The act of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha holds immense importance in Islam. As a committed Muslim, performing Qurbani signifies fulfilling Allah’s (SWT) command to assist the less fortunate across the globe and exhibit one’s allegiance to Allah (SWT). The term ‘qurban’ in Arabic, the root of Qurbani, means to surrender oneself to Allah (SWT). And the word “Qurbani” itself holds deep meaning, as the Arabic word ‘qurb’ implies closeness. Therefore, Qurbani is an act that brings one closer to Allah (SWT) through surrendering oneself to His will. Muslims worldwide come together during Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, to celebrate Eid Al-Adha and perform Qurbani.
What is Qurbani
Participating in the traditional slaughtering of a livestock animal serves as a remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) supreme sacrifice and emulation of his unwavering commitment to seeking a closer relationship with Allah (SWT). While Qurbani is highly valued in Islam for its demonstration of unwavering devotion to our Creator, it also holds significant symbolic and spiritual significance beyond this.
The importance of sacrificing animals during Eid Al-Adha and social values
Qurbani serves as a powerful tool for providing essential solidarity and hope to those in need. Shockingly, statistics show that 1 in 9 people worldwide experience chronic hunger. However, through the act of Qurbani during Eid, you can help provide food for needy families and bring a sense of relief to their struggles. It is worth noting that the first 10 days of Dhu al-Hijjah, are considered the most holy days of the year by Allah (SWT). Thus, by performing Qurbani during this period, we not only express our devotion to Allah (SWT) but also exemplify the compassionate and charitable nature of Islam by helping those in need.
Sacrificing animals – Islamic views
Performing Qurbani, or sacrificing animals, during Eid Al-Adha is a religious obligation for financially capable Muslims. It holds great significance and serves as a way of demonstrating devotion to Allah (SWT). From an Islamic perspective, Qurbani has multiple benefits and virtues. Let us explore some of them below.
Hajj and animal sacrifice
Saudi Arabia welcomes over 10 million Muslim pilgrims from 185 countries every year, and the majority of them arrive during the Hajj season. This season is a time to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering trust in Allah (SWT) and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) to please Him. As an expression of gratitude for the blessing and acceptance of the pilgrimage, pilgrims who have completed the Hajj offer a sacrificed animal and donate its meat to the needy as an act of charity. This is a ritual that has been prescribed by the Almighty, and its significance is deeply ingrained in Islamic traditions.
Rewards from Qurbani
When talking about the importance of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha, numerous rewards are there for Muslims. According to Islamic scholar Al-Tirmidhi, the Prophet (SAW) said: “It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim (AS). For every hair of the Qurbani, you receive a reward from Allah (SWT)”.
Consider the number of hairs a single animal, such as a goat or cow, has – countless trillions! As a result, the rewards for performing Qurbani are immeasurable, and even more so when done according to the Prophetic way.
Showing gratitude to Allah
Qurbani provides an opportunity for all Muslims to express gratitude towards Allah (SWT) for the countless blessings and favors bestowed upon them. Fulfilling this religious obligation can be done by sacrificing a goat, another small animal, or even a portion of a larger animal, such as a cow. The important aspect is to fulfill the obligation with sincerity and devotion.
Allah (SWT) tells us in the Quran:
As for offering charity of camels and cattle at the Hajj-Pilgrimage, We have made the benefit of sacrificing them among Allah’s prescribed rituals and waymarks for you. In them, there is much suitable for you.
So mention the name of Allah over them as they stand in the ranks for sacrifice. Then when they collapse upon their flanks, you may butcher their meat to eat of them yourselves — and to feed both the self-restrained needy and the suppliant poor. As this is a fine act of charity
Thus have we subjugated the sacrificial animals to provide you with all so that you may all thank Allah (SWT). Never shall any part of their flesh nor their blood reach Allah. But instead, it is your devotion — inspired by the fear of Allah (SWT) in you — that reaches Him.
Therefore has He subjugated them to you, that you shall praise Allah, the Creator, for the blessing of faith to which He has guided you. So give glad tidings to those who excel in doing good (Surah Hajj, 22:36-37).
Looking after the poor and the community
Donating Qurbani offerings is a significant way to provide for the poor and needy during Eid al-Adha. By giving a portion of the sacrificed animal’s meat to those who are less fortunate, we can express our gratitude to Allah (SWT) and help uplift communities.
Allah (SWT) said in the Quran:
“Donating the animal offerings is among the rites decreed by Allah (SWT) for your good. You shall mention God’s name on them while they are standing in line. Once they are offered for sacrifice, you shall eat from there and feed people experiencing poverty and those in need. This is why we subdued them for you: you may show your appreciation.” – Quran 22:36
FAQ
Do you sacrifice animals on Eid Al-Adha?
Ans: Yes, Muslims do sacrifice animals on Eid al-Adha as it is a significant religious ritual in Islam. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), as an act of obedience to God, and his ultimate sacrifice was replaced by a ram sent by Allah. The sacrifice is seen as an act of submission and gratitude to Allah, and the meat is distributed among family, friends, and the needy as a symbol of charity and sharing.
What is the benefit of sacrificing an animal on Eid Al-Adha?
Ans: One of the significant benefits of sacrificing an animal on Eid Al-Adha is to follow the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and show complete devotion and obedience to Allah (SWT). Additionally, the meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed among the needy, which is a charitable act and an excellent opportunity to provide for those less fortunate.
What animals can be sacrificed on Eid Al-Adha?
Ans: Muslims usually sacrifice specific animals on Eid Al-Adha, such as sheep, goats, buffalo, cattle, and camels. These animals must be healthy, of a certain age, and meet specific criteria to ensure that the sacrifice is valid and acceptable in the eyes of Allah (SWT).
To conclude There are many reasons for the Importance of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha. One of them is that it teaches us the significance of unity and the universal Ummah. Another important aspect is the necessity of dividing the qurbani meat into three equal portions. By adhering to the principles of the Holy Quran and giving one-third of your sacrifice to those in need, you actively contribute to a more equal and balanced world. Muslims engage in careful contemplation of their personal life, faith, and relationship with Allah (SWT) during Dhu al-Hijjah and Eid Al-Adhacelebrations. This contemplation helps us understand why offering Prophetic Qurbani is considered a virtuous act.
The importance of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha
The act of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha holds immense importance in Islam. As a committed Muslim, performing Qurbani signifies fulfilling Allah’s (SWT) command to assist the less fortunate across the globe and exhibit one’s allegiance to Allah (SWT). The term ‘qurban’ in Arabic, the root of Qurbani, means to surrender oneself to Allah (SWT). And the word “Qurbani” itself holds deep meaning, as the Arabic word ‘qurb’ implies closeness. Therefore, Qurbani is an act that brings one closer to Allah (SWT) through surrendering oneself to His will. Muslims worldwide come together during Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, to celebrate Eid Al-Adha and perform Qurbani.
What is Qurbani
Participating in the traditional slaughtering of a livestock animal serves as a remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) supreme sacrifice and emulation of his unwavering commitment to seeking a closer relationship with Allah (SWT). While Qurbani is highly valued in Islam for its demonstration of unwavering devotion to our Creator, it also holds significant symbolic and spiritual significance beyond this.
The importance of sacrificing animals during Eid Al-Adha and social values
Qurbani serves as a powerful tool for providing essential solidarity and hope to those in need. Shockingly, statistics show that 1 in 9 people worldwide experience chronic hunger. However, through the act of Qurbani during Eid, you can help provide food for needy families and bring a sense of relief to their struggles. It is worth noting that the first 10 days of Dhu al-Hijjah, are considered the most holy days of the year by Allah (SWT). Thus, by performing Qurbani during this period, we not only express our devotion to Allah (SWT) but also exemplify the compassionate and charitable nature of Islam by helping those in need.
Sacrificing animals – Islamic views
Performing Qurbani, or sacrificing animals, during Eid Al-Adha is a religious obligation for financially capable Muslims. It holds great significance and serves as a way of demonstrating devotion to Allah (SWT). From an Islamic perspective, Qurbani has multiple benefits and virtues. Let us explore some of them below.
Hajj and animal sacrifice
Saudi Arabia welcomes over 10 million Muslim pilgrims from 185 countries every year, and the majority of them arrive during the Hajj season. This season is a time to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering trust in Allah (SWT) and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) to please Him. As an expression of gratitude for the blessing and acceptance of the pilgrimage, pilgrims who have completed the Hajj offer a sacrificed animal and donate its meat to the needy as an act of charity. This is a ritual that has been prescribed by the Almighty, and its significance is deeply ingrained in Islamic traditions.
Rewards from Qurbani
When talking about the importance of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha, numerous rewards are there for Muslims. According to Islamic scholar Al-Tirmidhi, the Prophet (SAW) said: “It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim (AS). For every hair of the Qurbani, you receive a reward from Allah (SWT)”.
Consider the number of hairs a single animal, such as a goat or cow, has – countless trillions! As a result, the rewards for performing Qurbani are immeasurable, and even more so when done according to the Prophetic way.
Showing gratitude to Allah
Qurbani provides an opportunity for all Muslims to express gratitude towards Allah (SWT) for the countless blessings and favors bestowed upon them. Fulfilling this religious obligation can be done by sacrificing a goat, another small animal, or even a portion of a larger animal, such as a cow. The important aspect is to fulfill the obligation with sincerity and devotion.
Allah (SWT) tells us in the Quran:
As for offering charity of camels and cattle at the Hajj-Pilgrimage, We have made the benefit of sacrificing them among Allah’s prescribed rituals and waymarks for you. In them, there is much suitable for you.
So mention the name of Allah over them as they stand in the ranks for sacrifice. Then when they collapse upon their flanks, you may butcher their meat to eat of them yourselves — and to feed both the self-restrained needy and the suppliant poor. As this is a fine act of charity
Thus have we subjugated the sacrificial animals to provide you with all so that you may all thank Allah (SWT). Never shall any part of their flesh nor their blood reach Allah. But instead, it is your devotion — inspired by the fear of Allah (SWT) in you — that reaches Him.
Therefore has He subjugated them to you, that you shall praise Allah, the Creator, for the blessing of faith to which He has guided you. So give glad tidings to those who excel in doing good (Surah Hajj, 22:36-37).
Looking after the poor and the community
Donating Qurbani offerings is a significant way to provide for the poor and needy during Eid al-Adha. By giving a portion of the sacrificed animal’s meat to those who are less fortunate, we can express our gratitude to Allah (SWT) and help uplift communities.
Allah (SWT) said in the Quran:
“Donating the animal offerings is among the rites decreed by Allah (SWT) for your good. You shall mention God’s name on them while they are standing in line. Once they are offered for sacrifice, you shall eat from there and feed people experiencing poverty and those in need. This is why we subdued them for you: you may show your appreciation.” – Quran 22:36
FAQ
Ans: Yes, Muslims do sacrifice animals on Eid al-Adha as it is a significant religious ritual in Islam. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), as an act of obedience to God, and his ultimate sacrifice was replaced by a ram sent by Allah. The sacrifice is seen as an act of submission and gratitude to Allah, and the meat is distributed among family, friends, and the needy as a symbol of charity and sharing.
Ans: One of the significant benefits of sacrificing an animal on Eid Al-Adha is to follow the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and show complete devotion and obedience to Allah (SWT). Additionally, the meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed among the needy, which is a charitable act and an excellent opportunity to provide for those less fortunate.
Ans: Muslims usually sacrifice specific animals on Eid Al-Adha, such as sheep, goats, buffalo, cattle, and camels. These animals must be healthy, of a certain age, and meet specific criteria to ensure that the sacrifice is valid and acceptable in the eyes of Allah (SWT).
To conclude There are many reasons for the Importance of sacrificing an animal during Eid Al-Adha. One of them is that it teaches us the significance of unity and the universal Ummah. Another important aspect is the necessity of dividing the qurbani meat into three equal portions. By adhering to the principles of the Holy Quran and giving one-third of your sacrifice to those in need, you actively contribute to a more equal and balanced world. Muslims engage in careful contemplation of their personal life, faith, and relationship with Allah (SWT) during Dhu al-Hijjah and Eid Al-Adha celebrations. This contemplation helps us understand why offering Prophetic Qurbani is considered a virtuous act.