Qurbani; An Abrahamic Sunnah
It is absolutely significant for every Musilm to follow in the footsteps of Prophet Abraham
(PBUH) by sacrificing an animal in order to show gratitude to Allah during the festival of Eid
Al-Adha. This ritual is known as Al-Udhiyah or Qurbani which is important to be performed
by those who are financially capable. There are prophetic narrations which suggest that,
blessings and rewards will be given for every fibre of wool or every strand of hair of the
sacrificed animal. Information below will help answer some questions on fundamental
criteria and best practice for Qurbani. It should be bourn in mind
Quality of the Animal:
-Healthy and good quality animals are essential for Qurbani in order to fit with the
Tayyib concept those that are lame, with broken teeth and poorly must not be
sacrificed.
-Animals must be mature, with Muslim Scholars generally agreeing that for lambs it
can be six months as long as they appear to be one year old. As for the cows, they
must be minimum two years old.
-Order should be placed well in advance to ensure Qurbani are purchased and
sacrificed at the correct time.
Timing of the Qurbani:
-The Udhiyaah/Qurbani can only be performed after Eid Al-Adha Prayers otherwise it
is invalid and not classified as Qurbani.
-Eid Salah can only be performed 15 minutes after sunrise and before Zawaal (noon)
on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. The Qurbani can only begin after Eid Prayers have
been performed.
-It is allowed to perform Qurbani for three days up to sunset on 13th Dhul Hijjah.
Shares in Qurbani:
-One Qurbani can be performed for one person or more as one family. A cow or a
camel can be shared by up to seven people according to the prophetic narrations.
-Qurbani is an important Sunnah for living and dead Muslims but it is more
confirmed for those who are alive.
Performing Qurbani in another country:
-It is recommended to perform Qurbani by oneself in his place. However, the
contemporary scholars have stated that, the performance of Qurbani can be
encouraged in another place or country, especially if the poverty is widespread
there.
Charity and meat distribution:
- The value of the skin and other by-products should be given to the poor people.
-It is important to verify the abattoir or butcher has performed the Qurbani on time
when receiving the meat.
-Typically, the meat should be distributed in three portions – one for the person's
family, one for friends and neighbors and one for charity.
When?
-Eid Al-Adha is on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah which is the 12th month of Islamic lunar
calendar.
Prepared by Sh Kazi Luthfur Rahman
Imam & Khateeb, London Central Mosque & The Islamic Cultural Centre