Qurbani (Udhiya) – Meaning, Rules, and How to Perform the Sacrifice

Qurbani, also known as Udhiya, is the sacred Islamic ritual of sacrificing a permitted livestock animal during Eid al-Adha. It commemorates the profound obedience and submission of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah, when he was willing to sacrifice his beloved son in complete faith. Allah replaced the sacrifice with an animal, establishing a timeless act of worship that Muslims continue every year.

The word Qurbani comes from Qurb meaning nearness. Through this act, Muslims seek closeness to Allah, express gratitude, and demonstrate devotion, humility, and compassion for others.

What Is Qurbani in Islam?

Qurbani is an act of worship (ibadah) performed by eligible Muslims during the days of Eid al-Adha. It involves slaughtering a specific animal in the name of Allah and distributing its meat according to Islamic guidance especially to the poor and needy.

It is not merely a ritual. Qurbani represents:

• Total obedience to Allah
• Willingness to sacrifice what we love for His sake
• Care and generosity toward those less fortunate

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your righteousness that reaches Him.” (Qur’an 22:37)

When Is Qurbani Performed?

Qurbani is carried out:

• After the Eid al-Adha prayer
• During the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul-Hijjah
  (Some scholars allow until sunset on the 13th)

Sacrifices done before the Eid prayer are not valid as Qurbani.

Who Is Required to Perform Qurbani?

Qurbani is obligatory (wajib) according to many scholars (including the Hanafi school) for:

• Adult Muslims
• Of sound mind
• Who possess wealth above the nisab threshold

For others, it remains a highly recommended Sunnah with great reward.

Animals Permitted for Qurbani

Only specific livestock animals are allowed:

• Sheep or Goat – one animal per person
• Cow or Buffalo – shared by up to seven people
• Camel – shared by up to seven people

Conditions of the Animal

The animal must:

• Reach the required minimum age
• Be healthy and free from major defects
• Not be blind, severely ill, or crippled

The sacrifice must be performed humanely, swiftly, and in the name of Allah.

How Is the Meat Distributed?

Islam encourages sharing the blessing of Qurbani:

• One-third for your household
• One-third for relatives and friends
• One-third for the poor and needy

This ensures the joy of Eid reaches every level of society.

Qurbani vs Charity – What’s the Difference?

While charity (sadaqah) is virtuous, Qurbani cannot be replaced by donating money. The act of sacrifice itself is a distinct form of worship tied to Eid al-Adha.

However, many Muslims choose to perform Qurbani through trusted charities, especially for overseas distribution ensuring both the ritual and social benefit are fulfilled.

Spiritual Lessons of Qurbani

Qurbani teaches Muslims:

• Sincerity over symbolism
• Submission over ego
• Giving over keeping
• Faith over fear

It is a reminder that true success lies in obedience to Allah and service to humanity.

Summary

Qurbani (Udhiya) is a powerful Islamic ritual that blends faith, sacrifice, and compassion. By honoring the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim, Muslims renew their commitment to Allah, support the needy, and strengthen the bonds of the global Ummah.

Performed with sincerity, Qurbani becomes far more than a sacrifice it becomes a pathway to nearness with Allah.

Qurbani Fulfilment via IslamFreedom.org

Please note that while this page explains the Islamic rulings, meaning, and guidance of Qurbani (Udhiya), the actual fulfilment of Qurbani is carried out separately through IslamFreedom.org.

IslamFreedom.org facilitates Qurbani on behalf of donors by arranging the sacrifice in accordance with Islamic requirements, ensuring:

• Eligible animals are selected
• Sacrifice is performed within the prescribed days
• Meat is distributed to those in need

For Qurbani order, fulfilment details, and distribution information, please visit IslamFreedom.org directly.