of faith and obedience that dates back to Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). This practice, rich in spiritual symbolism and charity, showcases Islam’s ethos of balanced devotion: a worship that nourishes the soul while being compassionate and beneficial to others. In what follows, we will explore the meaning and origins of Qurbani, its observance during Eid al-Adha and other occasions (like ‘Aqeeqah), relevant Quranic verses and Hadiths, insights from revered scholars, and the wisdom that makes Islam’s view of sacrifice the most humane and uplifting.

Meaning and Origin of Qurbani

The word Qurbani (قربانی) comes from the Arabic “qurban,” which means an offering dedicated to attaining qurb (nearness) to Allah. In Arabic, the practice is often called Udhiyah (أضحية), from a root meaning “sacrifice offered in the morning (duha),” since the main Islamic sacrifice is done during the morning of Eid al-Adha. From the earliest times, offering sacrifices has been a way for believers to demonstrate sincerity and gratitude to their Creator. The Quran reminds us that this practice spans all nations:

“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 of [sacrificial] animals.” (Quran 22:34)

In essence, Qurbani is about giving up something precious purely out of love for Allah. The Arabic term “nusuk” (نُسُك), often translated as “sacrifice” or “offering,” implies any act of worship done to seek Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) explained that the tradition of sacrificing animals as worship is a continuation of the way of Prophet Ibrahim – a legacy of devotion and submission. It is an ancient form of worship recognized in the Quran, the Sunnah (teachings of Prophet Muhammad), and carried on by Muslims to this day.

The Legacy of Prophet Ibrahim’s Sacrifice

No story illustrates the spirit of sacrifice better than that of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son. Ibrahim had long prayed for a child; when his beloved son Isma’il (Ishmael) was granted to him, he faced the ultimate test of faith. Allah commanded Ibrahim in a dream to sacrifice his son – a trial to see if Ibrahim would place Allah’s command above everything else. The Quran vividly recounts this moment of surrender and divine relief:

“And when [his son] was old enough to walk with him, [Abraham] said: ‘O my dear son, I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you. So see, what do you think?’ He said: ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, among the patient.’ Then, when they had both submitted to Allah and he laid him down on his forehead, We called out to him: ‘O Abraham! You have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. This was truly a clear test. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice [instead].” (Quran 37:102–107)

At the critical moment, Allah miraculously spared Isma’il, sending down a ram from heaven to be sacrificed in the boy’s place. Ibrahim’s readiness to give up his most loved one for Allah’s sake became a timeless example of obedience, and the ram’s appearance was a sign of divine mercy. This event is the cornerstone of why Muslims perform Qurbani. It is believed to have taken place in the valley of Mina (near Makkah), and it established the practice of animal sacrifice in lieu of human sacrifice – marking Islam’s rejection of the pre-Islamic practice of human offerings and demonstrating God’s mercy and provision.

Each year, Muslims around the world relive this powerful story during Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice). By sacrificing an animal on this occasion, believers honor the faith of Ibrahim and Isma’il, renew their own commitment to Allah, and celebrate the mercy that replaced a human life with a ram. The phrase “Allahu Akbar” (God is the Greatest) often rings out at the moment of slaughter, just as Ibrahim affirmed that nothing is greater than God, not even one’s own child or self.

Eid al-Adha Qurbani – Practice and Rulings

Eid al-Adha marks the culmination of the Hajj (pilgrimage) season on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. After the special Eid prayer in the morning, Muslims who can afford to do so offer a Qurbani sacrifice. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) established the clear sequence for this day:

“The Prophet (ﷺ) said, ‘The first thing we will do on this day is to pray, then we will return and slaughter our sacrifices. Whoever does so has followed our Sunnah. And whoever slaughtered before the prayer, it is just meat for his family, not a sacrifice.’” - Sahih al-Bukhari

This Hadith underlines that the Eid prayer comes first, and only afterwards should the animal be slaughtered as an act of worship. Sacrificing before the Eid prayer is not counted as the ritual Qurbani at all. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was so emphatic about the importance of this rite that he reportedly said:

“Whoever can afford it but does not offer a sacrifice, let him not come near our prayer place.” - Sunan Ibn Majah

Who Should Perform Qurbani?

Offering the Eid al-Adha sacrifice is highly emphasized for every Muslim adult who is financially able to do so. According to most scholars, it is a strongly recommended Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah – an established practice of the Prophet not to be neglected). The Hanafi school of thought even considers it obligatory (wajib) for anyone who possesses wealth above a certain modest threshold (nisab) during Eid days. In practical terms, if you are eligible to pay Zakat (the annual charity on savings), you are generally considered able to perform Qurbani. Other schools (Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali) classify it as a confirmed Sunnah: not strictly mandatory, but so meritorious that a capable Muslim should not omit it without a valid reason.

Early Muslims treated this sacrifice very seriously. It is narrated that the first two Caliphs, Abu Bakr and ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with them), never once missed performing Qurbani each year, even though they knew it wasn’t fard (absolutely required). This shows the importance they attached to it. As one Companion, Ibn ‘Umar, said: “The Messenger of Allah and the Muslims after him always offered sacrifices.” The consensus of the scholars is that Qurbani is one of the great symbols (sha’a’ir) of Islam – a public act of devotion that carries tremendous reward.

What Animals are Used?

For Qurbani, the animal must be a halal livestock animal – usually a sheep, goat, cow/bull, or camel. The animal should be healthy and of a minimal age (for example, at least one year old for sheep/goats – though a healthy six-month lamb may be acceptable – and at least two years for cattle, five years for camels). It should be free from major defects (blind, severely lame, terminally ill, etc., are not allowed for sacrifice). These conditions ensure that we offer Allah the best of what we have, not a substandard offering.

Each eligible person generally offers one Qurbani. A single sheep or goat counts as one sacrifice on behalf of one individual (or household). Larger animals like cows or camels can be shared – one cow or camel can count for seven shares (meaning up to seven individuals/families can jointly sponsor one cow or camel for Qurbani). The Prophet (peace be upon him) permitted this, especially useful in communities where people pool resources to afford a bigger animal. In one narration, “A camel would serve seven and a cow seven” people’s Qurbani. This teaches flexibility and cooperation in worship.

It is also acceptable in many traditions for one Qurbani (one sheep, for instance) to be offered on behalf of a whole family. Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a Companion of the Prophet, said: “At the time of Allah’s Messenger, a man would sacrifice a sheep for himself and his household, and they would eat from it and give to others.” Whether one sacrifice covers a family or each adult does their own can depend on local custom and school of thought. The key is that a sacrifice is made in each household to remember Allah’s blessing.

How is the Qurbani Performed?

The act of slaughter itself is meant to be carried out with solemn devotion and utmost respect to the animal. The one performing the slaughter (often the head of the household or a qualified butcher) lays the animal gently on its side, facing the Qiblah (direction of Makkah). It is Sunnah to use a very sharp knife to swiftly cut the throat, severing the main blood vessels and windpipe in a single stroke – this causes a quick death with minimal pain. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself would slaughter his sacrifices with his own hand, to fully partake in the worship. Anas ibn Malik relates:

“The Prophet (ﷺ) sacrificed two horned rams, black and white in color. He slaughtered them with his own hands, said ‘Bismillah, Allahu Akbar’ (In the Name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest), and placed his foot on their sides (to steady them).” - Sahih al-Bukhari

Following the Prophetic example, one should recite Bismillahi Allahu Akbar at the moment of sacrifice, acknowledging that life is taken by Allah’s permission and in His name. It is also recommended to utter a prayer such as: “O Allah, this is from You and for You.” In fact, one narration describes the Prophet saying, “O Allah, this is on behalf of Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, and (another) on behalf of my Ummah (community).” This indicates one may intend the reward of a sacrifice for oneself and also loved ones (even the deceased, according to many scholars, as an act of charity).

Division of the Meat

One beautiful aspect of Qurbani is that its benefits are shared widely. The slaughtered animal’s meat is typically divided into three portions: one part for the family offering the sacrifice to enjoy, one part to be distributed among friends and relatives, and one part to be given to the poor and needy. This division is a recommended practice (not an absolute rule, but strongly encouraged by tradition). Allah intended this celebration to be an occasion of feeding others and strengthening community bonds:

“...eat from them and feed the contented poor and the beggar.” (Quran 22:36)

By distributing Qurbani meat, Muslims ensure that even less fortunate neighbors and community members get to taste plentiful meat during the Eid days. In many places, organized efforts are made so that Qurbani meat reaches remote or impoverished communities. This charitable dimension means Qurbani is not only a personal act of worship but also a social service – spreading joy and nutrition. Our mother Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) once observed that after a sacrifice almost nothing was left at home because so much was given away. The Prophet (peace be upon him) smiled and told her that in reality every bit given in charity remains (in reward) with Allah:

Aisha said: “Nothing remains of it except the shoulder.” The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “All of it remains except the shoulder (meaning, what you give in charity is what truly lasts).” - Sunan al-Tirmidhi

This poignant exchange underlines the spirit of Qurbani: the physical meat may leave our hands, but its reward with Allah is everlasting.

Other Types of Sacrifice in Islam

While Eid al-Adha is the most prominent occasion, Islam also encourages sacrifice in other contexts as acts of devotion and thanksgiving. Two notable forms are ‘Aqeeqah and general voluntary sacrifices.

‘Aqeeqah (Newborn Sacrifice): In Islam, when a child is born it is Sunnah for the parents to offer a special sacrifice out of gratitude to Allah. This is called ‘aqeeqah. Typically, two goats or sheep are sacrificed for a baby boy and one for a baby girl, usually on the seventh day after birth (or soon after). The meat is then distributed among family, friends, and the poor, just like in Qurbani. The Prophet (peace be upon him) performed ‘aqeeqah for his grandsons Hasan and Husain, and taught:

“Every child is in pledge for his ‘Aqeeqah which should be slaughtered on his behalf on the seventh day, and on that day his hair is shaved and he is given a name.” - Hadith (Ahmad, Abu Dawud)

This means the ‘aqeeqah is a way of thanking Allah for the newborn and protecting the child – it is as if the child’s well-being is interceded for by this sacrifice. The shaving of the baby’s head and giving in charity equal to the weight of the hair in silver are also part of the newborn traditions, symbolizing purification and sharing blessings. Though ‘aqeeqah is not obligatory, it is a beloved Sunnah and carries spiritual benefits for the family and child.
Nafl (Voluntary) Sacrifices: Beyond prescribed rituals, a Muslim may offer an animal sacrifice voluntarily at other times, purely to seek Allah’s pleasure or to give charity. For example, a person might vow: “If Allah blesses me with success in this endeavor, I will sacrifice a goat for His sake and distribute the meat to the poor.” Fulfilling such a vow (nadhr) becomes necessary once the condition is met. Even without a vow, one might slaughter an animal on a happy occasion or simply to feed those in need. This is a permissible and reward-worthy act of charity (though not a requirement). The only times Islam forbids sacrifice are if done for false gods or superstition – any slaughter must be in the name of Allah alone to be lawful.
Sacrifice during Hajj: Pilgrims performing the Hajj also engage in animal sacrifice as part of certain rites. Those who perform the Tamattu’ or Qiran types of Hajj (combining ‘Umrah with Hajj) are required to slaughter a hady (sacrificial animal) in Mecca/Mina during Hajj. This is separate from the Eid al-Adha Qurbani that non-pilgrims do, but it coincides on the same days and is done in commemoration of Ibrahim as well. The Quran mentions this in the context of Hajj: “Whoever performs the visit (‘Umrah) then the pilgrimage (Hajj), let him offer whatever sacrifice is easy to obtain…” (2:196). If a pilgrim cannot afford an animal, fasting is prescribed instead. This again highlights that the point is devotion to Allah, not merely the act of slaughter itself.

Historically, there was also a practice called ‘Atirah (or Rajab sacrifice) in pre-Islamic Arabia – an offering in the month of Rajab – and Fara’, the sacrifice of a firstborn camel. Islam abolished any sacrifices based on superstition or tied to idols. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “There is no Fara’ and no ‘Atirah in Islam.” Instead, our faith focuses on the sacrifices clearly sanctioned by Allah: those that uphold monotheism, gratitude, and charity.

Whether it is Eid al-Adha’s Qurbani or an ‘Aqeeqah for a newborn, all these acts share a common purpose: to draw nearer to Allah by giving up something valuable, and to share Allah’s blessings with others. Each sacrifice is accompanied by remembrance of Allah’s name and usually by distributing meat in a way that spreads goodwill. Thus, sacrifice in Islam is never a selfish or empty ritual; it is rooted in devotion and wrapped in care for community.

Compassion and Balance in Islamic Sacrifice

Islam’s perspective on animal sacrifice is uniquely balanced and humane. It neither treats the practice as a bloodthirsty ritual nor abolishes the deep human impulse to offer something meaningful to the Creator. Instead, Islam channels this impulse in a controlled, compassionate manner that benefits both the soul and society. Several points illustrate how Islam makes Qurbani a model of ethical conduct and spiritual purpose:

Not Blood, But Piety: The Quran unequivocally clarifies that the value of sacrifice lies not in blood or flesh reaching God – for God has no need of these – but in the sincerity of the worshipper. In a powerful verse, Allah says:

“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you.” (Quran 22:37)

As classical scholars like Ibn Kathir have commented, this verse shifts our focus to the intention and God-consciousness (taqwa) behind the act. We do not “feed” God with offerings as some ancient cultures imagined; rather, the act is a vehicle to feed our own souls with righteousness and obey Allah’s command. This understanding makes the sacrifice a deeply personal act of devotion, empty of superstition. One contemporary scholar wrote, “Sacrifice in Islam is not a bloody feast, but a conscious, selfless offering in His name of something we value, to affirm that Allah’s command comes before our desires.”
Kindness to Animals: Islam teaches mercy toward all living creatures, and the rules of slaughter emphasize minimizing pain and distress. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Allah has ordained excellence (ihsan) in everything. So when you kill, kill well; and when you slaughter, slaughter well. Let each one of you sharpen his blade and let him spare suffering to the animal.” - Sahih Muslim

This Prophetic instruction makes it clear that even at the moment of sacrifice, care must be taken to be as gentle and swift as possible. The animal should be well-rested, fed, and given water; it must not be slaughtered in view of another animal; and the knife should be extremely sharp to ensure a quick cut. Causing undue pain or tormenting the animal is strictly forbidden. There are famous stories of the Prophet reprimanding people who were cruel or careless with animals. In one case, seeing a man dragging a sheep to slaughter by its ear, the Prophet said, “Drive it humanely, O man!” In another instance, he scolded someone who sharpened his knife in front of the animal, saying, “Do you want to kill it twice?” These teachings long preceded modern animal welfare standards and show that Islam calls for compassion even in sacrifice. The animal is treated with dignity, as a creation of Allah that is giving its life by His permission.
No Human Sacrifice – Sanctity of Life: Islam categorically forbids offering human beings in sacrifice – a practice that tragically existed in some ancient cultures. The story of Ibrahim’s ram dramatically taught that Allah does not desire human blood; in fact, one of the core objectives of Islamic law is the preservation of life. The Quran states, “Whoever kills a soul – it is as if he had slain all humanity” (5:32). By replacing Isma’il with a ram, Allah demonstrated that the only sacrifice required of humans is the sacrifice of our egos, desires, or worldly attachments when they conflict with Allah’s command. We may be asked to sacrifice wealth, time, or certain pleasures for the sake of what is right – but never to commit unjust violence. In this way, Islam stands in stark contrast to ideologies that either demanded barbaric offerings or, on the other extreme, claim that any killing (even for food) is evil. The Islamic stance is middle and just: taking life for nourishment or sincere worship is permitted with strict conditions, but wanton killing or sacrificing life without Allah’s sanction is a grave sin.
Sharing and Social Welfare: As highlighted earlier, Qurbani has a significant charitable aspect. It is designed so that no one goes hungry during Eid. The festival is not a private affair for the rich to enjoy lavish meals; it is a communal celebration where the poor have an equal share. In the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him), he even instructed Muslims at one point not to store meat beyond three days so that those in need could be fed (later, when poverty was less acute, he allowed keeping it longer, but the spirit of generosity remained). Modern humanitarian scholars like Yusuf al-Qaradawi have noted that Qurbani plays a role in food security for impoverished regions – many charitable organizations distribute Qurbani meat as a protein source in famine or refugee areas. Thus, the Islamic sacrifice is balanced by generosity: it feeds one’s devotion to God while feeding the hungry among mankind.
Spiritual Reflection: The act of sacrifice is also meant to cultivate humility and gratitude. When a Muslim personally participates in slaughtering or at least witnesses it, it is an impactful reminder of the value of life and the blessings we normally take for granted. It reminds us that the food we eat comes at the cost of a life given by Allah. This should inspire greater thankfulness to God and avoidance of wastefulness. Many scholars mention that watching the Qurbani should soften a believer’s heart, making them remember the sacrifice of Imam Ibrahim and the ultimate sacrifice we all must be ready for: submitting our own will to Allah’s will. In a sense, the outward sacrifice symbolizes an inner sacrifice – killing our pride, greed, or anything that holds us back from true faith. As Imam Al-Ghazali (a great classical scholar) taught, the external act of slaughtering an animal, if done with the correct mindset, helps slay the animalistic vices within the human soul, such as selfishness and heedlessness.

In sum, Islam’s view of sacrifice is one of profound balance. It preserves an ancient rite of worship but purifies it from cruelty and superstition. The result is a practice that is spiritually uplifting and ethically responsible. As Muslims, we believe that Allah is Ar-Rahman (Most Merciful) and Al-Hakim (Most Wise), and the institution of Qurbani reflects both His mercy and wisdom. It is merciful in how the sacrifice is carried out and who benefits from it, and wise in what it teaches us about devotion, discipline, and duty to others.

Scholarly Insights and Differences of Opinion

Over the centuries, Muslim scholars – from the Companions of the Prophet to classical jurists and modern thinkers – have provided guidance on Qurbani’s virtues and finer points. While the core meaning of the practice is agreed upon, there have been some differences in interpretation, especially regarding how obligatory it is. Here is a brief comparison of views among the major Islamic schools and some notable scholarly comments:

On the Ruling (Obligation vs. Recommendation): As mentioned, the Hanafi school holds Qurbani to be wajib (required) for every sane, adult Muslim who can afford it on Eid al-Adha. In contrast, the Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali schools classify it as a highly encouraged Sunnah. They argue that the Prophet (peace be upon him) never explicitly said it is fard (obligatory) on every individual, citing a hadith where he said “whoever wants to offer a sacrifice may do so” – indicating choice. However, all schools emphasize the importance: even those calling it Sunnah say it is so emphasized that one is blameworthy for neglecting it without excuse. Shaykh Ibn Taymiyah pointed out that it is one of Islam’s great rituals and leaned toward it being mandatory if one has the means, aligning with the spirit of the hadith in Ibn Majah (about not coming to prayer without having sacrificed if able). Renowned modern scholar Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen summarized, “Udhiyah is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah for those able. A person should not abandon it if Allah has given them provision.” In practical terms, a devout Muslim strives to perform Qurbani every year, as a token of gratitude for Allah’s provision.
On One Sacrifice Sufficing for a Household: Scholars also discuss whether one sacrifice can cover an entire family. The prevailing view, supported by hadith evidence, is yes – one sheep/goat can be on behalf of a man and his household. The Prophet (peace be upon him) himself at times offered a single animal for his whole family. Therefore, a husband and wife with children may offer just one animal together and it counts for all of them. Hanafis, however, due to considering it obligatory per person, recommend each adult who meets the criteria should offer their own Qurbani (or at least multiple shares in a larger animal). There is harmony in practice: many families do give one sheep per eligible member if they can, as an extra act of devotion, but it’s not a hard requirement according to others. Imam Malik is quoted to encourage at least one sacrifice per family unit to avoid burden. Ultimately, the goal is that every Muslim home partakes in the remembrance and blessing of sacrifice, whether through one goat or several. No household that can afford it should skip having a Qurbani on Eid.
Virtues and Spiritual Benefits: Countless scholars have written about the merits of Qurbani. It is reported in Hadith (collected by Tirmidhi, graded hasan) that the Prophet said no deed done on Eid al-Adha is more beloved to Allah than the sacrifice. It is further mentioned, “The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns, hair, and hooves (weighing in as good deeds), and the blood of the sacrifice is accepted by Allah even before it falls to the ground. So let your hearts be content (rejoice) in it.” This beautiful saying (from A’ishah, the Prophet’s wife) has been cited by scholars like Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalani to encourage Muslims to seize the opportunity of Qurbani. They explain that every part of the animal given for Allah’s sake will testify for the person and earn them reward. Imam al-Shafi’i, when seeing the price of sacrificial animals rise due to demand, remarked that it is an investment in the hereafter which Allah surely recompenses, so one should not be stingy in buying a good animal.
Commentary by Scholars: Classical commentators such as Imam Ibn Kathir and Imam ar-Razi, on verse 22:37 quoted above, note that Allah wants “purity of heart and intention” in sacrifice, not flesh. They also highlight that sacrifices are meant to commemorate Allah’s name (“mention the name of Allah over what He provided them” – Quran 22:34), meaning it’s a demonstration of tawheed (Oneness of God). Imam Al-Ghazali in his writings emphasized the need for the person offering the sacrifice to reflect on Ibrahim’s trial and to be willing to “sacrifice” any personal idols (be it wealth, status, or ego) to attain Allah’s pleasure. In modern times, scholars like Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani have written that “Qurbani revives the lesson of total submission to Allah’s will. We slaughter our lower passions symbolically as we shed the blood of the animal.” Many also underline the social wisdom: Dr. Yasir Qadhi for example notes that Qurbani combines worship of Allah with care for humanity in a single act, calling it “a vivid illustration that piety and charity go hand in hand in Islam.”
Miracles and Anecdotes: Apart from the great miracle of Ibrahim’s ram, scholars sometimes recount how Allah’s blessing accompanies sincere sacrifices. One famous story from the Salaf (early Muslims) tells of a saint who gave away most of his Qurbani meat to the poor and kept very little. That night he dreamt that the few morsels he kept turned to dust, while the portion he gave away became an enormous mountain of nourishing food in the hereafter. While such anecdotes are not from scripture, they echo the hadith of A’ishah above – what we give selflessly is what truly “remains.” There is also the Qur’anic account of Habil and Qabil (Abel and Cain), the sons of Adam, each offering a sacrifice:

“When both of them offered a sacrifice [to Allah], it was accepted from one of them and not accepted from the other. [Cain] said, ‘I will surely kill you.’ [Abel] replied, ‘Allah only accepts from those who have Taqwa (fear of God).’” (Quran 5:27)

Early Muslim commentators mention that Habil’s sincere sacrifice was miraculously consumed by a fire from heaven as a sign of its acceptance, whereas Qabil’s insincere offering remained untouched. This story (also reflected in the Bible) isn’t about Eid al-Adha, but it further reinforces the theme: the purity of intention is what causes a sacrifice to be accepted and blessed. It’s a reminder that jealousy and insincerity ruin one’s deeds, while sincerity elevates even a small act to great heights.

In conclusion, the collective wisdom of scholars, past and present, portrays Qurbani as a multi-faceted ‘ibadah (worship) that tests our obedience, encourages our generosity, and renews our spiritual focus. There might be slight juristic differences in implementation, but the underlying spirit is unanimously agreed: Qurbani is a cherished institution in Islam that every capable Muslim should honor. By following the guidance of knowledgeable scholars and the Prophetic teachings, Muslims ensure their sacrifices meet the standards of compassion and devotion that our faith requires.

Conclusion: Living the Spirit of Sacrifice Today

Qurbani is far more than a ritualistic slaughter – it is a living tradition that instills core Islamic values in each generation. In performing Qurbani, Muslims across the globe join Prophet Ibrahim in declaring that no devotion is too great when done for the sake of Allah. We remind ourselves that our wealth, and indeed our very lives, are gifts entrusted to us by the Almighty, and we should be ready to part with them to uphold truth and goodness. This act of sacrifice, done in the way taught by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), nurtures taqwa (God-consciousness), gratitude, and unity among believers.

In our modern context, the lessons of Qurbani are as relevant as ever. It teaches us generosity in an age of materialism – by giving away a significant portion of prized meat, we learn that sharing with others brings barakah (blessing), not loss. It teaches us mercy in an age of cruelty – by caring for the animal and ensuring a quick, painless slaughter, we uphold kindness even at the moment of taking life for food. It reminds us of faith in an age of doubt – that we submit to Allah’s commands even when we may not fully grasp all the wisdom, trusting that His plan is best. And it cements our identity in an age of confusion – during Eid al-Adha, the global Ummah (community) joins in an act that visibly celebrates Islamic heritage and compassion.

As Muslims approach the act of Qurbani today, we are inspired to do so with sincere hearts and mindful conduct. We should make the intention to please Allah alone, follow the Prophetic etiquette in treating the animal humanely, and distribute the benefits justly among people. One might also use the opportunity to explain to our children and even non-Muslim friends the beautiful reasons why we perform this sacrifice – clearing misconceptions that it is barbaric, by highlighting its spirituality and charity. Indeed, when understood properly, Qurbani inspires admiration for how it strikes a balance between devotion to Allah and service to humanity.

In a famous Quranic passage, Allah directed the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].” (Quran 108:2). This verse links salah (prayer) and sacrifice, indicating that both are pure acts of worship. Just as prayer is an offering of our words and time to remember Allah, Qurbani is an offering of a life and wealth to remember Allah. Both require sincerity and both bring us closer to Him.

May our sacrifices – whether on Eid al-Adha or any day we give of ourselves for Allah’s sake – be accepted and loved by our Lord. As we stand on Eid day, witnessing the Qurbani, let us recall the devotion of Ibrahim, the example of Muhammad, and the needs of the less fortunate around us. The true essence of Qurbani is that submitting to Allah’s will is always goodness itself. With that conviction, a Muslim offers the sacrifice cheerfully, saying Bismillah, Allahu Akbar, knowing that every drop shed in Allah’s name carries the believer’s love upward to the heavens.

Takabbal Allahu minna wa minkum – may Allah accept from us and from you. Eid Mubarak! May the spirit of sacrifice remain with us throughout the year as we strive to live as compassionate, obedient servants of the Most Merciful.