Qurbani is an Arabic word derived from the word “Qurb” which means closeness or nearness. In Islam, Qurbani refers to an act of sacrificing an animal, usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel to attain Allah’s closeness in remembrance of celebrating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah.
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It is performed from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah which are also the days of Eid ul Adha ( One of the two Eid’s Muslims celebrate each year). Qurbani is specially performed on the first day of Eid ul Adha (10th Dhul Hijjah) after Eid’s Namaz.
The act of Qurbani is considered a significant religious obligation for those Muslims only who are financially capable. They demonstrate their willingness to give up something valuable for the sake of Allah and express their gratitude for his blessings.
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Purpose of Qurbani in Islam:
Allah says in Quran:
لَن يَنَالَ ٱللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَآؤُهَا وَلَـٰكِن يَنَالُهُ ٱلتَّقْوَىٰ مِنكُمْ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ سَخَّرَهَا لَكُمْ لِتُكَبِّرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَىٰكُمْ ۗ وَبَشِّرِ ٱلْمُحْسِنِينَ
Translation by Mufti Taqi Usmani,
“It is neither their flesh nor their blood that reaches Allah, but what does reach Him is the taqwā (the sense of obedience) on your part. Thus He has made them (the animals) subjugated to you so that you proclaim Allah’s glory for the guidance He gave you. And give good news to those who are good in their deeds.”
Qurbani’s Purpose emphasizes sharing and caring for the needy. Its division of the meat into three parts, one for the individual performing, one for family and friends, and one for the needy sheds light on the importance of selflessness, generosity, and obedience to Allah. As the meat of Qurbani is distributed among the family members, it strengthens the relationships while distributing it among the poor, helping to providing them with food resources which they can use for several days.
Understanding Qurbani:
Qurbani or the act of sacrifice is also called by the name “Udhiya” whose meaning in Shariah is the “ritual sacrifice” of animals specified for the sacrifice performed on specific days, in certain conditions and with the pure intentions of attaining Allah’s closeness. This means anything else sacrificed on days other than that of Eid ul Adha days for the sake of Allah does not count as Udhiya. The act of Qurbani can be performed on the 10th day of Dhul Hajj until sunset on 13th.
Qurbani’s concept revolves around many key principles.
- It shows the submission, and devotion of Muslims to Allah’s commands, just as Prophet Ibrahim (SAW) got ready to sacrifice his son without having any second thoughts.
- It highlights acknowledgment and appreciation of selflessness and compassion toward others
- Is a medium of expressing gratitude for Allah’s blessings and willingness to sacrifice for the pursuit of righteousness
- Muslims are reminded of the virtue of sacrifice, generosity, and the importance of fulfilling religious obligations
- lays emphasis on the importance of charity and compassion towards others, especially the needy.
Historical background of Qurbani:
The history of Qurbani is rooted in the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah. It happened back in the 2000 BEC in present-day Iraq. Prophet Ibrahim (SAW) had a dream in which Allah commanded him to sacrifice his only son Ismail.
Ismail, who later became a prophet, was a righteous and obedient young man who was dear to Prophet Ibrahim as any father’s son is. However, without having any second thoughts, Prophet Ibrahim narrated his dream to his son. Ismail was as obedient towards Allah as his father and got ready to be sacrificed for Allah’s will.
Ismail lay on the floor with his head touching the ground while Prophet Ibrahim had a sharp knife, and just as they were ready to submit to Allah’s will and carry out the sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram.
The event shows the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail and their willingness to go any further for the sake of their creator.
Eligibility for Qurbani?
Qurbani is a significant religious duty for all Muslims, However, there are certain obligations that are derived from the Islamic teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
In this hadith of Prophet Muhammad, an emphasis on the obligation of Qurbani is seen.
It is stated, “ The son of Adam does not do any action on the day of sacrifice, which is more pleasing to Allah than the shedding of blood. He should do it as a good deed and not as a mere slaughter. He should slaughter the animal and eat it, while he sends a portion to friends and neighbors as a gift.”.
Criteria for those eligible to perform Qurbani:
Qurbani is not obligatory for all Muslims, but only for those who meet the below criteria.
Financial Eligibility:
Only those Muslims who possess wealth beyond their basic needs, savings, and debts are eligible to perform Qurbani.
Age Requirement:
An individual must have reached the age of Puberty to be eligible for performing Qurbani
Physical Capabilities:
Individuals who are perfectly fit mentally and physically are required to perform the act of sacrifice. Those who are ill, or elderly can have an exemption.
Time:
Qurbani or Udhiya can only be performed during the three days of Eid al Adha, after the completion of Eid prayer. Sacrifice before that would not be counted as “Udhiya or Qurbani”.
By adhering to the criteria mentioned above, Muslims express their devotion to Allah, recall the Prophet Ibrahim’s spirit and share the blessing of the occasion with others through acts of Kindness and Charity.
Nisab of Qurbani 2024:
The Nisab of Qurbani is equivalent to
Using Value of 612.36 grams Silver = £397.41
Using Value of 87.48 grams gold = £4526.43
FAQ’s About Qurbani 2024
Who must Perform Qurbani?
Muslims who are eligible for Zakat are obligated to Perform Qurbani and Muslims who possess wealth greater than their basic needs and are equal to the Nisab of Qurbani
What is the minimum age requirement for Qurbani?
Any Muslim who has wealth that syncs with the Qurbani’s nisab and is of mature age is eligible to perform Qurbani.
How is the meat of Qurbani divided?
The Qurbani’s meat is divided into three equal portions. One portion is for the one who is performing Qurbani, one is for friends and family, and one is for the less fortunate (needy or poor).
Conclusion:
Qurbani is one of the most sacred religious duties in Islam and is celebrated by Muslims with great devotion. Anyone who is eligible for Qurbani should perform it. It is not only a religious duty, but it comes with plenty of rewards.
You can also put your share of Qurbani with QuranHost. Its staff and teachers belong to needy families, therefore, Team QuranHost mission is to help them and up to 500 deserving families this Eid ul Adha 2024.
Eid ul Adha is a great opportunity to help distribute Qurbani’s meat to the needy. Put your share in now and help us reach the families who need our help at this time.