What is Qurbani in Islam?
Qurbani, also known as Udhiya, is the sacrifice of an animal carried out during Eid al-Adha, between the 10th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. It goes back to the test of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son out of obedience to Allah.
This isn’t something that developed as a cultural practice over time. It is a defined act of worship with clear conditions. The animal must meet specific standards in terms of health and age, the sacrifice has to be done within the prescribed days, and it must follow Islamic guidelines for it to be valid.
Scholars differ slightly on how it is classified. In the Hanafi school, Qurbani is considered wajib for those who are financially able. In the Shafi’i, Hanbali, and Maliki schools, it is regarded as a highly emphasised Sunnah. Despite this difference, it is widely treated as an important act of worship that should not be ignored by those who can afford it.
Why Do We Do Qurbani?
Qurbani is sometimes described as a tradition; however, it is based on a religious obligation in Islam.
Qur’an places sacrifice alongside prayer, making its importance clear,
“So pray to your Lord and sacrifice to Him alone.” – Surah Al-Kawthar (108:2)
This places Qurbani firmly within acts of worship. It is directly linked to obedience to Allah, just like salah, which shows how seriously it is meant to be taken.
But beyond the instruction itself, Qurbani requires a level of submission that is easy to speak about but harder to act on. The example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is not just about sacrifice; it is about putting Allah’s command above personal attachment.
That same principle applies today. Giving Qurbani means letting go of something of value for the sake of Allah, not because there is a visible return, but because it is part of fulfilling that responsibility.
Why Qurbani on Eid ul Adha?
Qurbani is carried out during Eid al-Adha, after the completion of Hajj, specifically between the 10th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.
Both Hajj and Qurbani come from the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and take place within the same days. During Hajj, pilgrims perform a sacrifice (Hady) as part of the rites in Mina. At the same time, Muslims around the world carry out Qurbani, which makes it a shared act of worship during this period.
Qurbani has to be performed within these specific days and is not valid outside them. It must also take place after the Eid prayer. If it is done before the prayer, it does not count as Qurbani.
Importance of Qurbani in Islam
The importance of Qurbani in Islam lies in what it requires from a person and the impact it creates for others. The Qur’an makes it clear in Surah Hajj that Allah does not need the meat or the blood. What matters is the sincerity and true intention behind the act, not the act on its own.
A key part of the importance of Qurbani is how it makes sure that the benefits of Eid are shared beyond those who can afford it. In many parts of the world, meat is not a regular part of a household’s diet and is often out of reach. For some, Eid is the only time they receive it through the efforts of a charity organisation. So, with the help of an able Muslim’s donation, Qurbani also allow others who cannot afford to take part in the occasion with dignity.
Benefits of Qurbani
Qurbani has clear benefits, not just for the person giving it, but also for those who receive it.
From a spiritual perspective, Qurbani emphasises sincerity. It is an act carried out purely for the sake of Allah, without expectation of recognition or personal gain. This removes any part of showing off and places full focus on intention.
On a social level, Qurbani provides meat to families who cannot afford it as part of their regular diet. In many low-income communities, this is not a small addition; it is something they go without for long periods. During Eid, Qurbani ensures they receive it as part of an organised distribution yearly, rather than occasional or uncertain support. This also affects how Eid is experienced. Instead of the occasion highlighting differences in financial ability, Qurbani helps narrow that gap by making sure more households are able to take part in a similar way.
There is also an economic benefit. Qurbani supports local systems by increasing demand for livestock and related services. Farmers, traders, and workers involved in transport and distribution all benefit during this period. This circulation of wealth strengthens local economies, particularly in rural areas.
On a personal level, Qurbani changes how a person views their wealth. It requires giving from one’s own resources without any material return. This reinforces the understanding that wealth is not only for personal comfort but also a responsibility. It breaks the habit of holding onto resources and encourages a more balanced approach to spending.
So, when people talk about the significance of Qurbani, these outcomes show that it is not limited to a single benefit. It influences how a person acts, how communities function, and how resources are shared.
Donate Qurbani Through CLF
The reasons why is Qurbani important all point to one thing that belief is not enough on its own; it’s all about action.
At CLF, the responsibility of Qurbani is taken seriously. We make sure that every sacrifice is carried out correctly and reaches those who genuinely need it, including families, orphans, widows, refugees, the homeless, and the jobless in underserved and vulnerable communities.
Our Qurbani donations start from as low as £90 for a small animal and £22 for a single share in a large animal (1/7 share). We handle the process from start to finish so that your Qurbani is not just completed but delivered where it actually matters.
Donate your Qurbani today and make sure it reaches the people who are facing hardships on a daily basis.
