Umm-Al-Qura calendar

Eid ul-Adha is the second of the two celebrations in the Islamic calendar. Also known as Qurbani Eid, Eid ul-Adha is accompanied by the sacred ritual of sacrifice. Qurbani teaches believers obedience, devotion, and gratitude. It is a means of achieving closeness to Allah (SWT) by submitting to His Will.

Qurbani takes place after the completion of the Eid prayer on the day of Eid ul-Adha. The sacrifice involves the slaughter of a permissible animal for the sake of Allah (SWT). Traditionally, its meat is distributed in three equal parts - one for the person performing Qurbani, one for their loved ones, and the last one for those in need.

What is Qurbani in Islam?

The Qurbani festival celebrates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to divine commands. Muslims offer Qurbani to commemorate his great sacrifice as instructed by the Quran and Sunnah. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:

“And the camels and cattle We have appointed for you as among the symbols [i.e., rites] of Allah; for you therein is good. So, mention the name of Allah upon them when lined up [for sacrifice]; and when they are [lifeless] on their sides, then eat from them and feed the needy [who does not seek aid] and the beggar. Thus, have We subjected them to you that you may be grateful.” [22:36]

The believers slaughter a qualifying animal and share its meat with those in need. The sacrifice is offered between the 10th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah in accordance with the Qurbani rules.

Is Qurbani Farz (Obligatory)?

Qurbani is obligatory according to some scholars and a highly recommended Sunnah according to the others. Muslims are strongly advised to make the most of the month of Dhul Hijjah and engage in commendable acts of worship. Those who do not offer Qurbani miss out on great rewards in the most blessed days of Dhul Hijjah.

Qurbani is the best way of achieving closeness to Allah (SWT) in these sacred days. In addition to this, the practice of the Prophet (SAW) demonstrates the significance of Qurbani as he offered sacrifice every year during his time in Madina. The believers are also encouraged to follow in his footsteps and strive hard to achieve the pleasure of Allah (SWT).

At What Age is Qurbani Farz (Compulsory)?

Qurbani is only expected by adult Muslims who have sufficient means to perform the sacrifice. Those who do not have independent means to support themselves are not obliged to offer Qurbani.

Who is Eligible for Qurbani?

It is common to wonder about who has to give Qurbani. In order to be eligible to offer Qurbani, you must be: 

  • An adult Muslim 
  • Sane and of sound mind 
  • In possession of wealth that exceeds your needs and the needs of your family 

‘There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of Qurbani than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Judgement with its horn, hair, and hooves. Allah accepts sacrifice before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore, sacrifice with an open and happy heart.’

(Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)

Qurbani Rules

There are certain rules associated with Qurbani, which include the following:

  • The animal sacrifice must be done on the 10th, 11th, or 12th day of Dhul Hijjah.
  • The Qurbani must be healthy.
  • The chosen animal should have reached the required age.
  • Livestock animals eligible for Qurbani are goats, sheep, cows, bulls, buffalo, and camels.

When Does Qurbani 2025 Start in the UK?

Qurbani Eid begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, with celebrations lasting for three days. In 2025, Eid ul-Adha is expected to start on 6 or 7 June in the UK, subject to the sighting of the moon.

Prophetic Qurbani

The term Prophetic Qurbani refers to a Qurbani that’s given in addition the one offered on behalf of yourself and your family. According to sound reports, the Prophet (SAW) used to sacrifice two animals for Qurbani – one on his behalf and his family and the other on behalf of the Ummah. Many Muslims offer an additional Qurbani in imitation of the Prophet’s (SAW) example.

Do Qurbani with UKIM

How to Do Qurbani

Qurbani is performed at the prescribed time by proclaiming Allah’s (SWT) name and in accordance with all other Udhiyah rules. It is permissible to appoint someone else to slaughter the animal on your behalf. In the UK, most people donate their Qurbani to charitable organisations that perform the sacrifice on their behalf and distribute the meat to those in need.

Qurbani with UK Islamic Mission

You can do your Qurbani with UKIM, who will perform your Qurbani in line with Islamic teachings and use the meat to feed those living in poverty.

Our teams deliver fresh Qurbani shares to families going through hunger, allowing the vulnerable and needy to enjoy Eid ul-Adha with loved ones. Donate your Qurbani today and make a difference in the life of someone in need this Eid ul-Adha.

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