Qurbani, or sacrificing an animal on Eid al-Adha, is a holy Islamic ritual that celebrates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah per Qurbani rules. For Muslims worldwide, it’s a day of thanksgiving, giving charity, and spiritual contemplation. But who must perform Qurbani, and what are the guidelines?
This blog clarifies Qurbani rules, who is qualified for Qurbani, and offers easy-to-follow guidelines to help you navigate this ritual properly.
Qurbani Rules: Who Should Be Giving It
What Is Qurbani and Why Is It Significant?
Qurbani, or Udhiyah, is the ritual slaughter of an animal (e.g., goat, sheep, cow, or camel) on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, the Islamic month of Eid al-Adha, as per the Qurbani rules. It is to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to sacrifice his son at Allah’s behest, only for Allah to substitute the son (Ismael AS) with a ram.
Who Should Give Qurbani?
Not all Muslims are required to perform Qurbani. Islamic scholars have clearly defined the eligibility criteria so that only those who can afford it perform the responsibility. The following is who should perform Qurbani:
Muslims of Sound Mind: The individual should be an adult, sane Muslim (over puberty age).
Financial Capability: Qurbani is mandatory on individuals who hold wealth above the Nisab limit (the minimum level of wealth that renders one liable for Zakat). This may include savings, gold, silver, or other belongings above basic requirements.
Residency Status: Qurbani is mandatory on resident Muslims (not on travelers) on Eid al-Adha days.
Intention: The person has to intend to offer Qurbani as an act of worship for Allah as per the Qurbani rules.
For instance, if you own a fortune to the tune of 87.48 grams of gold or 612.36 grams of silver (or monetary value), having taken care of your basic requirements, then you are qualified enough to conduct Qurbani. This also precludes the inability of duty descending upon others who are not competent to follow Qurbani rules.
Who Should Not Do Qurbani?
Non-Muslims, children, or the minds of unsound people need not do Qurbani.
Muslims below the Nisab amount (e.g., those with less wealth) are not required.
Travelers (as classified by Islamic law) at Eid al-Adha do not need to, but can give voluntarily.
Easiest Instructions to Perform Qurbani
To make Qurbani valid and allow it, adhere to these easy Islamic guidelines:
Select the Correct Animal: The animal should be healthy, free of any defects, and appropriate age. Typical animals are:
Sheep or goats: One year. If the sheep is 6 months old but looks like a sheep that’s one year old, its sacrifice is permissible.
Buffaloes or cows: Two years.
Camels: Five years old.
Do Qurbani on Time: Sacrifice should be done after Eid al-Adha prayer and before sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. Sacrifices done at any other time are not Qurbani.
Qurbani Rules: Who Should Be Giving It
Divide the Meat Appropriately: Divide the meat into three equal parts.
One for yourself.
One for friends and relatives.
One for the poor and needy.
Set the Intention: Before you perform the sacrifice, set your intention in your heart that this action is for Allah’s sake.
You can recite a prayer, e.g.:
“Bismillah, Allahu Akbar.”
Ensure Proper Slaughter: Slaughter the animal in the way prescribed by Islamic law (e.g., facing the Qibla, with a sharp knife, and with minimal pain).
Do not waste anything: Utilize all the animal in every way, be it the meat, the skin, to the other sections because wastefulness is detested by Islam.
In case you cannot sacrifice it yourself, you can also assign it to a reputable institution or a reliable person, especially for those in cities or non-Muslim nations.
Qurbani Rules: Who Should Be Giving It
Qurbani Rules: Frequently Asked Questions About Qurbani
Can Qurbani Be Shared?
Yes, big animals like camels or cows can be distributed among seven individuals, provided everyone is trained and wants to do Qurbani. Small animals like sheep or goats are for a household or one individual.
What If I Can’t Afford Qurbani?
If you are below the Nisab limit, Qurbani is not compulsory. Allah does not put any hardship on anyone that they cannot shoulder. But then, you may donate by giving towards a collective Qurbani if you prefer.
Can I give Qurbani on behalf of Others?
You can do the Qurbani on your near relatives (i.e., wife or kids) or even those who have departed, if you are allowed to (if alive) or in charity. But that does not come in place of your own if you are liable.
Is Qurbani Essential Every Year?
Yes, to the lucky ones, Qurbani is obligatory every year at Eid al-Adha. It’s a method of reconnecting your commitment to Allah and returning to society.
Conclusion: Who Should Take Part In Sacrifice
Qurbani is a lovely act of submission that solidifies beliefs, promotes charity, and brings people together. By knowing who must do Qurbani and adhering to the Qurbani rules above, you can make your sacrifice worthwhile and acceptable. Whether you are performing Qurbani for the first time or are required to know, these Qurbani rules keep everything easy to do. For more details about Islamic rituals, refer to reliable scholars or authentic sources to learn about Eid al-Adha and its rituals and Qurbani rules.
