It was narrated from ’Aishah that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “The son of Adam does not do any deed on the Day of Sacrifice that is dearer to Allah than shedding blood.
It will come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns, cloven hoofs, and hair. Its blood is accepted by Allah before it reaches the ground. So be content when you do it.”
What is the meaning of Qurbani, and what is its story? What are the rules for its distribution? That is what this essay explains.
Qurbani Meaning
Qurbani or Udhiyah, which means slaughtering the sacrifice and donating it to get closer to Allah (SWT), is one of the worship performed by Muslims worldwide every year during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.
Where Muslims slaughter an animal – such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel – during the days of sacrifice on the blessed Eid al-Adha, then distribute its meat to the poor and needy Muslims.
Qurbani Story
The story of Qurbani began when Allah (SWT) wanted to test the faith of His Prophet Ibrahim Al-Khalil (PBUH), as He commanded him to sacrifice his eldest son Ismail (PBUH), so what was Ismail only to accept the orders of Allah.
The story is mentioned in Surat As-Saffat in the words of Allah: [Then when the boy reached the age to work with him, Abraham said, “O my dear son! I have seen in a dream that I ˹must˺ sacrifice you. So tell me what you think.” He replied, “O, my dear father! Do as you are commanded. Allah willing, you will find me steadfast.”] [37:102].
When Allah (SWT) saw this obedience from the father who agreed to slaughter his son, and the son who did not mind, a call came from Allah: [You have already fulfilled the vision.” Indeed, this is how We reward the good-doers.][37:105]. Then, a great ram came down to slaughter him in his place, so it was a ransom on behalf of Ismail and a Sunnah for Muslims to this day.
Qurbani Meat Distribution Rules
There are some rules related to the sacrifice that you should know, from choosing the animal and the method of slaughtering it to distributing the meat.
After slaughtering the animal, it is usually divided into three shares:
- One part for the donor.
- One part is for the donor’s family, friends, or neighbors.
- One part is for the needy and poor.
Qurbani Distribution Rules in Quran
Allah commanded the Muslims to offer the sacrifice and did not prevent them from eating its meat, as a Muslim can feed his family and relatives and give the rest in alms. As Allah (SWT) said in the Holy Quran:
- [so they may obtain the benefits ˹in store˺ for them, and pronounce the Name of Allah on appointed days over the sacrificial animals He has provided for them. So eat from their meat and feed the desperately poor.] [22:28].
- [you may eat from their meat and feed the needy—those who do not beg and those who do.] [22:36].
Qurbani Distribution Rules in Hadith
- Jabir ibn Abdullah said that the Prophet (PBUH) said about Qurbani: “Eat, give sadaqah, provide for yourselves, and store up.”
- It is forbidden to sell any part of the sacrifice because the Prophet (PBUH) said: “Whoever sells the skin of his Udhiyah, there is no Udhiyah for him,” meaning it does not count as a Qurbani sacrifice.
Donate Your Qurbani With SEMA
There are millions of oppressed Muslims residing in refugee camps in poor areas, impatiently awaiting the advent of the blessed Eid Al-Adha, for donations and sacrifices to arrive, as most of them have not tasted meat all year long.
Allah (SWT): [That is so. And whoever honors the symbols of Allah, it is certainly out of the piety of the heart.] [22:32]. So, Our responsibility in the “SEMA” Organization is to deliver sacrifices to those truly deserving.
Don’t hesitate to donate to make hungry children happy; always remember; your Qurbani could be a lifeline for someone in need!
FAQ
Who Can Receive Qurbani Meat?
In “SEMA” organization, we distribute Qurbani meat according to the Sharia rules for the poorest and most needy people, and they include:
Refugees and displaced persons in camps.
Families headed by women.
Widow and orphaned children.
Families who live below the poverty line.
How Many Qurbani Per Family?
The majority of scholars say that it is sufficient for the head of the family to sacrifice one sacrifice on his behalf and for the family members on whom he is spending. Still, According to the Hanafi school of thought, anyone obligated to donate Qurbani in the household must donate a minimum of one Qurbani each.
At What Age is Qurbani Fard?
Most scholars say that the sacrifice is a confirmed Sunnah from the Messenger Muhammad (PBUH), while it is obligatory for the rich according to the Hanafi school of thought, as Allah says: [So pray and sacrifice to your Lord ˹alone˺.] [108:2].
Which Animals Can Be Sacrificed?
The animals that can be sacrificed are those that meet the conditions of the sacrifice, such as the animal’s age, state, and safety. These include:
Sheep/Goats.
Cows/Buffalo.
Camels.
When is Qurbani 2023 performed?
Qurbani 2023 is being performed on the first day of Eid al-Adha, which is expected to be celebrated on Wednesday (28 June 2023). due to the Islamic calendar.
