Introduction Aqiqah, also spelled Aqeeqah, is of great importance in Islam as a religious act of gratitude and celebration of childbirth. It is a Sunnah, accepted practice of the Prophet Muhammad. (May peace be upon you) which includes animal sacrifice and Distribute meat to relatives? Making aqiqah for neighbors and the poor is not only a cultural tradition. But it is also a way of expressing gratitude to Allah for blessing the newborn baby. And has profound spiritual and social significance. This article delves into the importance of aqiqah. Its origin and why should Muslims practice this?

The Origin and Religious Basis of Aqiqah Aqiqah is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. Dating back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad. (May peace be upon you?) Several hadith (sayings of the Prophet) emphasize the importance of this work. A well-known hadith regarding Aqiqah is narrated by Samurah Ibn Jundub (may Allah be pleased with him) where the Prophet (Peace be upon him) said:

“Every boy has a contract for his aqiqah that he shall be slaughtered on the seventh day, shave his head and give his name. (Sunan Abu Dawud 2837) 2”

 This hadith emphasizes the deeds prescribed for the newly born Aqīqah. In principle Do it on the 7th day after giving birth. But if you can’t do it. It can be done later without time constraints. Usually the sacrifice was a sheep or goat sacrifice for a young girl. and a sheep or goat for a boy.

Significance of Aqiqah

Thankfulness to Allah

Aqiqah serves as an expression of gratitude to Allah for giving the child to the parents. in islam Giving birth to a child is considered a great blessing. And doing aqeeqah is one way of thanking Allah for His grace. It reflects the recognition that all things, including children, come from the mercy of Allah.

Child protection

It is believed that Akika serves to protect newborn babies from evil and danger. Sacrifice means receiving Allah’s blessings for the welfare and protection of the child throughout his life.

Fulfilling the Sunnah

 Following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is an important part of Islamic life. Performing Aqiqah is one way of fulfilling the Prophet’s Sunnah and is in line with his teachings. By observing this action The Master displayed obedience to the guidelines established for the benefit of the community.

Promote community spirit

Aqiqah provides an opportunity for social bonding. Sacrificial meat was distributed to family members, friends, neighbours and the poor, promoting a sense of community and charity. It reflects the Islamic principle of kindness and sharing the blessings received with others.

Shaving a child’s head

In addition to sacrifice The Sunnah also requires the head of a newborn baby to be shaved as part of the aqeqah ceremony. The shaved hair is donated to charity in the equivalent of money. This act symbolizes purification and a new beginning in the child’s life. It also emphasizes the importance of charity from the beginning of a child’s existence.

Why Perform Aqiqah?

Following the example of the prophets

Prophet Muhammad (May peace be upon him) made aqiqah for his grandsons Hasan and Husain and encouraged his followers to do the same for their children. Muslim: Following the guidance of the Prophet is the way to receive the pleasure and blessings of Allah. A ruler who performs aqiqah continues a tradition that has spiritual and moral values.

Thank you for your child’s blessing.

In Islam the birth of a child is considered one of the greatest blessings. Aqiqah is a way of thanking Allah and seeking His protection for a newborn baby. It shows acceptance of Allah’s grace. We serve as a reminder that children are the trust of Allah. For which parents must be responsible…

 Charity and sharing with the underprivileged

Distributing meat to the poor and needy is an important aspect of Āqiqah. Charity is a pillar of the Islamic faith and aqiqah offers parents the opportunity to engage in charitable work on behalf of their children. This giving will not only benefit the few who share. But it also brings blessings to the family and instils the value of kindness from the beginning of your child’s life…

 Create a bond with the community

Aqiqah is also a social occasion where families can celebrate the birth of a child together with relatives and friends. Strengthens bonds within the community and promotes unity and unity. This is in line with Islamic values ​​of supporting one another and building good community relations.

Spiritual cleansing for children

 According to some Islamic scholars, performing aqiqah helps children to be spiritually cleansed and protected from bad luck. Children are seen as a way to begin life with blessings and in a state of purity.

How to do Aqiqah

Time:

Aqiqah should be performed on the seventh day after childbirth. However, if the parents are unable to perform it on the seventh day, it can be performed later. This action can be applied at any point in a child’s life. Although it must be completed as soon as possible.

Animal sacrifice

It is recommended that two sheep or goats be used as an offering for the male child. while one sheep or goat is enough for a girl. Animals must be healthy and meet the same criteria used for Qurbani. (Sacrifice during Eid and Adha) The meat is then distributed and portioned to the poor, family and friends.

Shave your head

After the sacrifice The child’s head is shaved and the silver hair given away for charity. This is another Sunnah act that is part of the Akeeqah ceremony. It is believed to bring blessings to newborn babies.

Naming a child

During Aqiqah, the child’s name is usually announced. Islamic tradition attaches great importance to choosing a good name with a positive meaning. Because of their various names. It is said to have an effect on a person’s character and life…

Conclusion

In Islam, Aqiqah is a beautiful tradition that serves several purposes, such as expressing gratitude to Allah. Promote a sense of community To ensure the child’s welfare and to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad. (Peace be upon you.) This action improves the spiritual life of parents and newborns. It also gives blessings and protection. It should be the goal of every Muslim family to do aqiqah.