During Eid ul-Adha, Muslims around the world fulfill the sacred obligation of Qurbani by offering a livestock sacrifice to honor the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). One of the most common questions each year is about the different types of animals used for Qurbani and how Qurbani share donations work, particularly when it comes to cows, goats, and sheep.
In 2025, with increasing participation through online platforms, it’s essential to understand the religious rulings, logistical process, and charitable impact of each option so you can make an informed and meaningful donation.
What Is a Qurbani Share?
According to Islamic teachings, larger animals like cows and camels can be divided into seven equal shares, with each share representing one person’s Qurbani. This makes Qurbani more affordable and accessible, especially for those who may not be able to purchase an entire animal individually. When you contribute to a cow share, your portion is treated as a full Qurbani on your behalf.
By contrast, goats and sheep cannot be shared—they are valid only for one individual’s Qurbani. These smaller animals are often selected by those who prefer to donate a full sacrifice on their own.
Differences Between Cow, Goat, and Sheep for Qurbani
- Goat: One Qurbani per goat. Must be at least one year old and healthy. Ideal for individual donors.
- Sheep: Like goats, one Qurbani per sheep. Can be six months old if it appears fully grown.
- Cow: Can serve up to seven people. Must be at least two years old. Perfect for shared donations among family or groups.
Each animal must be free of defects and meet age and health criteria outlined in Islamic jurisprudence. The sacrifice must be carried out during the days of Eid—between the 10th and 12th of Dhul-Hijjah—and only after the Eid prayer.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Qurbani in 2025
Your choice between goat, sheep, or cow may depend on budget, cultural preference, or desire for a personal versus shared donation. Many people opt for cow shares because they combine affordability with maximum impact. By contributing to a cow share, your Qurbani helps distribute a large quantity of meat to families in need, especially in food-insecure communities.
On the other hand, donating a goat or sheep ensures a complete sacrifice is performed in your name alone, which some donors find more spiritually fulfilling. In either case, your intention (niyyah), timing, and compliance with Islamic rules are what ultimately validate the Qurbani.
How Embrace Relief Makes Your Qurbani Count
When you donate through Embrace Relief, your Qurbani—whether full or shared—is managed with complete Shariah compliance, ethical standards, and transparency. The organization sources healthy animals, conducts slaughter during the proper timeframe, and ensures that meat is distributed to those most in need.
With operations in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, Embrace Relief connects your sacrifice directly to orphans, widows, refugees, and low-income families who depend on Qurbani distributions for their yearly nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Qurbani share donations helps you make a more informed decision that aligns with both religious requirements and humanitarian impact. Whether you choose a goat, sheep, or a cow share in 2025, your Qurbani is a powerful act of faith and generosity.
Donate your Qurbani through Embrace Relief and ensure your sacrifice nourishes lives this Eid ul-Adha.
