What is the significance of Qurbani?

What is Qurbani?

For Muslims around the world, the observance of Qurbani (meaning “sacrifice” in Arabic) holds profound significance, symbolizing obedience, gratitude, and compassion. This sacred act commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Isma’il, as an act of obedience to God’s command. However, God, in his mercy, spared the life of Isma’il, instructing Ibrahim to instead sacrifice a ram. Ibrahim’s willingness to obey Allah is tested to its ultimate limit, and his faith is rewarded handsomely.

In keeping with this tradition, Muslims today sacrifice livestock as a symbol of their devotion to God. This act, known as Qurbani, takes place around the high holy day of Eid al-Adha (“Feast of Sacrifice”), which takes place over the 10th, 11th, and 12th days of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, following the completion of Hajj rituals. As part of Qurbani, the slaughter of animals including cattle, sheep, goats, and camels is typically followed by the distribution of their meat to less fortunate members of the community. By making this sacrifice, Muslims show their dedication to God, and their compassion for those in need.

Do I Owe Qurbani?

All adult Muslims who possess wealth and assets (minus liabilities) exceeding the nisab, and who have possessed this wealth for at least one year, are obliged to give Qurbani. The nisab is determined by the current value of 87.48 grams of gold; as of April 2024, this is equivalent to roughly $5,300. (This value also determines whether a person must pay Zakat; if you are obliged to pay any money for Zakat according to Embrace Relief’s Zakat calculator, you must give Qurbani.)

If a person is obliged to give Qurbani, there are a number of rules and regulations governing how they may do so. For those Muslims who perform Qurbani themselves, the following criteria are required in order to make a valid, acceptable sacrifice:

• Which animals may be sacrificed for Qurbani? Permissible animals for sacrifice include sheep, goats, cattle, and camels. Animals must meet specific age criteria (for example, sheep and goats must be at least one year old) and must be in good health to be considered valid for Qurbani.
• When do I give Qurbani? Qurbani should be performed during the designated days of Eid al-Adha, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah on the Islamic calendar, following the Eid prayer. In 2024, the dates of Eid al-Adha correspond to June 16, June 17, and June 18.
• How do I sacrifice an animal for Qurbani? The sacrifice must be performed by adhering to Islamic rituals, including invoking the name of Allah and following the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim. The slaughter must be performed humanely, with minimal pain and suffering.
• Who receives the Qurbani meat? The meat from the Qurbani animal is divided into three equal parts: one for personal consumption, one for relatives and friends, and one for the needy.

However, it is not always possible for Muslims around the world to take part in this sacrifice firsthand. Many opt to fulfill their Qurbani obligation via a monetary donation to a reputable charitable organization, which carries out the sacrifice and ensures that the meat will reach those who most need it.

To make the maximum impact with your Qurbani donation, It is important to select accredited charities with a history of transparency and a demonstrated track record of delivering aid to the people who need assistance the most.

Qurbani represents a sacred act of obedience, gratitude, and compassion in Islam. By adhering to the rules and regulations of Qurbani and donating through reputable nonprofit charities, Muslims can fulfill their religious obligation while contributing to the welfare of disadvantaged communities worldwide. This noble tradition exemplifies the spirit of sacrifice and solidarity, fostering empathy and compassion within the global Muslim community.

Give your Qurbani with Embrace Relief!

As Qurbani 2024 approaches, Embrace Relief stands ready to make another enormous impact in the lives of people living with hunger. We invite you to give your Qurbani by donating to Embrace Relief’s International Hunger Relief: Qurbani 2024 campaign! Each gift will provide enough meat for eight families, ensuring that your impact will be felt by entire communities.

In 2023, the generosity of donors like you allowed Embrace Relief to distribute Qurbani meat packages to more than 122,000 people in 19 countries across five continents. For the many families worldwide who struggle to afford nutritious food, this program represents a beacon of hope and support. We’re aiming to expand our impact in 2024 – but we can’t do it without your help.

Give your Qurbani today with Embrace Relief by using the donation box below. Let us mark Eid al-Adha 2024 by sharing our blessings with a family in need, spreading joy and goodwill to all.