Qurbani Rules: Hanafi vs Shafi - Who Must Sacrifice?

Is Qurbani Obligatory or Sunnah?

The ruling on Qurbani differs between the Islamic schools of jurisprudence (madhahib). Understanding these differences helps you fulfil your obligation correctly according to your school of thought.

The Hanafi Position: Wajib (Obligatory)

According to the Hanafi school, Qurbani is wajib (obligatory) on every Muslim who meets these conditions:

• Muslim: Non-Muslims are not required to perform Qurbani.
• Sane: A person of sound mind.
• Adult: Has reached the age of puberty.
• Muqeem (resident): Not a traveller (according to the Shariah definition of travel).
• Possesses Nisab: Owns wealth equal to or above the Nisab threshold on the days of sacrifice, after deducting essential expenses.

The Hanafi evidence includes the hadith: “Whoever can afford to offer a sacrifice but does not do so, let him not come near our prayer place.” (Ahmad, Ibn Majah). Imam Abu Hanifah interpreted this strong warning as indicating obligation.

The Shafi, Maliki, and Hanbali Position: Sunnah Muakkadah

According to the Shafi, Maliki, and Hanbali schools, Qurbani is Sunnah muakkadah (a strongly recommended practice). It is not sinful to omit, but doing so is highly discouraged, especially for those who can afford it.

Their evidence includes the hadith of Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “When the first ten days [of Dhul Hijjah] have come and one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, let him not touch his hair or skin.” (Muslim). The scholars note the phrase “wants to” implies choice, not obligation.

Practical Guidance for UK Muslims

Regardless of which school you follow, the overwhelming majority of scholars agree that anyone who can afford Qurbani should perform it. The Prophet (peace be upon him) never missed a single Qurbani in his lifetime, and he performed it on behalf of his entire Ummah.

If you follow the Hanafi school and possess wealth above Nisab, Qurbani is obligatory on you. Use our Qurbani Calculator to determine your obligation.

Who Must Give Qurbani?

According to the Hanafi school, each eligible adult must give their own Qurbani. This means if a household has three adults above Nisab, three separate Qurbanis are required. A husband cannot combine his wife’s Qurbani with his own unless she has explicitly authorised him to do so.

Consider our Family Qurbani Bundle for an easy way to give for your entire household.

What Happens If You Miss Qurbani?

If someone who was obligated to perform Qurbani did not do so during the days of Eid, the Hanafi school states they should give the equivalent value in charity. However, the specific reward of Qurbani cannot be replicated outside its time.