Qurbani is one of the most meaningful acts of worship in Islam, performed during Eid al-Adha. It is deeply connected to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who demonstrated complete obedience to Allah by being willing to sacrifice what he loved most.
The Qur’anic verses about Qurbani remind Muslims that this act is not just a ritual but a reflection of faith, sincerity, and submission to Allah. Through sacrifice, believers express gratitude for Allah’s blessings and show their willingness to follow His commands.
Date
In 2026, Qurbani will take place during Eid al-Adha, which is expected to fall around May 27–29, 2026, depending on the moon sighting.
Qurbani Rules, Timing, and Importance
What Qurbani Means in Islam
Qurbani, also known as Udhiya, is the act of sacrificing an animal for the sake of Allah. It honours the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was ready to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.
When is Qurbani performed?
The time for Qurbani begins after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah and continues until sunset on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
Best Day for Qurbani
The most rewarding time to perform Qurbani is the first day of Eid, immediately after the prayer.
Who Needs to Perform Qurbani?
Qurbani becomes necessary (wajib) for Muslims who
- Have reached adulthood
- Are mentally sound
- Own wealth above the nisab level
- Are not traveling (based on some scholarly opinions)
Basic Rules of Qurbani
Animal Age:
- Goat or sheep: minimum 1 year old
- Cow or buffalo: minimum 2 years old
- Camel: minimum 5 years old
Animal Health:
The animal must:
- Be in good health
- Be free from serious defects (such as blindness, severe illness, or injury)
Intention (Niyyah):
The sacrifice must be made with a sincere intention for Allah.
Method of Slaughter
- Follow Islamic guidelines for slaughter
- Recite “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”
- Treat the animal with care and avoid cruelty
Distribution of Qurbani Meat
The meat is generally divided into three portions:
- One for personal use
- One for relatives and friends
- One for those in need
Types of Animals for Qurbani
Permissible animals include the following:
- Goats and sheep
- Cows and buffaloes
- Camels
Performing Qurbani at Home
If you plan to do Qurbani yourself:
- Select a healthy animal
- Ensure proper Islamic slaughtering
- Maintain cleanliness
- Distribute meat responsibly
Performing Qurbani Online
Many charities now offer Qurbani services where you can:
- Pay online
- Choose a country or region
- Have the sacrifice carried out on your behalf
- Ensure meat reaches the needy
Qurbani for Deceased Loved Ones
You can offer Qurbani on behalf of someone who has passed away as an act of charity and remembrance.
Estimated Cost of Qurbani
Prices depend on:
- The type of animal
- Location
- Market conditions
General idea:
- Goat/sheep: moderate price range
- Cow shares: more affordable per person
- Camel: higher cost
Importance of Qurbani in Islam
Qurbani teaches:
- Obedience to Allah
- Willingness to sacrifice
- Compassion for others
- The value of sharing with those less fortunate
What to Avoid During Qurbani Days
- Do not cut hair or nails (for those intending Qurbani from 1st Dhul Hijjah until sacrifice)
- Avoid wasting meat
- Do not harm animals unnecessarily
- Stay away from showing off
A Story of Selflessness
A man once saved money all year to perform Qurbani. On Eid day, he learnt that his neighbour could not afford it. He chose to give his animal to that family instead. This act showed that the true essence of Qurbani lies in sincerity and helping others.
Teaching Children About Qurbani
Children should learn the following:
- The story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
- The meaning of sacrifice
- Kindness toward animals
- The importance of helping the poor
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can multiple people share one animal?
Yes, up to seven people can share a cow or camel.
Q: Is Qurbani required for everyone?
No, only for those who meet the financial criteria.
Q: Can charity replace Qurbani?
No, the act of sacrifice itself is essential, though it can be done through a trusted organisation. Surah Al-Kawthar (108:2)
Qurbani ayat from the Quran.
Surah Al-Kawthar (108:2)
Arabic:
فَصَلِّ لِرَبِّكَ وَانْحَرْ
English Translation:
“So pray to your Lord and offer sacrifice.”
Urdu Translation:
“پس اپنے رب کے لیے نماز پڑھو اور قربانی کرو۔”
Arabic:
فَصَلِّ لِرَبِّكَ وَانْحَرْ
English Translation:
“So pray to your Lord and offer sacrifice.”
Urdu Translation:
“پس اپنے رب کے لیے نماز پڑھو اور قربانی کرو۔”
2. Surah Al-Hajj (22:34)
Arabic:
وَلِكُلِّ أُمَّةٍ جَعَلْنَا مَنسَكًا لِّيَذْكُرُوا اسْمَ اللَّهِ عَلَىٰ مَا رَزَقَهُم مِّن بَهِيمَةِ الْأَنْعَامِ
English Translation:
“And for every nation We have appointed rites of sacrifice that they may mention the name of Allah over the livestock He has provided for them.”
Urdu Translation:
“اور ہم نے ہر امت کے لیے قربانی کے طریقے مقرر کیے تاکہ وہ ان جانوروں پر اللہ کا نام لیں جو اس نے انہیں عطا کیے ہیں۔”
3. Surah Al-Hajj (22:36)
Arabic:
وَالْبُدْنَ جَعَلْنَاهَا لَكُم مِّن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ لَكُمْ فِيهَا خَيْرٌ
English Translation:
“And the sacrificial camels we have made for you are among the symbols of Allah; for you, in them is good.”
Urdu Translation:
“اور قربانی کے اونٹوں کو ہم نے تمہارے لیے اللہ کی نشانیوں میں سے بنایا ہے، ان میں تمہارے لیے بھلائی ہے۔”
4. Surah Al-Hajj (22:37)
Arabic:
لَن يَنَالَ اللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَلَٰكِن يَنَالُهُ التَّقْوَىٰ مِنكُمْ
English Translation:
“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.”
Urdu Translation:
“نہ ان کا گوشت اللہ تک پہنچتا ہے اور نہ ان کا خون، بلکہ اس تک تمہارا تقویٰ پہنچتا ہے۔”
5. Surah As-Saffat (37:102)
Arabic:
يَا بُنَيَّ إِنِّي أَرَىٰ فِي الْمَنَامِ أَنِّي أَذْبَحُكَ
English Translation:
“O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you…”
Urdu Translation:
“اے میرے بیٹے! میں نے خواب میں دیکھا ہے کہ میں تمہیں ذبح کر رہا ہوں…”
6. Surah As-Saffat (37:107)
Arabic:
وَفَدَيْنَاهُ بِذِبْحٍ عَظِيمٍ
English Translation:
“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.”
Urdu Translation:
“اور ہم نے ایک عظیم قربانی کے ذریعے اس کا فدیہ دے دیا۔”
Conclusion: The True Spirit of Qurbani
Qurbani is more than a ritual—it reflects faith, sacrifice, and generosity. It reminds Muslims to obey Allah, support those in need, and act with sincerity. The real value of Qurbani lies not just in the act but also in the intention behind it.
Please read the related post: 07 Hajj Prayer+ Hajj Safety Tips for First-Time Pilgrims (Detailed Guide)
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