Is Qurbani Compulsory for all Muslims?

The Prophet (SAW) emphasised the importance of Qurbani in various narrations of hadith. According to one report, he mentioned Qurbani as the best of deeds that could be performed in the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah.

“The son of Adam does not do any deed on the Day of Sacrifice that is dearer to Allah than the sacrificing of animals. It will come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns and cloven hoofs and hair. Its blood is accepted by Allah before it reaches the ground. So be content when you do it.” [Ibn Maajah]

 

The Day of Sacrifice is considered to be the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, which is the first day of Eid al-Adha. In another hadith, the Prophet (SAW) called it the best of all blessed days of Dhul Hijjah.

“The greatest of days before Allah is the Day of Sacrifice.” [Sahih Abi Dawud]

 

In the light of the above narrations, Qurbani is the best deed performed on the best of days. This highlights the virtue of Qurbani and the importance of performing sacrifice during Eid al-Adha.

Is Qurbani Compulsory?

Qurbani is compulsory for all able Muslims according to Hanafi scholars. It is a Sunnah Mu’akadda in view of the other scholars. In any case, Muslims are strongly advised to participate in the practice of Qurbani; otherwise, they risk missing out on great reward. The texts of the Quran and hadith command believers to offer Qurbani for the sake of Allah (SWT).

“So, offer Salah (prayer) to your Lord, and sacrifice.” [Al-Kawthar 108:2]

 

“For every Ummah (religious community) We prescribed the act of sacrifice, so that they recite Allah’s name over the provision He gave them from the cattle. So, your God is One God. Therefore, to Him alone you must submit. And give good news to those who turn to Him with humbleness.” [Al-Hajj 22:34].

 

‘Say, “My prayer, my offering, my life and my death are for Allah, the Lord of all the worlds.’ [Al-An’am 6:162]

 

The above verses describe the significance of Qurbani and its status in Islam. Allah (SWT) reminds Muslims to be grateful to Him for their blessings by showing devotion to the faith and compassion to those in need. In a hadith, the Prophet (SAW) is reported to have condemned those who do not offer sacrifice despite possessing sufficient financial means.

“One who has ample wealth to offer sacrifice but does not do so, let him not approach our place or prayer.” [Ahmad, Ibn Majah]

 

Who is Qurbani Compulsory For?

It is important to explore the common question of who has to give Qurbani. As mentioned above, some schools of thought consider Qurbani to be a highly recommended Sunnah. Hanafi Fiqh considers Qurbani to be compulsory and details the specifications of those who are eligible for Qurbani. For Qurbani eligibility, a person should be:

• A sane and adult Muslim;
• in possession of wealth in excess of their needs;
• someone who is not travelling.

An easy description of Qurbani eligibility is the threshold of nisab. Those who qualify for paying Zakat because of possessing greater wealth than nisab are obliged to perform Qurbani.

When Does Qurbani Become Compulsory?

In light of the set rules, Qurbani only becomes compulsory for a Muslim after attaining adulthood and financial independence. Those who have not reached the required age do not have to give Qurbani.

Is Qurbani Compulsory in Hajj?

The custom of Qurbani takes place at the time of Hajj pilgrimage. Qurbani serves as a great reminder of the story of the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), which formed the basis of significant Hajj rituals.

Hajj pilgrims perform the sacrifice before coming out of Ihram during the sacred days of Dhul Hijjah while the rest of the Muslims offer Qurbani during the days of Eid al-Adha. On the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims do Qurbani and get their hair cut. Qurbani is obligatory for those performing Hajj al-Tamattu and Hajj al-Qiran. For those performing Hajj al-Ifrad, Qurbani is recommended.

“And mention much the name of God during the known days of Hajj-Pilgrimage over what He has provided them of grazing beasts to sacrifice. So eat of them and feed the afflicted ones, the indigent poor.” [Al-Hajj 22:28]

 

Qurbani with Orphans in Need:

You can donate your Qurbani online to Orphans in Need, who will deliver it to vulnerable orphans and widowed families in a country of your choice. Our team will ensure your Qurbani is performed in accordance with prescribed rules. Orphans in Need has made Great Value Qurbani available for your convenience, with prices starting from as little as £25. Fulfil your religious obligation by choosing our low-priced package or provide an additional Qurbani on behalf of a loved one.

Your Qurbani donations will help Orphans in Need support distressed individuals in areas suffering from conflict, disaster, or food poverty. Donate today and bring joy to someone in need this Eid al-Adha.