Qurbani is the sacrifice of a livestock animal and is carried out during Eid ul-Adha, the celebration of the prophet Ibrahim’s (S.A) willingness to sacrifice his beloved son Hazrat Ishmael (S.A) upon Allah’s (SWT) request.
It is important for Muslims to adhere to the Qurbani meat distribution rules in order to carry out the sacrifice and subsequent division of the meat in accordance with the wishes of Allah (SWT).
Which Animals are Eligible for Qurbani Donations?
The meat for Qurbani comes from an animal that must be sacrificed The meat from each animal is apportioned into shares and the amount of shares per animal varies, as outlined below.
The sacrificed animal can either be:
A goat (at least one-year-old)
A bull, cow or buffalo (two years old minimum)
A sheep (at least one-year-old)
A camel (five years old minimum)
If the goat or sheep, this counts as a single share, meaning that an individual must purchase the animal solely in its entirety to perform their Qurbani. On the other hand, a camel, cow, bull, or buffalo has seven shares. This means that up to seven people can contribute towards the cost of the animal and receive their share in accordance with Qurbani meat distribution rules.
The animal can be male or female but should have no injuries, disabilities, or broken bones (including its horns). It should be sacrificed either immediately after Eid-ul-Adha prayers or as close to this time as possible.
Who is Eligible to Receive Qurbani Meat?
The meat of a sacrificed animal should be divided into three parts:
- One part for the person who supplied the animal
- One part to be shared out among their family, friends or neighbours
- One part to be given to those in need
Furthermore, there are no rules stating that those who receive meat from a Qurbani sacrifice must follow the Muslim faith.
“Allah (SWT) does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah (SWT) loves those who deal with equity.”
- al-Mumtahinah 60:8
“The animal offerings are among the rites decreed by GOD for your own good. You shall mention God’s name on them while they are standing in line. Once they are offered for sacrifice, you shall eat therefrom and feed the poor and the needy. This is why we subdued them for you, that you may show your appreciation.”
- Qu'ran 22:36
The skin of a Qurbani animal can be kept and used, but if it is sold then the money should be donated to the poor.
Why is Qurbani Important?
Qurbani is a time for sacrifice and remembrance and it can teach us so many things about our world, our faith, and our relationship with Allah (SWT).
By leading us in celebration of the Prophet Ibrahim (S.A)'s utter devotion to Allah (SWT) and his willingness to give up his only son, Qurbani takes a symbolic remembrance of an important example of submission to Allah (SWT) from the Qu'ran and turns it into a real moment of charity. An ultimate expression of the meaning of the word 'Islam'.
By making every Muslim responsible for providing a third of the meat from their Qurbani sacrifice for the enjoyment of others at this auspicious time, Allah (SWT) teaches us several lessons at once. First, that the Ummah is a place of equality, and that all must give for everyone. Second, that celebration in Islam is for everyone, and that none should be left out. Third, that all things come from Allah (SWT) and thus they must be given to those He loves with great urgency.
How Does My Qurbani Donation Benefit Those in Need?
Many Muslims in countries like the UK cannot give a third of their Qurbani meat to the poor in the streets. That is why Al Mustafa Welfare Trust collects financial contributions, enabling Muslims to donate their Qurbani to benefit those most in need.
