Origin and Language of the Word:
“Qurbani” (Arabic: قربانى) is an Arabic word derived from “qurb” (nearness), meaning “a means of approaching” or “proximity.” It is related to the Hebrew term “qorban” (offering) and the Syriac “qurbana” (sacrifice). In Islam, Qurbani refers to the ritual of animal sacrifice performed during Eid-ul-Adha (Bakrid), symbolizing devotion and seeking Allah’s pleasure.
Definition:
In Islamic law (Sharia), Qurbani, also known as “Udhiyyah” (أضحية), refers to the sacrifice of a specific animal (such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel) performed between the 10th and 13th days of Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar. This ritual commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in obedience to Allah’s command, which was replaced by a ram. The meat from the sacrifice is divided into three parts: for the poor, relatives/friends, and the family.
Spiritual Significance:
Qurbani is not merely an animal sacrifice; it symbolizes submission, obedience to Allah, and service to humanity. Its purpose is to draw closer to Allah, renounce material desires, and promote social solidarity through charity.
What Did the Prophets Say About Qurbani?
Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and the Origin of Qurbani:
The practice of Qurbani originated with Prophet Ibrahim. According to the Quran (Surah As-Saffat, 37:99-113), Allah commanded Ibrahim in a dream to sacrifice his son Ismail. Both father and son submitted to the command, but at the last moment, Allah accepted their devotion and replaced Ismail with a ram. This event forms the basis of Qurbani during Eid-ul-Adha, symbolizing devotion and obedience.
Habil and Qabil (Abel and Cain):
The Quran (Surah Al-Maida, 5:27-31) narrates the story of Habil and Qabil, the first instance of sacrifice. Habil’s offering of a sheep was accepted by Allah due to his pure intention, while Qabil’s offering of crops was rejected because of his impure intention. This highlights the importance of sincerity in sacrifice.
Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him):
Prophet Muhammad regarded Qurbani as an important symbol (sha’ir) of Islam, considering it Sunnah Mu’akkadah (highly recommended) or, according to some scholars, Wajib (obligatory). Relevant Hadiths include:
Sahih Bukhari and Muslim: The Prophet performed Qurbani with two rams, saying “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” and placing his foot on their necks.
Tirmidhi: “The blood of Qurbani reaches Allah before it touches the ground, so perform it with joy.”
The Prophet distributed Qurbani meat among his companions and permitted smaller animals (e.g., a six-month-old sheep), emphasizing devotion and community service.
Sacrifices of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) made numerous sacrifices for Allah’s cause:
Personal Sacrifice: He lived a simple life, often going hungry and giving his wealth to others.
Propagation of Islam: Despite persecution by the Quraysh in Mecca, he spread Islam’s message.
Sacrifices in Medina: He performed Qurbani annually for 10 years in Medina and taught its significance to his companions.
Social Unity: He promoted distributing Qurbani meat to the poor and community, fostering social equality.
He described Qurbani as an act of worship and a means to attain Taqwa (God-consciousness).
Perspectives of Religious Scholars
Hanafi School:
Imam Abu Hanifa and some scholars (e.g., Ibn Taymiyyah) consider Qurbani Wajib (obligatory) for financially capable Muslims.
Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali Schools:
Some scholars view it as Sunnah Mu’akkadah (highly recommended), though neglecting it is discouraged. Imam Malik also emphasized its importance.
Modern Scholars:
Ibn Uthaymeen: In his book Ahkamul Udhiyyah wazz-Zakat, he described Qurbani as a symbol of Muslim unity and devotion.
Abdus Salam: He emphasized Qurbani as a spiritual and social duty, aligning it with Quranic and scientific harmony.
Qurbani in the Quran and Religious Texts
Qurbani in the Quran:
Surah As-Saffat (37:99-113): Narrates the story of Ibrahim and Ismail, laying the foundation for Qurbani as a symbol of submission and obedience.
Surah Al-Hajj (22:34): “For every nation, We have appointed a rite of sacrifice so they may mention Allah’s name over the livestock He has provided.”
Surah Al-Kawthar (108:2): “Pray to your Lord and sacrifice.” This verse underscores Qurbani’s importance.
Surah Al-Maida (5:27): The story of Habil and Qabil emphasizes the role of pure intention in the acceptance of sacrifices.
Qurbani in Hadith:
Sahih Bukhari and Muslim: The Prophet performed Qurbani and declared it a tradition of Muslims.
Tirmidhi: Advised performing Qurbani with joy.
Mishkat al-Masabih: The Prophet’s companions performed Qurbani, reinforcing its status as Sunnah.
Other Religious Texts:
In Judaism, “qorban” (offering) in the Torah is similar to Qurbani.
In Christianity, “qurbana” (Eucharist) relates to the concept of sacrifice.
Broader Meaning and Guidance for Qurbani
Spiritual and Social Significance:
Qurbani is more than animal sacrifice; it represents self-sacrifice, charity, and devotion to Allah. It reminds Muslims to dedicate their wealth, time, and efforts to serving humanity.
Guidance:
Pure Intention: Qurbani must be performed solely for Allah’s pleasure.
Halal and Quality: The sacrificial animal must be halal, healthy, and meet Sharia standards.
Meat Distribution: The meat should be divided equally among the poor, relatives, and family.
Community Unity: Qurbani fosters social solidarity and the spirit of giving.
Modern Context:
In contemporary times, some view Qurbani through environmental or animal welfare lenses. However, Islamic scholars emphasize that it is a religious obligation performed according to Sharia guidelines.
Conclusion
Qurbani is a significant Islamic ritual commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and submission to Allah. The Quran and Hadith describe it as a means of attaining Taqwa and fostering social unity. Prophet Muhammad established it as a Sunnah, encouraging its performance with joy. Religious scholars consider it either Wajib or Sunnah Mu’akkadah, bringing Muslims closer to Allah and promoting charity within society.
