Qurbani, or Udhiyah, as it’s known in Arabic, holds a significant place in Islam. It serves as a reminder of the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah, before Allah replaced his son with a ram to be sacrificed instead. During the month of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims worldwide observe this act of faith and devotion through Qurbani, marking one of the key rituals aligned with the Hajj season.

As the celebration lasts for 3 days, if Eid-al Adha Qurbani 2024 begin on Sunday 16th June, it will end on Tuesday 18th June 2024.

Eligibility for Qurbani

Not every Muslim is obligated to perform Qurbani. The act is mandated upon those who are of mature age (have reached the age of puberty) and possess the financial means. Essentially, if you hold wealth above the nisab threshold (the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess for a full lunar year to become eligible to pay Zakat), performing Qurbani becomes obligatory.

Selecting the Qurbani Animal

Selecting an eligible animal is critical for Qurbani. It’s not just any animal; specific criteria must be met:

• The animal must be one of the livestock (cattle, sheep, goats, or camels).
• Age requirements are as follows: camels should be no less than five years old, cows at least two, and goats and sheep at least one. Younger animals are not permissible.
• It must be free from any apparent defect or ailment (e.g., not blind, lean, lame, or sick).

These guidelines ensure the quality of life of the animals and promote ethical treatment in line with Islamic teachings.

The Process of Performing Qurbani

Qurbani should be carried out following the Eid al-Adha prayers, starting from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Slaughtering before the completion of Eid prayers is not acceptable. The manner of the slaughter must adhere to Islamic principles — recitation of Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and Bismillah (In the name of Allah), and swift cutting of the throat, ensuring minimal suffering to the animal.

Distribution of Qurbani Meat

The distribution of meat is an act of kindness and generosity, symbolizing sharing with those less fortunate. The meat should be divided into three parts:

• One portion for the family.
• One portion for relatives and friends.
• One portion for the poor and needy.

This practice embodies the spirit of community and caring for others, central to the values of Islam.

Offering Qurbani on Behalf of Others

It is permissible and often customary to offer Qurbani donation on behalf of others, including deceased relatives or those unable to afford it. This act of generosity extends the rewards of Qurbani to others and strengthens ties within the community.

In Summary

The observance of Qurbani is more than an act of ritual slaughter; it’s a profound display of devotion, obedience, and solidarity. By adhering to these guidelines, Muslims can ensure their Qurbani is performed properly, reinforcing the communal bonds and sharing the blessings of Allah with those around them.

For those looking to further participate in the spirit of giving, consider a donation for Qurbani, enabling those in less fortunate circumstances to partake in this blessed tradition. Quranic verses and Hadiths suggest that good deeds performed during this holy period are immensely rewarding. Thus, whether through performing Qurbani or contributing towards it, one actively participates in a centuries-old tradition that celebrates faith, sacrifice, and compassion.