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How To Choose An Animal For Qurbani? The Complete Guideline

Animal For Qurbani

Today, we will discuss how to choose an animal for Qurbani, which is a significant aspect of Islam as it is performed to honor Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice and celebrate Eid Al-Adha. While Allah (SWT) has commanded Muslims to perform Qurbani in His name, there are specific guidelines set forth in Islam that must be followed to ensure the animal chosen for sacrifice is acceptable.

What is Qurbani?

It is a commemoration of the sacrifice that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was willing to make when he was asked by Allah (SWT) to give up his beloved son, Prophet Ismail (AS). During Qurbani, an animal such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel is sacrificed, and its meat is distributed into three equal parts. One portion should be donated to those who are incapable of performing Qurbani themselves. Another portion is saved for one’s own consumption, and the final portion is given to family and friends. This act of generosity and sharing is a crucial aspect of Qurbani and reflects the values of Islam, which emphasize compassion, charity, and community.

What time does Qurbani begin? 

Qurbani, the act of sacrificing an animal, is only permitted during specific days in the Islamic calendar, which fall on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, following the Eid prayer at the beginning of Eid Al-Adha. These days hold great significance in Islam, as they mark the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and the commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah (SWT). The act of Qurbani on these days is a way for Muslims to show their gratitude to Allah (SWT) and to share the blessings of the occasion with others in need.

When is the ideal moment to buy a Qurbani animal?

When someone wants to buy an animal for Qurbani, is a decision that is solely up to them. When it comes to the animal’s age, a person might buy a young animal and then feed it until it reaches a particular age of maturity. On the other hand, it is acceptable for a person to buy an animal even just a few days before Eid Al-Adha.

The selection of an animal for sacrifice is a prerequisite for Qurbani

To perform Qurbani in Islam, choosing the right animal is crucial. It is necessary to follow the guidelines set forth by Allah (SWT) and use only Halal currency and means to purchase the animal. Muslims should also ensure that the animal is in perfect health and meets all other necessary criteria before sacrificing it. This emphasizes the importance of treating animals with respect and dignity in Islam, as well as following proper Islamic procedures in all aspects of life.

The animal should meet the standards listed below:

  • They must be Halal animals
  • Appropriate age
  • Overall sound healthy
  • The shape of the animal’s body should be excellent

Which animals are acceptable for Qurbani?

In the name of Allah (SWT), Qurbani of these animals that He designated “Halal Animals” are permitted. When sacrificing an animal, one must also utter the phrase “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar” to make it Halal. Animals are regarded as haram without speaking this specific sentence, as Allah (SWT) declares in Surah Al-Haj, verse 36 of the Holy Quran. He also mentioned that the animals, such as camels designated for you as emblems of Allah (SWT), are perfect for you. Therefore, when they are lined up for sacrifice, mention the name of Allah (SWT) over them; when they are lifeless, only you can eat their meat and distribute it to the poor and the beggar. Allah (SWT) has imposed them upon you to make you thankful. [Surah Al-Haj; 36]

From the above quotations from the Holy Quran, Allah (SWT) describes the animals acceptable for sacrifice in Islam, including cows, goats, camels, buffalo, and sheep.

The health of the animal

The animal must be physically sound, energetic, powerful, and free from wounds or any illnesses. Additionally, animals shouldn’t be toothless or have more than half of their teeth missing, and their horns shouldn’t be removed from the root. Islam prefers the gender of the sacrificed animal to be male, not female.

Age of the animal

An animal must be of the following age for Qurbani:

  • Goats and sheep that are at least a year old
  • Cattle or buffalo that are at least two years old
  • Camels that are at least five years old

The body shape of the animal

The animal must be in excellent health and not have an abnormal body shape. Therefore, the buyer must inspect the animal’s body in terms of its length, height, and balance before purchasing.

The weight percentage of the animal

The proportion of the animal’s weight is the final factor. After being sacrificed, the carcass of an animal is made up of flesh and bones; it lacks the head, feet, skin, and internal organs. Based on the animal’s weight when it was alive, the weight of the carcass is determined. For comparison, cattle of the Ongole breeds must have a carcass weight of 40–45%, Bali cattle 52–55%, Madura cattle 46–48%, limousine cattle 52%, and Simmental breed cattle 51%.

The procedure of Qurbani flesh distribution

Once an animal has been sacrificed, it is customarily divided into three portions one for the person who made the Qurbani donation, one for the donor’s friends and family, and the rest is given to the less fortunate. However, many Muslims will donate to charity, and all of the shares are given to the needy due to the laws of some countries.

FAQs

What Is Qurbani?

The word “Qurbani,” which means offering, refers to the recognition of the sacrifice that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was going to make when he almost gave up his son, Prophet Ismail (AS), for the sake of Allah (SWT). Qurbani involves the sacrifice of an animal and the distribution of its flesh, mainly to the poor and needy.

What are the prerequisites for selecting a Qurbani animal?

The prerequisites for selecting a Qurbani animal are highlighted below:

  • The animal must be Halal
  • The age of the animal must be appropriate
  • Animals must be in sound health
  • The animal must be in excellent shape
  • The money with which the animal must be bought should be Halal

Which animals are acceptable for Qurbani?

Cows, goats, camels, buffalo, and sheep are permitted for sacrifice in Islam, as declared by Allah (SWT) in the Holy Quran.

To concludePerforming Qurbani involves sacrificing an animal in the name of Allah (SWT), but selecting the right animal can be a challenging task. That is why how to choose an animal for Qurbani is a crucial topic that needs to be addressed. By adhering to the guidelines and prerequisites set by Allah (SWT), one can ensure that their Qurbani is accepted. We hope this article will have provided a detailed explanation of the selection process to help alleviate any concerns or doubts.

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