Guide
Qurbani in Islam: Meaning and Significance
What Qurbani means, when it is performed, and what it teaches.
Meaning
Qurbani, also called Udhiyah, is the sacrifice of an animal for the sake of Allah during Eid ul Adha. It is an act of worship, gratitude and care for others. It remembers the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Allah.
The story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
Qurbani remembers the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah. Allah ransomed his son with a great sacrifice (Quran 37:107). The account is a lesson in obedience and submission to Allah.
Taqwa, not the meat
The Quran says: “It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him” (Quran 22:37). Qurbani is an act of devotion and sincere intention.
The days of Qurbani
Qurbani is performed on the 10th, 11th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, after the Eid prayer. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the matching Gregorian date shifts from year to year and is confirmed closer to the date, based on moon sighting.
The animal
The animal should be healthy and free from defects. A goat should be at least one year old, and a buffalo at least two years old. A goat is one share, for one person; a buffalo has seven shares. Qurbani Centre performs Qurbani on goat and buffalo only.
What Qurbani represents
- Obedience and submission to Allah.
- Gratitude for His blessings.
- Care for people in need, who receive a share of the meat.
Sharing with others
The meat of Qurbani is shared with family, relatives and people in need, so that everyone can take part in the joy of Eid. Qurbani teaches gratitude, generosity and readiness to give up something valued for the sake of Allah.
Qurbani through Qurbani Centre
Qurbani Centre performs Qurbani on goats and buffalo on behalf of donors in India. The meat is distributed to people in need. Once your Qurbani is performed, a confirmation is sent to you on WhatsApp.
See also: How booking works, Dates of Qurbani, Where the Quran mentions Qurbani and the Eid ul Adha festival.
For a ruling on your own circumstances, please consult a qualified local scholar.
Frequently asked questions
What is Qurbani?
Qurbani, also called Udhiyah, is the sacrifice of an animal for the sake of Allah during Eid ul Adha. It is an act of worship, gratitude and care for others.
When is Qurbani performed?
On the 10th, 11th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, after the Eid prayer.
How many shares are in a goat and in a buffalo?
One goat is one share, for one person. A buffalo has seven shares, so up to seven people can share one buffalo.
Which animals does Qurbani Centre use?
Goat and buffalo only. A goat should be at least one year old and a buffalo at least two years old.
