Eid al-Adha: An In-Depth Guide to Observing the Sacred Festival
Qurbani, or the ritual of animal sacrifice, holds profound significance in Islam. It is an act of devotion commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. This noble act, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, is performed during the Eid al-Adha festival. A pivotal aspect of this ritual is the recitation of the Qurbani Dua, a supplication that encapsulates the essence of submission and dedication to Allah.
The Qurbani Dua
The Qurbani Dua is a profound expression of a Muslim’s intention and devotion during the act of sacrifice. It is recited before the sacrifice, aligning one’s heart and mind with the spiritual significance of the ritual. The Dua is as follows:
Arabic:
إِنِّي وَجَّهْتُ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي فَطَرَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ حَنِيفًا وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ
إِنَّ صَلَاتِي وَنُسُكِي وَمَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِي لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ
لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَبِذَٰلِكَ أُمِرْتُ وَأَنَا أَوَّلُ الْمُسْلِمِينَ
اللَّهُمَّ مِنْكَ وَلَكَ هَذَا عَنِّي / هَذَا عَنْ …….
بِسْمِ اللهِ وَاللهُ أَكْبَرTransliteration:
“Inni wajjahtu wajhiya lillazi fatara assamawati wal arda hanifan wama ana minal mushrikeen.
Inna salati wa nusuki wa mahyaya wa mamati lillahi rabbil alameen.
La sharika lahu wa bizalika umirtu wa ana awwalu almuslimeen.
Allahumma minka wa laka haza anni / haza an……
Bismillahi Wallahu Akbar.”Translation:
“I have turned my face towards the One who created the heavens and the earth, following the straight path, and I am not among the polytheists.
Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my life, and my death are for Allah, the Lord of all the worlds.
No partner has He. This I have been commanded, and I am the first of the Muslims.
O Allah, this is from You and for You. This is on behalf of me / this is on behalf of……
In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.”
Performing Qurbani: Intentions and Procedures
The procedure for Qurbani involves specific intentions based on whether the sacrifice is being performed for oneself or on behalf of another:
- For oneself: Say “Haza Anni.”
- For someone else: Say “Haza An” followed by the name of the person for whom the sacrifice is being made, e.g., “Haza An Abdullah.”
🔰 Qurbani Ke Dua’ein:
❇️ Qurbani Ka Jaanwar Zibah Karte Waqt “BISMILLAH” Ya “BISMILLAHI WALLAHU AKBAR” Ya Iske Saath Mazeed Kalimaat Padhna Jayez Hai Jo Rasoolullah (SallallaahuAlaihiwasallam) Se Saabit Hai, Lekin Yaad Rahe Ke Kam azKam “BISMILLAH” Padhna Waajib Hai.Jabke Deegar Dua’ein Mustahab Hai
💠 Jaanwar Ki Qurbani Ke Waqt Inn Dua’on Me Se Koi Bhi Ek Dua Padhi Jaasakti Hai:
1️⃣ “Bismillah” Padhkar Zibah Kiya Jaa Sakta Hai. 📚 (Saheeh Muslim, Kitabul Azahi: 5064, Saheeh Bukhari: 5500)
2️⃣ “Bismillahi WallahuAkbar” Padhkar Zibah Kiya Jaasakta Hai. 📚 (Saheeh Bukhari, Kitabut Tawheed: 7399, Saheeh Muslim, Kitabul Azha: 5090)
3️⃣ “Bismillahi Wallahuakbar Allahumma Taqabbal Min……………(Khaali Jagah Par Jis Jis Ki Taraf Se Qurbani Ki Jaa Rahi Hai Unn Ka Naam Lesakte Hai Ya Phir Naam Lene Ki Bajaaye “Bismillah Wallahuakbar” Ke Baad “Allahumma Taqabbal Minni Wa Min Ahlee” Kehkar Zibah Kardein. Dekhiye(Saheeh Muslim, Kitabul Azahi: 5091, Sunan Abu Dawud, Kitabuz zahaya: 2792)
4️⃣. إِنِّي وَجَّهْتُ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي فَطَرَ السَّمَوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ حَنِيفًا وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ ، إِنَّ صَلَاتِي وَنُسُكِي وَمَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِي لِلهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، وَبِذٰلِكَ أُمِرْتُ وَأَنَا أَوَّلُ الْمُسْلِمِينَ، بِسْمِ اللّهِ وَاللّهُ أَكْبَر اللَّهُمَّ مِنْكَ وَلَكَ عَن ………….(Khaali Jageh Par Qurbani Karne Waala Apna Ya Apne Saath Ghar Waalon Ka Naam Zikr Karey).
📚 (Saheeh Ibn Khuzaima, Kitabul Manasik: 2899, Sunan Ibn Majah, Abwabul Azahi: 3121)
Spiritual and Educational Growth
Understanding and performing Qurbani with the proper intentions deepens one’s faith and commitment to Islamic principles. It is an opportunity to reflect on the values of sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to Allah.
To further enhance your understanding and practice of Islamic rituals and teachings, consider enrolling in courses offered by the Institute of Quran and Sunnah (IQS). These courses provide comprehensive knowledge and guidance on various aspects of Islamic life, ensuring that you are well-versed in both the theory and practice of your faith.
The Method of Performing Qurbani as per the Quran and Sunnah
Qurbani, or the ritual sacrifice of an animal, is a significant act of worship in Islam, commemorating the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in submission to Allah’s command. This act is performed during the days of Eid al-Adha. Understanding the method of performing Qurbani according to the Quran and Sunnah is crucial for every Muslim.
Sunnah and Hadith References
The Sunnah, the practices of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), provides detailed guidance on how to perform Qurbani. The key references are:
- Intention (Niyyah):
- The intention behind the sacrifice should be solely to seek Allah’s pleasure. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
> “Actions are but by intentions and every man shall have only that which he intended.”
> (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)
- Choosing the Animal:
- The animal chosen for Qurbani should be healthy, without any defects. The Prophet (SAW) said:
> “There are four that will not do for sacrifice: the one-eyed animal whose defect is obvious, the sick animal whose sickness is obvious, the lame animal whose limp is obvious, and the emaciated animal that no one would choose.”
> (Sahih Bukhari)
- Time of Sacrifice:
- The time for Qurbani begins after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah and ends at sunset on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah. The Prophet (SAW) said:
> “The first thing we do on this day (Eid al-Adha) is to pray, then return and offer our sacrifice. Whoever does this has followed our Sunnah.”
> (Sahih Bukhari)
- Method of Slaughter:
- The animal should be slaughtered in a humane manner, using a sharp knife to quickly cut the throat, windpipe, and blood vessels in the neck, causing the least amount of pain. The Prophet (SAW) said:
> “Allah has prescribed proficiency in all things. Thus, if you kill, kill in a good manner, and if you slaughter, slaughter in a good manner. Let one of you sharpen his knife and give ease to the animal he is slaughtering.”
> (Sahih Muslim)
- Dua and Takbir:
- Before slaughtering the animal, the person should recite:
> ” Inni wajjahtu wajhiya lillazi fatara assamawati wal arda hanifan wama ana minal mushrikeen. Inna salati wa nusuki wa mahyaya wa mamati lillahi rabbil alameen. La sharika lahu wa bizalika umirtu wa ana awwalu almuslimeen. Allahumma minka wa laka haza anni / haza an…… Bismillahi Wallahu Akbar.”
Distribution of Meat:
The meat from the Qurbani should be divided into three parts:
- One part for the family.
- One part for relatives and friends.
- One part for the poor and needy.
This distribution is based on the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who emphasized sharing the blessings of the sacrifice with others.
Manners of Sacrifice in Islam
Performing Qurbani, or the ritual sacrifice, is a significant act of worship during Eid al-Adha. Adhering to the proper manners of sacrifice ensures that this act is performed in accordance with Islamic teachings. Here are the key manners of sacrifice based on authentic sources from the Quran and Hadith:
- Sacrifice After Eid Prayer:
- It is not permissible to sacrifice before the Eid prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Whoever sacrifices before the Eid prayer, he has not offered the sacrifice.”
- Reference: Bukhari 5562
- First Action After Eid Prayer:
- The first thing to do after the Eid prayer is to perform the sacrifice.
- Reference: Bukhari 5545
- Preferred Day for Sacrifice:
- It is better to perform the sacrifice on the 10th of Zul-Hijjah.
- Reference: Abu Dawud 1765
- Using a Sharp Knife:
- A sharp knife should be used while performing the sacrifice, and the animal should be relieved of its pain as quickly as possible.
- Reference: Muslim 1955
- Avoid Sharpening Knife in Front of Animal:
- Do not sharpen the knife in front of the animal to prevent causing it distress.
- Reference: Muslim 1955
- Personal Involvement in Sacrifice:
- It is better for the person offering the sacrifice to slaughter the animal with his own hands.
- Reference: Bukhari 5564
- Proper Positioning of the Animal:
- The animal should be slaughtered lying down with its feet on its side.
- Reference: Bukhari 5558
- Sincere Intention and Invocation:
- The sacrifice should be made with a sincere intention in the name of Allah. The Prophet (SAW) used to say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” when slaughtering.
- Reference: Muslim 1965
- Method for Slaughtering Camels:
- Slaughter the camel while it is standing and tie its front left leg, which is called “nahar karna.”
- Reference: Bukhari 1713
- Distribution of Meat:
- Eat the sacrificial meat yourself and share it with friends and relatives.
- Reference: Al-Hajj 36
- Payment to Butcher:
- It is prohibited and unlawful to pay any part of the sacrificial animal to the butcher as compensation.
- Reference: Bukhari 1717
- Donation of Sacrificial Skin:
- It is unlawful to take the value of the sacrificial skin for personal use. Instead, give the skin in the way of Allah.
- Reference: Authentic Hakim 3514
By following these guidelines, Muslims can ensure that their Qurbani is performed correctly and in accordance with the teachings of Islam, reflecting the spirit of sacrifice and devotion.
Issues of Eidul Azha in the Light of Authentic Hadith
1. Performing the Eid Prayer Late is Not Correct:
- It is recommended to perform the Eid prayer at the earliest time after sunrise.
- Reference: Abu Dawud 1135
2. Performing Ghusl (Ritual Bath) on Eid Day is Recommended:
- Taking a ritual bath on Eid day is considered mustahab (optional but recommended).
- References: Moatta 1/177, Zaadul Maad 1/442
3. Wearing the Best Clothes on Eid Day is Recommended:
- It is mustahab to wear the finest clothes on Eid day.
- References: Sahih Bukhari 886, 948; Tabrani 7609; Majmua Az-Zawaid 2/198
4. Not Eating Before Eidul Azha Prayer is Recommended:
- It is recommended not to eat anything before going for the Eidul Azha prayer.
- References: Tirmizi 542, Bukhari 953
5. No Adhan or Iqamah for Eid Prayer:
- There is no adhan (call to prayer) or iqamah (call to stand for prayer) for the Eid prayer.
- References: Muslim 887, Abu Dawud 1148
6. No Nafl (Voluntary) Prayer Before or After Eid Prayer:
- There are no voluntary prayers to be performed before or after the Eid prayer.
- References: Bukhari 989, Abu Dawud 1159, Tirmizi 537, Ibn Maja 1291
7. Obligation for Women to Attend Eid Prayer:
- The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged women, including those who are menstruating, to attend the Eid prayer.
- Reference: Sahih Bukhari 974
8. Women Should Not Wear Perfume When Going Out for Eid Prayer:
- Women are advised not to wear perfume when going out to the Eidgah (place of Eid prayer).
- References: Tirmizi 2786, Muslim 997
9. Children Should Also Perform the Eid Prayer:
- Children are encouraged to participate in the Eid prayer.
- Reference: Bukhari 975
Reciting Takbeerat on Eid Day
10. Recite Takbeerat from 1st Zul-Hijjah to the Evening of 13th Zul-Hijjah:
- It is recommended to recite takbeerat starting from the 1st of Zul-Hijjah until the evening of the 13th of Zul-Hijjah.
- References: Bukhari 969, Majmua Fatawa 24/221
11. Words of Takbeerat:
- The phrases of the Takbeerat include:
- “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallahu, Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Walillahil Hamd”
- References: Ibn Abi Shaiba 1/488, Tabrani 9/355
- “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Kabeera”
- Reference: Behqi Fi Sunan Al-Kubra 3/316
12. Women Should Also Recite Takbeerat:
- Women are also encouraged to recite Takbeerat, but in a low voice that is not heard by non-mahram (unrelated men).
- Reference: Bukhari 970
Eid Greetings and Congratulations
13. How and When to Give Eid Greetings:
- Saying “Eid Mubarak” is permissible.
- The companions of the Prophet (SAW) would greet each other after the Eid prayer with the words:
- “Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum” (May Allah accept from us and from you).
- Note: This greeting should be given after the Eid prayer, not before.
- Reference: Fatehul Bari 2/446
(Every point is supported by evidence.)
Hadith: It is Sunnah to Pray Eid Salah in the Eidgah in Normal Conditions
1. Eid Salah Should Be Performed Outdoors:
- It is Sunnah to perform the Eid prayer in an open field outside the populated area.
- References: Bukhari 956, Abu Dawud 1158
2. Hazrat Ali’s Statement on the Sunnah of Eid Prayer:
- Hazrat Ali (RA) said, “If this practice were not Sunnah, I would have prayed in the mosque.”
- References: Ibn Abi Shaiba 2/185, Naylul Awtaar 2/591, Fatehul Bari 3/126
3. Eid Prayer in the Mosque During Rain:
- If it rains, the Eid prayer can be performed in the mosque.
- Reference: Behqi 3/310
(Every point is supported by evidence.)
Women Attending Eid Prayer in the Eidgah
1. The Prophet’s Emphasis on Women Attending Eid Prayer:
- The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasized that women should attend the Eid prayer.
- Reference: Sahih Bukhari 974
2. Separate Arrangements for Women:
- Women should attend the Eidgah where separate arrangements are made for them.
- Reference: Sahih Bukhari 974
Conclusion
Performing Qurbani according to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah ensures that this act of worship is accepted by Allah and carries its full spiritual reward. It is a reminder of our submission to Allah and our willingness to sacrifice for His sake.
For a deeper understanding and practical guidance on performing Qurbani and other Islamic rituals, consider enrolling in courses at the Institute of Quran and Sunnah (IQS). These courses are designed to enrich your knowledge and practice of Islam.
For course inquiries, visit IQS Course Inquiry. For Islamic counseling or Ruqya services, register at IQS Islamic Counseling and Ruqya.
Frequently asked Questions
Q1: What are the specific qualities and conditions that make an animal eligible for Qurbani?
For an animal to be eligible for Qurbani, it must meet specific criteria according to Islamic teachings. These include:
- Age:
- Sheep or goats should be at least one year old.
- Cows or buffaloes should be at least two years old.
- Camels should be at least five years old.
- Health and Condition:
- The animal should be healthy and free from any defects. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) specified that animals with the following conditions are not suitable for Qurbani:
- Blind or one-eyed animals.
- Animals that are sick or emaciated.
- Animals with a limp or broken bones.
- Animals with damaged horns or missing teeth.
- Species:
- The animals eligible for Qurbani include camels, cows, sheep, and goats.
- Ownership:
- The person performing the Qurbani must have full ownership of the animal, ensuring it is obtained lawfully and not stolen or taken unjustly.
- Timing:
- The sacrifice must be performed after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah until sunset on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.
By ensuring these criteria are met, the Qurbani is performed in a manner that aligns with the principles of Islam.
Q2: How can the principles of Qurbani be applied to everyday acts of charity and sacrifice in a Muslim’s life?
The principles of Qurbani emphasize sacrifice, generosity, and obedience to Allah. These principles can be applied to everyday life in several ways:
- Generosity:
- Just as Qurbani involves sharing meat with the needy, Muslims can regularly share their wealth, food, and resources with those less fortunate through acts of charity (Sadaqah) and obligatory almsgiving (Zakat).
- Sacrifice:
- Sacrificing time and resources for the benefit of others, such as volunteering, helping neighbors, or supporting community projects, embodies the spirit of Qurbani.
- Obedience to Allah:
- Qurbani teaches Muslims to prioritize obedience to Allah’s commands. This principle can be applied by adhering to Islamic teachings in daily life, such as performing prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and engaging in ethical business practices.
- Compassion:
- The humane treatment of the sacrificial animal reflects a broader principle of compassion towards all living beings. Muslims can apply this by treating others with kindness and respect and by advocating for the welfare of animals and the environment.
By incorporating these principles into everyday actions, Muslims can live a life that reflects the spirit of Qurbani.
Q3: What are some common mistakes to avoid when performing Qurbani, based on the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah?
Performing Qurbani correctly is crucial for its acceptance. Some common mistakes to avoid include:
- Incorrect Timing:
- Performing the sacrifice before the Eid prayer is invalid. Qurbani should only be done after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah until sunset on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.
- Improper Selection of Animal:
- Choosing animals that are too young, unhealthy, or have defects disqualifies the Qurbani. Ensure the animal meets the age and health requirements specified in the Sunnah.
- Lack of Intention (Niyyah):
- The intention behind the Qurbani should be for Allah’s pleasure alone. Failing to make the proper intention can affect the validity of the sacrifice.
- Inhumane Treatment:
- The animal must be treated with kindness and care. Using a blunt knife, causing unnecessary pain, or mishandling the animal goes against Islamic principles. The Prophet (SAW) emphasized the importance of proficiency and compassion in slaughter.
By being mindful of these aspects, Muslims can ensure that their Qurbani is performed in accordance with Islamic teachings.
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