Qurbani 2025

Q1: What is Udhiyah (Qurbani)?

It refers to the act of slaughtering an animal (a camel, cow, sheep or goat) for the sake of Allah on the 10^th of Dhu’l-Hijjah in Islamic Calendar. 

Q2: Why is so importance of Udhiyah (Qurbani)?

Sacrificing an animal for the sake of Allah is one of the acts most loved by Allah. Udhiyah (Qurbani) is a very important act as the sunnah is to give part of it as charity, a part of it as a gift, and a part of it is to be consumed by the one sacrificing. Some people in poor countries do not eat meat throughout the year due to its expensive nature except when they receive Udhiyah (Qurbani).

Q3: Is it compulsory to sacrifice an animal?

It is a strongly well-known Sunnah that people should practice especially as it is a representation of Islam. Some scholars believe that it becomes an obligation if someone can afford an animal to sacrifice.

Q4: What about cutting hair and nail before sacrificing Udhiyah (Qurbani)?

It is reported in Sahih Muslim that Umm Salamah, the wife of the Prophet (peace be upon him) narrated that the Prophet said, “When the month of Dhu’l-Hijjah starts, if one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, let him refrain from (cutting) his hair and nails.” If anyone cuts his hair or nails by mistake, or out of ignorance, then he should still sacrifice the Udhiyah (Qurbani).

Q5: Is there any compensation for cutting one’s hair or nails if intending to sacrifice an animal?

There is no compensation that should be offered and the person should still offer the sacrifice as its validity and acceptability to Allah is not contingent on having left one’s hair or nails uncut.

Q6: What is the wisdom behind avoiding cutting the hair or the nails?

Scholars have mentioned different types of wisdoms. People in hajj refrain from similar acts and it is the wisdom of Allah that He wants other people who are unable to travel for the Hajj to have a similar opportunity to gain reward. If people observe these actions, they will be connected to the Hajj and the people on Hajj.

Q7: Who should pay the Udhiyah (Qurbani) within a household?

Scholars such Malik, al-Shaf’ii, and Ahmad have agreed that one sacrifice is sufficient on behalf of all the members of a household. As al-Tirmidhi narrated that ‘Ata’ ibn Yassaar said,“I asked Abu Ayyub, “How was the sacrifice conducted at the time of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)?” He said, “A man would offer a sheep on behalf of himself and the members of his family, and they would eat some and feed others with some.

Q8: Which one is better to sacrifice the Udhiyah (Qurbani) in the Western or to authorize someone to do it on our behalf in a Muslim country, so more poor people can benefit from it?

There are two purposes to sacrifice, one it is to show gratitude and obedience to Allah and secondly to enjoy the eating of meat that might not be eaten frequently on other days.

However, there are some other exceptions that might be applied this, if there is a need in other countries, then it may be better for the person to send his udhiyah (Qurbani) to those who suffer from famine.

Q9: What shall we do with the meat of the Udhiyah (Qurbani)?

It is prescribed for the person who offers the sacrifice to eat some of the meat, and to give some as gifts including charities, because Allah says,

“Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor having a hard time.”

Q10: Can we buy a lamb from the butchers shop and then intend it as an Udhiyah (Qurbani)?

The animal has to be slaughtered with the intention of an udhiyah (Qurbani) and it is an act of worship that cannot be accepted without a specific intention. It cannot be slaughtered with one intention and then intended as something different.

Q11: Can we give non-Muslims some of the meat of the Udhiyah (Qurbani)?

It should generally be given to Muslims with some jurists having allowed for it to be given to non-Muslims if they are not fighting against Islam.