The Meaning of Qurbani
Qurbani (Arabic: qurban, meaning “to draw near”) is the Islamic practice of sacrificing a livestock animal during the days of Eid al-Adha. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) to sacrifice his son Ismail (peace be upon him) in obedience to Allah’s command.
The term Udhiyah is the classical Arabic term for the same act, derived from the word meaning “forenoon” - referring to the time after sunrise when the sacrifice is performed. In South Asian communities, the term Qurbani (from Urdu) is more commonly used.
The Story of Ibrahim (AS)
Allah (SWT) tested Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) by commanding him in a dream to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail. Both father and son submitted to Allah’s will. As Ibrahim was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram from Paradise.
Allah says in the Quran: “And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” (Quran 37:107). This act of complete submission is what every Muslim commemorates through Qurbani each year.
Which Animals Are Eligible?
The following animals are acceptable for Qurbani:
- Sheep: Minimum 6 months old (must appear 1 year old). Counts as 1 share.
- Goats: Minimum 1 year old. Counts as 1 share.
- Cows/Bulls: Minimum 2 years old. Can be shared among up to 7 people.
- Camels: Minimum 5 years old. Can be shared among up to 7 people.
Animals must be healthy, free from obvious defects (blindness, lameness, severe illness, emaciation), and well-nourished.
How is Qurbani Performed?
The animal must be slaughtered in the name of Allah, with Bismillah and Takbeer, by a sane Muslim adult. The throat, windpipe, and blood vessels must be cut swiftly with a sharp blade to minimise suffering. The animal must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter.
Distribution of Meat
The Sunnah method of distributing Qurbani meat is to divide it into three portions:
- One-third for the poor and needy
- One-third for relatives, friends, and neighbours
- One-third for the household
When donating through a charity like Muslims In Need, all of the meat goes to the poorest families in the chosen country, as you are effectively giving your entire share as Sadaqah.
Qurbani With Muslims In Need
We offer Qurbani in 27 countries, with prices starting from just £40. Every animal is hand-selected, inspected for Shariah compliance, and slaughtered by trained Muslim butchers. You receive photographic feedback after the sacrifice.
Ready to Give Your Qurbani?
100% Donation Policy. Shariah Compliant. UK Reg. Charity 1158317.
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