Qurbani, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice, is an important religious observance in Islam. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael), as an act of obedience to Allah. According to Islamic tradition, just as Ibrahim was about to sacrifice his son, Allah intervened and provided a ram as a substitute.

Qurbani is an act of worship and charity performed during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, specifically on the 10th, 11th, and 12th days. These days are known as the days of Eid al-Adha and are considered the holiest days of the year for Muslims.

Qurbani is compulsory (wajib) for Muslims who meet specific criteria. The obligation to perform Qurbani falls upon those who are financially capable, meaning they possess the minimum required wealth known as Nisab. The Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth that a person must possess after deducting their debts and essential expenses.

The individuals for whom Qurbani is compulsory include:

– Adult Muslims who are mentally sound and have reached the age of puberty.
– Those who possess the Nisab amount of wealth that remains after deducting debts and necessary expenses.
– Individuals who are not in debt beyond their capacity to repay.
– People who are not dependent on others for their essential needs.
– It’s important to note that Qurbani is not obligatory for children, individuals who do not possess the required wealth, and those who are unable to perform it due to various reasons such as illness, old age, or financial constraints.

The specific timing of Qurbani is during the three days of Eid al-Adha, starting on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, which is known as the Day of Sacrifice. The sacrifice should ideally be performed after the congregational Eid prayer, following the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). However, if circumstances prevent someone from performing it on the 10th, it can be carried out on the 11th or 12th as well.

During Qurbani, Muslims slaughter an animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, in commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. The meat of the sacrificed animal is then divided into three parts: one-third is kept for the family, one-third is shared with friends and neighbors, and one-third is donated to the less fortunate and needy.

Qurbani serves as a means of expressing gratitude, developing empathy, and fulfilling religious obligations while promoting charity and social cohesion within the Muslim community.

Please donate today