Qurbani (Udhiya) Spirit / Virtue / Dua’aQurbani
Eid ul Azha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a significant religious celebration Muslims observe worldwide. One of the essential rituals of this auspicious occasion is Qurbani, where livestock is sacrificed as an act of devotion and gratitude to Allah SWT. While performing Qurbani, it is crucial to adhere to proper etiquette and guidelines to ensure that the sacrifice is carried out respectfully and meaningfully. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of etiquette in Qurbani during Eid ul Adha.
Why Is the Qurbani /Sacrifice Important in Islam
Qurbani, also known as Udiyah in Arabic is the practice of sacrificing an animal for Allah SWT . It is one of the most religious rituals practiced by financially stable Muslims for the sake of the almighty. According to Islamic law, Qurbani or Udiyah refers to the sacrifice of a specific animal, by a specific person on a specific day. Qurbani is not just butchering an animal and distributing its meat, but drawing oneself near to Allah SWT . To gain Allah’s goodness, blessing, and pleasure, the practice of sacrificing animals such as goats, camel, sheep, and cows is fulfilled by Muslims.
Understanding the Purpose of Qurbani: Before discussing etiquette, it is essential to comprehend the underlying purpose of Qurbani. The act of sacrifice symbolizes Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience to Allah’s command. It represents submission, gratitude, and the willingness to give up something dear to us for the sake of Allah.
What is the major significance of Qurbani?
God tells us in the Quran the three most significant aspects of Qurbani
- What, why and how our Qurbani (uḍḥiya) should take place
- The spiritual value of the act of Qurbani sacrifice
- The expected outcomes from the meat of the Qurbani sacrifice
the beginning of a supplication found in the Quran in Surah Al-An’am (6:79). The complete dua is as follows:
إِنِّي وَجَّهْتُ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي فَطَرَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ حَنِيفًا وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ “Inni wajjahtu wajhiya lilladhee fataras-samawaati wal-arda haneefan wamaa ana minal-mushrikeen.”
Translation: “Indeed, I have turned my face toward the One who created the heavens and the earth, inclining toward truth, and I am not of those who associate others with Allah.”
The Islamic method of slaughter, known as Halal slaughter, involves specific guidelines and prayers. Here is a step-by-step guide on the process along with the supplications (duaas):
- Intention: The person performing the sacrifice should have a sincere intention for the sake of Allah.
- Choosing an Animal: Select a healthy animal that meets the criteria for sacrifice (e.g., a sheep, goat, cow, or camel). The animal should be free from any defects or illnesses.
- Preparation: Ensure that the knife used for slaughtering is very sharp and clean. Also, make sure the animal is calm and comfortable.
- Facing the Qibla: The person performing the sacrifice should face the Qibla (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca) while reciting the supplications.
- Reciting the Supplication (Duaa) before Slaughtering: The following dua can be recited:
بِسْمِ اللهِ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ Bismillahi Allahu Akbar (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest)
- Slaughtering: Swiftly and skillfully cut the animal’s throat, ensuring that the main blood vessels are severed while the spinal cord remains intact. This method is intended to ensure the animal’s welfare and quick and humane death.
- Reciting the Supplication (Duaa) after Slaughtering: After the animal has been slaughtered, the following dua can be recited:
اللَّهُمَّ تَقَبَّلْ مِنِّي كَمَا تَقَبَّلْتَ مِنْ خَلِيلِكَ إِبْرَاهِيمَ Allahumma taqabbal minni kama taqabbalta min khalilika Ibrahim. (O Allah, accept from me as You accepted from Your friend, Ibrahim.)
- Butchering and Distribution: The animal is then skinned, cleaned, and divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the less fortunate.
It’s important to note that these guidelines may vary slightly among different Islamic cultures and regions. It’s advisable to consult with local scholars or Islamic authorities for specific practices and recommendations.
Remember that intention, sincerity, and adherence to Islamic principles are essential throughout the process.
How should we distribute the meat of our Qurbani sacrifice?
In the short term, here are some key steps to distribute the meat of your Qurbani sacrifice:
- Divide the Meat: Begin by dividing the meat into manageable portions. This can be done based on the number of shares or the size of each family or individual’s portion.
- Personal Consumption: Allocate a portion of the meat for your own family’s consumption. Set aside the amount you desire to keep for your own use.
- Needy and Poor: Identify and reach out to individuals or organizations that serve the needy and poor in your community. Distribute a significant portion of the meat to them, ensuring that it reaches those who are most deserving.
- Friends, Relatives, and Neighbors: Share the remaining meat with your close friends, relatives, and immediate neighbors. Divide the meat among them, taking into account the quantity each family or individual would require.
- Islamic Institutions: If there are local Islamic institutions like mosques, Islamic schools, or orphanages that organize meat distribution programs, contact them to inquire about their needs. Offer a portion of the meat to support their initiatives.
- Efficient Distribution: Plan a distribution day and organize the logistics accordingly. Ensure that the meat is appropriately packaged, labeled, and distributed in a fair and orderly manner.
Remember, the main objective is to distribute the meat in a way that benefits the needy, strengthens social ties, and promotes a sense of community. Always prioritize those who are most deserving and ensure an equitable distribution process.
Cultivating a Spirit of Gratitude and Humility: Qurbani serves as a reminder of the blessings bestowed upon us and the importance of gratitude. It is essential to perform Qurbani with a humble and grateful mindset, recognizing the value of the sacrifice and its spiritual significance. Remembering the less fortunate during this time helps cultivate empathy and a sense of gratitude for one’s blessings.
Observing proper etiquette during Qurbani enhances the spiritual experience and reinforces the values of compassion, kindness, and gratitude that lie at the heart of Eid ul Azha. By following these guidelines, Muslims can ensure that the act of sacrifice is performed with reverence and in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May the spirit of Eid ul Azha inspire us all to be more compassionate, generous, and devoted to Allah’s commands.
Significance/Importance of Slaughter/Sacrifice
- Obedience and Submission to Allah:
The act of sacrifice during Eid ul-Adha signifies the obedience and submission of Muslims to the commands of Allah. Muslims emulate the obedience demonstrated by Hazrat Ibrahim a.s when he was willing to sacrifice his son, as commanded by Allah. The Quran states:
“So We gave him good tidings of a forbearing boy. And when he reached with him [the age of] exertion, he said, ‘O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think.’ He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.'” (Quran 37:101-102)
- Trust and Reliance on Allah:
The act of sacrifice also symbolizes the trust and reliance Muslims place in Allah’s divine plan. Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering trust in Allah’s guidance and provision is exemplified when Allah substitutes the sacrifice of his son with a ram. The Quran states:
“And when they had both submitted and he put him down upon his forehead, We called to him, ‘O Ibrahim, you have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good.” (Quran 37:103)
- Gratitude and Thankfulness:
Muslims express gratitude and thankfulness to Allah for His blessings through the act of sacrifice. By sacrificing an animal, Muslims acknowledge Allah’s countless blessings and provisions. The Quran states:
“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good.” (Quran 22:37)
- Sharing and Generosity:
Eid ul-Adha promotes the spirit of sharing and generosity. After the sacrifice, the meat is divided into three parts: one part is kept for the family, one part is shared with relatives and friends, and one part is given to the poor and needy. This practice fosters community bonds and ensures that everyone can partake in the joy of Eid.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of Eid ul-Adha than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns, hair, and hooves. The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood reaches the ground. So, sacrifice with an open and happy heart.”
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi)