Qurbani and Aqiqah are two important Islamic rituals that involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT). Both of them have many benefits and rewards for the Muslims who perform them and the people who receive them. However, they also have some differences and similarities that you should know. In this article, we will explain what Qurbani and Aqiqah are, why they are performed, how they are performed, and what are their differences and similarities.
Qurbani and Aqiqah: Understanding Islamic Sacrifices
Qurbani and Aqiqah are significant acts of worship in Islam, both involving animal sacrifice to demonstrate devotion to Allah. While sharing the common thread of sacrifice, they differ in their purpose, timing, and requirements. Understanding these nuances allows Muslims to fulfill these obligations with knowledge and intention. This guide explores the essence of Qurbani and Aqiqah, their underlying wisdom, the proper procedures for performing them, and the key distinctions between them.
The Essence of Qurbani: Sacrifice and Remembrance
Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal during the days of Eid al-Adha, which is the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. Qurbani is an obligatory duty for every Muslim who has reached puberty and has enough wealth to afford it. Qurbani is a way of following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) for the sake of Allah (SWT), but Allah (SWT) replaced him with a ram. Qurbani is also a way of expressing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His blessings and mercy.
Qurbani serves multiple purposes
- Commemoration of Ibrahim’s Sacrifice: It reminds us of unwavering faith and submission to Allah’s will.
- Expression of Gratitude: It is an expression of thankfulness to Allah for His blessings and provisions.
- Act of Charity: The meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed to the poor and needy, fostering compassion and social responsibility.
What is Aqiqah?
Aqiqah is the act of sacrificing an animal on the occasion of a child’s birth. It is a recommended sunnah for every Muslim who can afford it. Aqiqah should be performed on the seventh day after the birth of the child, or as soon as possible after that. Aqiqah is a way of celebrating the birth of a child and giving thanks to Allah (SWT) for His gift. Aqiqah is also a way of protecting the child from harm and evil.
The Aqiqah holds deep meaning
- Thanksgiving to Allah: It expresses sincere gratitude for the blessing of a child.
- Protection for the Child: It is believed to protect the child from harm and misfortune.
- Strengthening Community Bonds: The meat from the Aqiqah is shared with family, friends, and the less fortunate, fostering community spirit.
Why Perform Qurbani and Aqiqah?
Qurbani and Aqiqah have many benefits and rewards for both the performers and the recipients. Here are some of them:
- Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of worship that bring one closer to Allah (SWT) and earn His pleasure and forgiveness.
- Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of charity that help feed the poor and needy and share the joy with them.
- Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of obedience that follow the sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and show love and devotion to them.
- Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of purification that cleanse one from sins and faults.
- Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of solidarity that strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity among Muslims.
Performing Qurbani: A Step-by-Step Guide
To perform Qurbani correctly, adhere to these guidelines:
- Eligible Animals: Acceptable animals for Qurbani include sheep, goats, cows, buffaloes, and camels. The animal must be healthy and free from any significant defects.
- Age Requirements: The animal must have reached the required age: one year for sheep and goats, two years for cows and buffaloes, and five years for camels.
- Intention (Niyyah): Make a clear intention to perform Qurbani solely for the pleasure of Allah.
- Timing: The sacrifice must take place between the Eid al-Adha prayer and sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah.
- Slaughtering: The animal should be slaughtered humanely by a Muslim, severing the throat, windpipe, and major blood vessels while reciting “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
- Distribution of Meat: The meat should be divided into three portions: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy.
Performing Aqiqah: Honoring the Newborn
Follow these guidelines when performing Aqiqah:
- Timing: The Aqiqah is ideally performed on the seventh day after the child’s birth. If this is not possible, it can be done at any time later.
- Animal Selection: Choose a healthy animal, similar to Qurbani animals.
- Number of Animals: According to some scholars, it is recommended to sacrifice two animals for a boy and one animal for a girl. However, sacrificing one animal for either gender is also permissible.
- Slaughtering: Perform the slaughtering in accordance with Islamic guidelines, reciting “Bismillah Allahu Akbar.”
- Distribution of Meat: The meat is typically cooked and shared with family, friends, neighbors, and the poor. A feast (Walima) can be arranged to celebrate the occasion.
- Shaving the Head: It is Sunnah to shave the baby’s head on the seventh day and give charity equivalent to the weight of the hair in silver.
What are the Differences and Similarities Between Qurbani and Aqiqah?
Qurbani and Aqiqah have some differences and similarities that can be summarized as follows:
- Qurbani is obligatory for every Muslim who has reached puberty and has enough wealth to afford it; Aqiqah is recommended for every Muslim who can afford it.
- Qurbani is performed during the days of Eid al-Adha; Aqiqah is performed on the occasion of a child’s birth.
- Qurbani is a way of following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS); Aqiqah is a way of celebrating the birth of a child.
- Qurbani requires one animal for one person or one family; Aqiqah requires two animals for a boy and one animal for a girl.
- Qurbani and Aqiqah both involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT).
- Qurbani and Aqiqah both have benefits and rewards for the performers and the recipients.
- Qurbani and Aqiqah both have rules and guidelines that should be followed to ensure their validity and acceptance.
FAQ about Islamic Guide Qurbani vs Aqiqah
1.What is Qurbani and how to perform it?
Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah, is the Islamic practice of sacrificing an animal (sheep, goat, cow, or camel) during Eid al-Adha to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah. To perform it, select a healthy, defect-free animal that meets the age requirements. Make the intention (Niyyah) solely for Allah’s pleasure. The sacrifice must take place between the Eid prayer and sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. Slaughter the animal humanely by cutting its throat while reciting “Bismillah Allahu Akbar.” Distribute the meat to family, friends, and the poor.
2. Aqiqah rules and guidelines in Islam
Aqiqah is the sacrifice of an animal to celebrate a child’s birth. It’s a Sunnah Muakkadah. Perform it ideally on the 7th day after birth, or later. Choose a healthy animal. Some scholars recommend two animals for a boy and one for a girl, but one is permissible for either gender. Slaughter humanely, reciting “Bismillah Allahu Akbar.” Cook the meat and share it with family, friends, and the needy. Shave the baby’s head and donate the equivalent weight of hair in silver to charity.
3. Difference between Qurbani and Aqiqah for a baby
Qurbani is an obligatory sacrifice during Eid al-Adha, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith, and is not specifically tied to a baby’s birth. Aqiqah, on the other hand, is a recommended sacrifice to celebrate a baby’s birth, expressing gratitude to Allah for the new life. The meat from Qurbani is distributed more widely, while Aqiqah meat is often used for a celebratory meal.
4. Best time to perform Aqiqah after birth
The most preferred time to perform Aqiqah is on the seventh day after the child’s birth. If this isn’t possible, it can be performed any time thereafter. The sooner it’s done, the better, to fulfill the Sunnah and express gratitude promptly.
5. Qurbani animal requirements and age
Qurbani animals must be healthy, free from significant defects (blindness, lameness, severe illness), and meet specific age requirements: one year for sheep and goats, two years for cows and buffaloes, and five years for camels. These conditions ensure the animal is in prime condition and the sacrifice is accepted.
6. Aqiqah sacrifice cost and expenses
The cost of Aqiqah varies greatly depending on the type of animal chosen (sheep, goat, cow), its size and quality, and the location where it is purchased. Additional expenses include slaughtering fees, cooking costs (if preparing a feast), and the cost of silver for charity (equivalent to the weight of the baby’s shaved hair).
7. Qurbani meat distribution rules in Islam
The meat from Qurbani should ideally be divided into three portions: one for the person and their family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. However, it is permissible to give all the meat to the poor and needy if desired. The key principle is to ensure that those in need benefit from the sacrifice.
8. Can I donate money instead of Qurbani?
While donating money to charity is highly encouraged in Islam and carries immense reward, it doesn’t fulfill the obligation or Sunnah of Qurbani. Qurbani specifically requires the sacrifice of an animal. Donating money is a separate, virtuous act.
9. Aqiqah for a girl vs boy
The prevailing scholarly opinion suggests sacrificing two animals for a boy and one animal for a girl. This distinction is based on some Hadith. However, sacrificing one animal for either gender is also considered permissible and fulfills the essence of Aqiqah.
10. Qurbani online donation trusted sources
When donating for Qurbani online, choose reputable Islamic charities and organizations with a proven track record. Look for transparency in their operations, clear information on how donations are used, and accountability in their reporting. Some well-known and trusted sources include Islamic Relief, Muslim Aid, and Zakat Foundation of America. Check local masjids and Islamic centers, they may have trusted sources as well.
11. Aqiqah celebration and Islamic traditions
Aqiqah is a joyous occasion. Islamic traditions include sacrificing the animal, cooking the meat, and hosting a meal (Walima) for family, friends, and neighbors. It’s also customary to shave the baby’s head, give the hair’s weight in silver to charity, and give the child a good name. Prayers and supplications for the child’s well-being are also part of the celebration.
12. Qurbani benefits and importance in Islam
Qurbani is an act of worship that commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion, expresses gratitude to Allah, and provides sustenance to the poor and needy. It strengthens community bonds, purifies the heart, and earns Allah’s pleasure. It reminds us of the importance of sacrifice and submission to Allah’s will.
13. Aqiqah Islamic rulings and fatwas
Most Islamic scholars consider Aqiqah a Sunnah Muakkadah (highly recommended practice). There are some differences in opinion regarding the number of animals to sacrifice for a boy versus a girl. Consulting with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar or referring to reliable fatwa sources can provide clarity on specific rulings based on one’s circumstances and school of thought.
14. Qurbani sacrifice for deceased family member
While the general consensus is that Qurbani is primarily for the living, some scholars permit performing Qurbani on behalf of a deceased family member if the deceased had made a will requesting it or if the family wishes to honor their memory and seek blessings for them.
15. Aqiqah naming ceremony Islamic procedure
The naming ceremony is often combined with the Aqiqah celebration. The baby is given a good and meaningful Islamic name, preferably by a respected member of the community or family. Prayers are offered for the child’s well-being, and the name is announced publicly. The naming should be done with good intentions and in accordance with Islamic principles.
We hope that this article has helped you understand what Qurbani and Aqiqah are, why they are performed, how they are performed, and what are their differences and similarities. We also hope that this article has inspired you to perform Qurbani and Aqiqah with sincerity and generosity, and to share the joy with your brothers and sisters in Islam. May Allah (SWT) accept your Qurbani and Aqiqah, and bless you with His mercy and grace. Ameen.
