Qurbani is a form of worship in Islam that takes place during the time of Eid al-Adha. What is Qurbani, though, and why is it so important to Muslims around the world? This Qurbani guide by Community Lighthouse Foundation hopes to help you understand more about this religious practice and the purpose behind it.
What is Qurbani? Well, in short, Qurbani is the sacrifice of an animal done in the name of Allah, for the sake of Allah, during the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah. This act reminds us of faith, along with showing kindness to others. It is about giving and sharing with those in need and distributing the meat to families who may not be able to afford it, allowing them to also celebrate the day of Eid with dignity.
It is also important to note that Qurbani is not just about the sacrifice alone, but about the remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his obedience to Allah.
The story of Ibrahim (AS) is at the heart of Qurbani and its practice. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had a dream in which he was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS). This was a test of his faith and obedience.
Despite the challenge in this task, Ibrahim (AS) showed his complete trust in Allah. At the moment of sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram. Allah mentions this moment in the Quran when He says, “And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” [Quran 37:107]
This powerful moment, known as the Ibrahim sacrifice, is remembered every year through Qurbani. The story of this sacrifice is to teach the believers what it means to have true faith in Allah and to put Him above all else.
The importance of Qurbani goes beyond the physical act of it. It is a means to get closer to Allah and strengthen one's faith. Qurbani also teaches us to practice patience and compassion.
Allah tells us in the Quran “So pray and sacrifice to your Lord alone.” (Quran 108:2) It is an act of devotion, but also a reminder to the believers that they have to care for others, especially those facing hardship.
So, is Qurbani compulsory? Scholars have different views on this subject. In the Hanafi Schools of Thought, Qurbani is obligatory upon Muslims who can afford it. However, in other Schools of Thought, it is a highly recommended Sunnah.
What is agreed upon by the scholarly belief is that if you have the financial means, you should give Qurbani, as it is a chance to fulfil an act of worship and also support those in need.
Understanding when to give Qurbani is key. Qurbani takes place every year in Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. To be precise, it must be performed on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, the day of Eid al-Adha, after its morning prayer.
The sacrifice can take place up until the evening of the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Any sacrifice before the Eid prayer and after the evening of 13th Dhul Hijjah is deemed invalid.
It’s also worth noting that the days of Qurbani are significant days within the Islamic calendar in which acts of charity and worship are greatly rewarded.
Many wonder how much is Qurbani? The cost entirely depends on the type of animal you choose to sacrifice and the country in which the sacrifice will be carried out. A sheep or goat usually counts as one share, whilst a cow, buffalo, or camel can be shared between up to 7 people.
Many charities, such as Community Lighthouse Foundation, offer affordable options, making it easy for you to fulfil your duty and donate your Qurbani, ensuring your sacrifice can reach those who need it most.
When you donate Qurbani, you are fulfilling a religious duty, along with helping families in need across the world. For many vulnerable people, Eid is the only time of the year in which they are able to enjoy a nutritious meal that includes meat.
Your Qurbani donation has the means to bring joy and hope to those facing poverty. This simple act by you has the chance to make a lasting impact.
Donate your Qurbani now to Community Lighthouse Foundation.
Yes, you can give Qurbani as a donation. Community Lighthouse Foundation accept donations for Qurbani where we carry out the sacrifice on your behalf and then distribute the meat to those most in need.
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