How to Perform Qurbani
The Meaning of Qurbani
Qurbani, or Udhiya, refers to the ritual sacrifice of specific animals during Eid al-Adha. This act commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering devotion to Allah, demonstrated when he was prepared to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah’s command. In His mercy, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, making Qurbani a powerful symbol of faith and submission.
Importance in Islam
Qurbani is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah, meaning it is a highly recommended act. Performing Qurbani revives the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and fulfills an important social duty, as the meat is shared with family, friends, and the needy.
Who Is Required to Perform Qurbani?
Financial and Religious Criteria
Qurbani is wajib (obligatory) for every Muslim who:
- Is an adult (has reached puberty)
- Is sane
- Is not traveling
- Possesses wealth equal to or above the Nisab threshold (approximately the value of 87.48 grams of gold)
Age and Maturity Requirements
Although children are not obligated, their guardians can offer Qurbani on their behalf as an act of goodwill. Women are equally responsible if they meet the financial criteria.
When Is Qurbani Performed?
Qurbani is performed during the days of Eid al-Adha, specifically:
- From after the Eid Salah on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah
- Until sunset on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah
Performing the sacrifice on the first day is considered most virtuous.
Which Animals Can Be Sacrificed?
Types of Animals
Permissible animals for Qurbani include:
- Sheep
- Goats
- Cows (can be shared among seven people)
- Camels (can also be shared among seven people)
Age and Health Requirements
Each animal must meet minimum age requirements:
- Sheep/Goat: At least 1 year old
- Cow: At least 2 years old
- Camel: At least 5 years old
Animals must be free from defects, including:
- Blindness or significant vision loss
- Lameness
- Missing ears or tails
- Serious illness
Qurbani Rules
Qurbani in the Quran
“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 of [sacrificial] animals.”
This verse indicates that animal sacrifice is a universal act of devotion, and it highlights the importance of invoking Allah’s name during Qurbani.
- Surah Al-Kawthar (108:2):
فَصَلِّ لِرَبِّكَ وَٱنْحَرْ ٢
“So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].”
This command associates prayer and sacrifice as acts of worship dedicated solely to Allah.
Qurbani in the Hadith
- Sahih Bukhari: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The son of Adam does not do any action on the Day of Sacrifice which is more beloved to Allah than the shedding of blood.”
- Sunan al-Tirmidhi: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever can afford it but does not offer a sacrifice, let him not approach our prayer place.”This hadith emphasizes the obligation for eligible Muslims and highlights the seriousness of neglecting Qurbani without a valid excuse.
- Sahih Muslim: It is narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) sacrificed two white rams with black markings. He slaughtered them with his own hands, mentioned Allah’s name, and said “Allahu Akbar.”
These sources make it clear that Qurbani is a deeply rooted religious obligation for those who are able, and it must be carried out with sincerity, proper intention, and under the prescribed rules.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform Qurbani
Step 1: Intention (Niyyah)
Make a clear intention in your heart that the sacrifice is for Qurbani. Though saying it aloud is not mandatory, it is encouraged.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Animal
Select a healthy animal that meets Islamic requirements. Inspect for signs of good health, and ensure the animal is treated with kindness.
Step 3: Observing Sunnah Guidelines
- The person performing the slaughter should be a practicing Muslim.
- Sharpen the knife before use.
- Avoid causing stress to the animal.
- Say: “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar” before slaughtering.
- Lay the animal gently on its left side, facing the Qiblah.
Step 4: The Slaughter Process
- Use a sharp knife to swiftly cut the throat, windpipe, and both jugular veins.
- Do not sever the spinal cord.
- Allow the animal to bleed out completely before skinning.
Step 5: Distributing the Meat
Islamic tradition recommends dividing the meat into three equal parts:
- One-third for your family
- One-third for relatives and friends
- One-third for the poor and needy
This ensures that the act of Qurbani spreads blessings throughout the community.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Qurbani
- Using animals that are too young or have defects
- Not reciting “Bismillah” before the slaughter
- Performing Qurbani before Eid prayer
- Mishandling or mistreating animals
- Failing to distribute the meat properly
The Story of Qurbani
Qurbani in the Holy Quran
1. Surah As-Saffat (37:102–107):
“Then, when the boy reached the age to work with him, [Prophet Ibrahim] said, ‘O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you, so what do you think?’ He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, among the patient ones.’”
(Qur’an 37:102)
This verse highlights the obedience of Prophet Ismail (AS) and the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) in submitting to Allah’s command.
“Then, when they had both submitted [to Allah’s will], and he had laid him down upon his forehead, We called out to him, ‘O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. Indeed, this was a clear trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.”
(Qur’an 37:103–107)
Here, Allah acknowledges Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice and substitutes Ismail (AS) with a ram, signifying the importance of obedience and faith. This moment is the origin of the Qurbani practice observed by Muslims during Eid al-Adha.
Qurbani in the Hadith
1. Sahih al-Bukhari:
“There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of sacrifice than the shedding of blood. Indeed, the sacrificed animal will come on the Day of Judgment with its horns, hair, and hooves. Indeed, the blood reaches Allah before it falls to the ground. So sacrifice with an open heart.”
This Hadith emphasizes the spiritual value of Qurbani and how the act is beloved to Allah.
2. Sunan al-Tirmidhi:
“Whoever can afford to offer a sacrifice but does not do so, let him not come near our prayer place.”
This strongly highlights the obligation of Qurbani for those who are financially able, and the seriousness of neglecting it.
3. Sahih Muslim:
“The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) sacrificed two white rams with black markings. He slaughtered them with his own hand, mentioned the name of Allah, and said ‘Allahu Akbar.’”
This Hadith reflects the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in performing Qurbani personally and with devotion.
FAQs About Performing Qurbani
Q: Can I give money to a charity to perform Qurbani on my behalf?
Yes, this is permissible. Many charities offer Qurbani services on your behalf, especially in areas where the need is greater.
Q: Can women perform Qurbani themselves?
Yes, if they are eligible, women can perform or arrange Qurbani.
Q: What if I miss the days of Qurbani?
If missed without a valid excuse, one must offer Sadaqah equivalent to the cost of the Qurbani animal.
Q: Can multiple people share in one Qurbani?
Yes, for large animals like cows or camels, up to seven people can share one Qurbani, each with a valid intention.
Read more: Qurbani Eid 2025: Date, Meaning, Rules, Sunnah, and References
Conclusion: Making Your Qurbani Meaningful
Qurbani is not just about sacrifice—it’s about faith, charity, and devotion. When done with sincere intention and proper knowledge, it becomes a powerful spiritual experience and a means to support others. Prepare in advance, follow Islamic guidelines, and remember the essence of the sacrifice: devotion to Allah and care for His creation.
