What is Qurbani in Islam? The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah SWT said,
“It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim (AS). For every hair of the Qurbani, you receive a reward from Allah (SWT).” (Tirmidhi)
Qurbani, often referred to as Udhiyah, is the act of offering an animal as a sacrifice to Allah (SWT). Every year, on the days of Eid ul-Adha, the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims around the world conduct the rite of Qurbani to mark the end of Hajj and remember the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
Although Qurbani may appear to be just the process of butchering an animal and sharing its meat, it is more than that. The Arabic term ‘Qurb,’ which indicates proximity, is the source of the word ‘Qurbani. As a result, Qurbani meaning is to become more intimate with Allah (SWT) while remaining utterly submissive to the Almighty and His will.
What Time Is Qurbani 2023?
Eid ul-Adha is anticipated to start on Thursday, June 29, 2023, and terminate at dusk on Saturday, July 1, 2023. The dates are dependent on the moon’s sighting and can change based on where you are. Muslims should perform the Qurbani between the 10th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah. They celebrate Eid-al-Adha during this time all over the world.
Eligibility for Qurbani
All adult Muslims who are financially secure, of sound mind, and mature are qualified to do Qurbani. A person should have financial stability or have money equal to Nisab to give zakat. Nisab is 612.3 grams of silver and 87.48 grams of gold. This is the same for Qurbani’s eligibility.
The Hanbali and Maliki schools of thought say that the person in charge of providing for the household has the authority to conduct Qurbani on behalf of the entire family.
“Yahya related to me from Malik from Umara ibn Yasar that Ata ibn Yasar told him that Abu Ayyub al-Ansari had told him, “We used to sacrifice one sheep, and a man sacrificed for himself and his family.” (Tirmidhi)
What Are the Qurbani Laws?
Quran says about Qurbani several times. One of them was about sacrificing animals. It says,
“And do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal has reached its place of slaughter.”(2:196)
There are some particular laws that must be maintained for Qurbani in Islam. The laws are:
1) The Eid ul Adha sacrifice must be performed between the 10th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
2) The meat for the Qurbani must be divided into three equal portions:
- One for the home,
- One for relatives and friends, and
- One for the less fortunate.
3) The livestock species that are acceptable for Qurbani are:
- Camel,
- Buffalo,
- Bulls,
- Cows,
- Sheep, and
- Goats
The Importance of Qurbani for Muslims
For Muslims, all throughout the world, Qurbani—also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice—is of utmost significance. It is one of the most important religious celebrations in Islam. It honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) readiness to offer his son Ismail (Ishmael) as a sacrifice in response to Allah (SWT)’s instruction. There are several ways to understand the significance of Qurbani:
Surrender and Obedience
Qurbani represents surrender and obedience to Allah (SWT)’s instructions. We demonstrate our willingness to follow and submit to Allah (SWT)’s will in our own lives by offering an animal as a sacrifice.
Spiritual Purification
Qurbani is a form of prayer that brings a person closer to Allah and cleans their soul at the same time. People see it as a way to get closer to God and ask him to forgive their mistakes.
Charity & Generosity
Qurbani places a strong emphasis on the value of giving and cooperating. The animal’s meat is divided into three portions after the sacrifice has been made. One of the portions is for the unfortunate and people in need. The sharing of meat among the community, even the less fortunate, promotes care, compassion, and social solidarity.
Unity and Global Brotherhood
Qurbani is observed by Muslims everywhere, regardless of their diversity in racial or cultural background or location. Through this act of sacrifice, Muslims as a whole are brought together. It highlights the bond of brothers and sisterhood that exists among believers. It acts as a reminder of the similar principles and goals that unite Muslims. Qurbani is of utmost importance to Muslims. It includes aspects of spirituality, community, giving, and religion. By carrying out this deed, Muslims hope to improve their relationship with Allah (SWT), demonstrate charity, and defend the principles and customs of their religion.
Conclusion
We started with a question which is what is Qurbani in Islam? And this blog answered this question in detail.
Qurbani in Islam is a profound act of devotion and sacrifice that holds deep spiritual significance. It symbolizes Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and submission to Allah’s will. Through the offering of an animal, Muslims demonstrate their commitment to selflessness, gratitude, and compassion towards Allah (SWT).
Qurbani serves as a reminder of the importance of giving, sharing, and caring for those in need. If you want to foster a sense of unity and empathy within the community, then you can donate for Qurbani for needy people.
Ultimately, this sacred tradition invites believers to reflect on their own sacrifices and strive for spiritual growth while exemplifying the timeless values of love, generosity, and devotion in the pursuit of a closer relationship with Allah.