What Is a Qurbani? Meaning, Rules, and Spiritual Lessons 

What is a Qurbani? This important Islamic practice has deep spiritual significance, embodying obedience, sacrifice, and munificence. Performed once annually on Eid Adha meaning, Qurbani reminds us of the unshakeable commitment of Prophet Ibrahim and serves as an inspiring reminder of submission to Allah’s will.

In this article, we will discover the meaning, rules, and spiritual lessons of Qurbani, enlightening you to its profound significance in Islamic tradition.

What Is a Qurbani in Islam?

To understand what is a Qurbani, one must first explore its rich roots in Islamic history, wherein it represents an inner expression of faith, sacrifice, and devotion. Qurbani or Udhiyah is the act of animal sacrifice that Muslims perform on the days of Eid al-Adha in accordance with Allah’s ordinance.

The meaning of Qurbani lies in the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, blessings of Allah upon him) and his son Ismail (Ishmael, blessings of Allah upon him), as seen in the Quran.

Allah Almighty in Surah As-Saffat (37:102-107) narrates how Prophet Ibrahim had a dream in which he was sacrificing his son. When he narrated the dream, Ismail replied with complete obedience:

“O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, among the steadfast.” (Surah As-Saffat 37:102)

Allah accepted Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and substituted a ram in place of his son:

“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” (Surah As-Saffat 37:107)

This event marks the origin of Qurbani, symbolizing complete submission to Allah’s will.

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The History of Qurbani and Prophet Ibrahim’s Sacrifice

In order to fully grasp what is a qurbani, one must trace its roots back in history and spirituality infused into the life of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him). Qurbani is one of the greatest examples of submission and trust found in monotheist history—an act that remains the pillar of Islamic worship.

The Divine Test of Faith

Qurbani history is rooted in the Quranic story of Prophet Ibrahim’s dream. The Surah As-Saffat (37:102–107) tells that Prophet Ibrahim was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (peace be upon him). Interpreting this as a divine command from Allah, he proceeded to his son to fulfill Allah’s command.

“He said, ‘O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think.’ He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.’” (Surah As-Saffat 37:102)

When both the father and son submitted to Allah’s will, Ibrahim placed Ismail on the altar to sacrifice him. But Allah replaced Ismail with a ram.

“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” (Surah As-Saffat 37:107)

That moment of divine substitution is the foundation of the Qurbani ritual, showing complete submission and trust in Allah’s wisdom.

A Legacy of Submission and Sincerity

To know what is a Qurbani is to consider the essence of the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim. His absolute compliance with Allah’s call, even when it meant offering what he cherished most, is the peak of tawakkul (complete trust in God). He did not act out of emotions or interest but seriousness in fulfilling the divine command, a lesson to everyone.

This moving story is imitated every year on Eid al-Adha as Muslims everywhere perform Qurbani in remembrance of this miraculous demonstration of devotion. It is an ancient reminder that the meaning of worship itself is submission, sacrifice, and purification of the soul.

Prophetic Tradition and Remembrance

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ carried this tradition on by offering sacrifices on every Eid al-Adha. In a hadith collected by Anas ibn Malik, it is said:

“The Prophet ﷺ sacrificed two white rams speckled with black. He slaughtered them with his own hand, said ‘Bismillah’ and ‘Allahu Akbar’, and placed his foot on their sides.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5558)

This is clear evidence again that Qurbani is not only a commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice but also a sunnah followed and practiced by the Messenger of Allah himself.

Qurbani Rules and Animal Conditions

After understanding what is a Qurbani and its historical significance, it is essential to observe the correct rules and conditions governing this sacred act of worship. The rules of Qurbani in Islam are derived from the Quran, Sunnah, and scholarly consensus, ensuring that the ritual is carried out with proper reverence, legality, and intention.

Who Must Perform Qurbani?

Once one understands what is a Qurbani and its religious history, it is necessary to observe the right regulations and conditions governing this pious act of worship. Islamic rules of Qurbani are derived from the Quran, Sunnah, and Ijma so that the practice occurs with befitting respect, legality, and intention.  

“Whoever has the means and does not offer a sacrifice, let him not approach our place of prayer.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3123 – Hasan)

In the Hanafi school of thought, Qurbani becomes obligatory in case one has wealth equal to or greater than Nisab (the least amount of wealth that makes one eligible for payment of zakat), which is roughly worth 87.48 grams of gold or its equivalent cash or assets.

Time for Offering Qurbani

The time to perform Qurbani is from after Eid al Adha prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah until sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah (three days in total). It is prohibited to perform the sacrifice before the Eid prayer.

The Prophet ﷺ stated: “Whoever offers the sacrifice before the Eid prayer, it is a mere slaughtering of meat, but whoever offers it after the prayer, then it is the Qurbani.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5545; Sahih Muslim 1961)

Conditions and Types of Animals

While analyzing what is a Qurbani in fact, it is important to know the conditions for sacrificial animals:

• The animals permissible are sheep, goats, cows, and camels.
• Goats and sheep must be one year old, and cows two years and camels five years.
• The animal must be in good health, free from any faults such as lameness, blindness, or grave illness.
• One goat or sheep is enough for one individual. Bigger animals such as cows and camels are enough for seven people.

Method of Slaughter

The Qurbani should be done by a Muslim reciting the name of Allah while slaughtering, using the phrase “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar”. The animal needs to be treated gently and the knife has to be clean to guarantee a quick and painless slaughter.

“Verily Allah has enjoined excellence in everything. So, when you kill, kill in a good way and when you slaughter, slaughter in a good way…”(Sahih Muslim 1955)

Distribution of Qurbani Meat

The Qurban meat needs to be divided into three equal parts:

• One-third for the person making the sacrifice and his or her household,
• One-third for relatives and friends,
• One-third for the poor and needy.

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Conclusion

Learning about what is a qurbani reveals so much more than a sacrificial ceremony; it works to reveal a deep spiritual movement based on submission, faith, and generosity. From the ancient sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim to practice today, Qurbani is a Muslim’s dedication and willingness to put Allah’s will first and foremost above all else.

By adhering to its rules and absorbing its teachings, Muslims all around the world renew themselves to Allah and reinforce bonds of community and charity.

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FAQs

Is intention important in Qurbani?

Absolutely, sincere intention and God-consciousness are essential for the sacrifice to be valid.

Can Qurbani meat be shared?

Yes, it is recommended to divide the meat into three parts: family, friends, and the needy.

When is Qurbani performed?

After the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah and up to sunset on the 12th.