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What is Qurbani

Qurbani Rules and FAQs

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Qurbani is an important time in the Islamic calendar, which takes place in the 12th and final month, known as Dhul Hijjah. The sacred ritual of Qurbani accompanies the celebration of Eid al-Adha. Every able Muslim is expected to participate in Qurbani. The days of Qurbani bring hope to families living in poverty. It is a time when the needy and the poor can receive a share of the sacrificed animal.

Qurbani rules provide necessary instructions about offering sacrifice according to the injunctions of the faith. The guidance found in the Quran and the Sunnah dictates the rules of Qurbani, some of which have been discussed below. 

Understanding Qurbani: A Brief Overview

Qurbani is an offering given in recognition of the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim (A.S). It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S) willingness to give up his son for the sake of Allah (SWT). The Qurbani meaning dictates sacrificing an animal in the path of Allah (SWT) and distributing its shares to family members, friends and the needy. For those performing the pilgrimage, Qurbani marks the completion of Hajj. Whereas the rest of the Muslims celebrate Eid-al-Adha after the sacrifice.

How is Qurbani Offered?

Those who are eligible to give Qurbani must either sacrifice an animal or make a donation equivalent to the value of a sacrificial animal. Monetary Qurbani donations go towards purchasing animals for sacrifice so that everyone can enjoy a nutritious meal on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.

Qurbani Distribution Rules

Traditionally, the sacrificial meat is distributed in three ways: a portion is saved for the person who has made the Qurbani donation, a portion is given to the donor’s friends or relatives and the final portion is given to the less fortunate. However, due to the slaughter rules of some countries, many Muslims donate to charities like Orphans in Need who carry out Qurbani on their behalf and distribute all the shares amongst the needy. 

When Does Qurbani Start?

Qurbani falls on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah. The valid time of Qurbani starts after Eid-al-Adha prayer and lasts until the end of 12th Dhul Hijjah. Sacrifices that are made prior to Eid prayer are not considered Qurbani.

Is Qurbani Fard (Compulsory)?

Some schools of thought consider Qurbani to be compulsory. Others consider it a confirmed Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW).

It is reported that the Prophet (SAW) always offered Qurbani during his time in Madina. Furthermore, the Prophet (SAW) condemned those who do not offer sacrifice despite possessing financial means and ability. 

Who Has to Give Qurbani?

Qurbani is expected from every able Muslim who has reached the age of puberty, has independent financial means and is eligible to pay Zakat. There are different scholarly opinions on the obligation of Qurbani. You should speak to your local Imam for further guidance in this regard.

How Much is Qurbani Per Person?

Every eligible Muslim should provide one share of Qurbani. One small animal, such as a goat or sheep, is equivalent to one Qurbani share. Whereas a larger animal, such as a cow or a camel, is equivalent to seven shares and can be split between seven individuals.

What are the Qurbani Rules for Family?

The Qurbani rules for husbands and wives state that a husband does not need to give a share on behalf of his wife. However, it is permissible if he chooses to do so.

Who is Eligible to Receive Qurbani?

Many Muslims distribute their Qurbani meat to relatives, friends, and the needy.

At Orphans in Need, we distribute Qurbani donations to those in need to ensure they can enjoy Eid al-Adha alongside other Muslims.

How Much is Qurbani?

You can donate your Qurbani for £25 per share or for £35 to those in great need. You can also donate £10 for cooked Eid meals for orphans and widows on Eid al-Adha.

What Should I Do if I Have Missed Qurbani?

Missing Qurbani deprives a person of the great reward of offering sacrifice in that particular year. According to the scholars, a missed Qurbani does not have to be made up in the coming year. However, you can make an additional Qurbani for your own peace of mind. You should also make prior arrangements to offer Qurbani on time in the following year.

Should I Avoid Cutting My Nails and Hair if I Intend to Offer Qurbani?

As per Qurbani rules in Islam, it is prescribed for those offering sacrifice not to remove any nails or hair from the start of Dhul Hijjah until Qurbani has been made. In the words of the Prophet (SAW):

“When you see the new moon of Dhul Hijjah and one of you desires that he offer a sacrifice, then let him keep his hair and nails.”

What are the Qurbani Eid 2025 Dates?

Qurbani Eid 2025 is expected to take place from the sunset on 6th June, until 10th June. However, the dates can vary slightly due to moonsighting in the coming months.

Qurbani Animal Rules

Not all animals are suitable for Qurbani. There are rules about the health and age of an animal, which determine its eligibility for sacrifice.

The age of the animal should be a minimum of:

  • One year of age for sheep and goats (equivalent to one Qurbani share).
  • Two years of age for cows and buffalo (equivalent to seven Qurbani shares).
  • Five years of age for camels (equivalent to seven Qurbani shares).

Any animal chosen for sacrifice should be in good health, with no illness or disease. The following points needs to be considered when buying an animal for sacrifice:

  • Their horns should not be broken.
  • They must have at least half of their teeth.
  • They should not have lost a third or more of their ears or tail.
  • They should not be blind or have lost a third or more of their sight.
  • They must be able to walk without limping.
  • They must be well-fed and raised with care, not thin or lean.
  • Qurbani animals for sacrifice can be either male or female.

How to Slaughter a Qurbani Animal

For a slaughter to be valid, it is essential that the animal is slaughtered in accordance with the following rules:

  • Slaughter should be done with a sharp knife – dull knives may inflict unnecessary pain and suffering. 
  • Knives are not to be sharpened in front of the sacrificial animal. 
  • No animal is to be slaughtered in front of another animal. 
  • At the time of the sacrifice, the words “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar” are to be said. 
  • The animal is not to be skinned until the body is entirely cold.

How to Pay for Qurbani

If you live in the UK, Qurbani is only permitted in registered slaughterhouses. It is possible to arrange for your Qurbani to be offered at a registered abattoir. You can also donate the Qurbani value to a reputable charity who will do it on your behalf.

Perform your Qurbani with Orphans in Need. Our team will ensure that your Qurbani is sacrificed according to the prescribed rules and that the fresh meat is distributed to those living in Poverty. Donate to Orphans in Need and secure the great reward of Qurbani this year.