1. What is Qurbani?
Qurbani, or Udhiyah, is an Islamic practice of sacrificing an animal during Eid al-Adha. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah (Quran 37:102-107).
2. Who is required to perform Qurbani?
Qurbani is obligatory for every adult Muslim who is financially able to do so. This is based on the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who said, “If someone has the means to perform Qurbani but does not do it, he should not come near our Eid prayer place” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3143).
3. Can I perform Qurbani on behalf of someone else?
Yes, it is permissible to perform Qurbani on behalf of others, including deceased family members, provided you are financially able. This is supported by various hadiths, such as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performing Qurbani on behalf of his family and others (Sahih Muslim 1961).
4. What animals are acceptable for Qurbani?
Acceptable animals for Qurbani include sheep, goats, cows, and camels. They must meet specific age and health requirements. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The Qurbani is a Sunnah of your father Ibrahim” (Sahih Muslim 1967).
5. What is the minimum age for the animals used in Qurbani?
The minimum age requirements are:
Sheep and goats: at least one year old.
Buffaloes: at least two years old.
Camels: at least five years old.
This is based on the hadith where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) specified the age requirements for animals (Sahih al-Bukhari 5550).
6. Can Qurbani be performed in my country, or must it be done in Mecca?
Qurbani can be performed anywhere, not just in Mecca. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performed Qurbani in Medina, and it is permissible to do so in your local area (Sahih al-Bukhari 5550).
7. When should Qurbani be performed?
Qurbani should be performed after the Eid al-Adha prayer and before the sunset of the 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The first thing we do on this day of ours is to offer the Eid prayer” (Sahih Muslim 1141).
8. How should the animal be slaughtered for Qurbani?
The animal should be slaughtered in accordance with Islamic guidelines, which include reciting “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) and “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest) before slaughtering, and ensuring the animal is treated humanely (Quran 6:121, Sahih al-Bukhari 5516).
9. Can Qurbani be done for a newborn baby?
Yes, Qurbani can be performed on behalf of newborns. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sacrificed two rams for his grandsons, Hasan and Husayn, indicating that it is permissible to perform Qurbani for infants (Sunan Abu Dawood 2836).
10. What is the reward for performing Qurbani?
Performing Qurbani is a means of earning great rewards and blessings from Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “There is nothing dearer to Allah on the Day of Sacrifice than the sacrifice of an animal” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3127).
11. Can Qurbani be performed online or through a third party?
Yes, Qurbani can be performed online or through a third party, provided the service follows Islamic guidelines. Many organizations offer Qurbani services, ensuring the requirements are met (Sahih al-Bukhari 5550).
12. What should I do if I can’t afford Qurbani?
If you cannot afford Qurbani, it is not obligatory for you. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that Qurbani is for those who have the means (Sahih al-Bukhari 5550).
13. Is it necessary to fast before performing Qurbani?
Fasting is not required before performing Qurbani. However, it is recommended to avoid cutting hair or nails from the 1st of Dhu al-Hijjah until the Qurbani is done (Sahih Muslim 1977).
14. Can I use the meat from Qurbani for personal consumption?
Yes, you can consume the meat from Qurbani, but it is recommended to distribute a portion to the poor and needy as well. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Eat and feed others” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5550).
15. How should the meat of Qurbani be distributed?
The meat should be divided into three parts: one-third for yourself and your family, one-third to be given to relatives, and one-third to be distributed to the poor and needy (Sahih al-Bukhari 5550).