Sacrifice, or Qurbani, is a deeply significant act in Islam, symbolizing obedience, devotion, and the willingness to surrender to Allah’s will. It commemorates the profound story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail, where Ibrahim’s unwavering faith led him to offer his beloved son in sacrifice to Allah. This act of Qurbani is an integral part of Eid al-Adha, observed by Muslims worldwide.
However, the practice of Qurbani is governed by specific rules and regulations that must be adhered to, ensuring that the sacrifice is performed correctly and in accordance with Islamic teachings. This blog post explores the seven essential rules of sacrifice in Islam, supported by relevant verses from the Holy Quran.
1. Intention and Sincerity (Niyyah)
The foundation of any act in Islam, including Qurbani, is the intention behind it. The act must be performed solely for the sake of Allah, with a sincere heart and pure intention. This principle is encapsulated in the concept of Niyyah, which is a crucial aspect of Islamic worship.
Quranic Verse
“لَنْ يَنَالَ اللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَلَكِنْ يَنَالُهُ التَّقْوَىٰ مِنْكُمْ”
“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you.”
(Surah Al-Hajj 22:37)
This verse emphasizes that the physical aspects of sacrifice are secondary to the spiritual devotion and consciousness of Allah. The sincerity of one’s intention is what truly matters in the eyes of Allah.
2. Eligible Animals for Sacrifice
Islam specifies certain types of animals that can be sacrificed. The permissible animals include sheep, goats, cows, and camels. These animals must meet specific age and health criteria to be considered valid for Qurbani.
- Sheep and goats must be at least one year old.
- Cows and buffaloes must be at least two years old.
- Camels must be at least five years old.
Quranic Verse
“وَلِكُلِّ أُمَّةٍ جَعَلْنَا مَنْسَكًا لِيَذْكُرُوا اسْمَ اللَّهِ عَلَىٰ مَا رَزَقَهُمْ مِنْ بَهِيمَةِ الْأَنْعَامِ”
“And for every nation We have appointed a rite [of sacrifice] that they may mention the name of Allah over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals.”
(Surah Al-Hajj 22:34)
This verse indicates that the act of sacrifice is a divinely appointed ritual, with specific animals designated for this purpose.
3. Animal Health and Condition
The animal chosen for Qurbani must be free from any defects or illnesses. It should not be blind, lame, sick, or have broken limbs. The health and well-being of the sacrificial animal are crucial to ensure that the sacrifice is pure and acceptable.
Quranic Verse
“يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُلُوا مِنْ طَيِّبَاتِ مَا رَزَقْنَاكُمْ وَاشْكُرُوا لِلَّهِ إِنْ كُنْتُمْ إِيَّاهُ تَعْبُدُونَ”
“O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:172)
This verse highlights the importance of offering good and pure things to Allah, including the animals selected for sacrifice.
4. Timing of the Sacrifice
The timing of Qurbani is a critical aspect of the ritual. The sacrifice should be performed after the Eid prayer on the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. The sacrifice must be done within this specific period, as performing it before the Eid prayer or after the designated days renders it invalid.
Quranic Verse
“فَصَلِّ لِرَبِّكَ وَانْحَرْ”
“So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].”
(Surah Al-Kawthar 108:2)
This verse underscores the importance of performing the sacrifice at the appointed time, following the act of worship and prayer.
5. Distribution of the Meat
The meat of the sacrificed animal should be divided into three equal parts: one part for the family, one part for relatives and friends, and one part for the poor and needy. This distribution emphasizes the importance of sharing and caring for others, especially the less fortunate.
Quranic Verse
“وَيُؤْثِرُونَ عَلَىٰ أَنْفُسِهِمْ وَلَوْ كَانَ بِهِمْ خَصَاصَةٌ”
“But [instead], they give preference to them over themselves, even though they are in privation.”
(Surah Al-Hashr 59:9)
This verse illustrates the virtue of generosity and selflessness, encouraging Muslims to share their blessings with others.
6. Method of Slaughter
The method of slaughter in Qurbani must adhere to Islamic guidelines. The animal must be slaughtered by a sane Muslim, and the name of Allah must be invoked at the time of slaughter. The act should be performed swiftly and humanely, ensuring that the animal suffers the least amount of pain.
Quranic Verse
“وَلَا تَأْكُلُوا مِمَّا لَمْ يُذْكَرِ اسْمُ اللَّهِ عَلَيْهِ وَإِنَّهُ لَفِسْقٌ”
“And do not eat of that upon which the name of Allah has not been mentioned, for indeed, it is grave disobedience.”
(Surah Al-An’am 6:121)
This verse emphasizes the importance of invoking Allah’s name during the act of slaughter, making the sacrifice lawful and acceptable.
7. Avoiding Wastefulness
Islam teaches moderation and discourages wastefulness. During Qurbani, care should be taken to ensure that no part of the animal is wasted unnecessarily. All parts of the animal should be utilized, and any surplus meat should be distributed or preserved appropriately.
Quranic Verse
“إِنَّ الْمُبَذِّرِينَ كَانُوا إِخْوَانَ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَكَانَ الشَّيْطَانُ لِرَبِّهِ كَفُورًا”
“Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:27)
This verse serves as a reminder to avoid extravagance and waste, promoting the responsible use of resources.
Conclusion
The act of Qurbani is a profound expression of faith and devotion in Islam. By adhering to these seven essential rules, Muslims ensure that their sacrifice is performed in accordance with Islamic teachings, reflecting their sincerity and obedience to Allah. The ritual of Qurbani not only honors the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail but also reinforces the values of compassion, generosity, and mindfulness. As Muslims around the world partake in this sacred practice, they are reminded of the spiritual and communal significance of sacrifice, striving to embody the principles of Islam in their daily lives.
