The Significance and Rulings of Udhiya in Islam

Udhiya, also known as Qurbani, is a significant act of worship in Islam performed during the days of Eid al-Adha. It commemorates the great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who demonstrated unwavering obedience to Allah (SWT) by willingly preparing to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS). In remembrance of this devotion, Muslims around the world offer an animal sacrifice, distributing its meat to the needy, family, and friends.

The Virtues of Udhiya

Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:

"So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone]." (Quran 108:2)

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) also emphasized the importance of Udhiya, stating:

"There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of Udhiya than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns, hair, and hooves (to be weighed). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood reaches the ground. So sacrifice with an open and happy heart." (Tirmidhi)

Rulings of Udhiya

1. Who Must Perform Udhiya?

Udhiya is Sunnah Mu’akkadah (a highly recommended act) for those who can afford it. Some scholars consider it obligatory (Wajib) for those who meet the following conditions:

Being a Muslim

Being of sound mind

Reaching the age of puberty

Possessing the financial means (i.e., owning wealth beyond basic needs, equivalent to the Nisab of Zakat)

2. Time of Udhiya

The sacrifice must be performed:

After the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah

During the three days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah)

Sacrificing before the Eid prayer is invalid and counts only as regular charity.

3. Eligible Animals for Udhiya

The animals must meet specific criteria:

Sheep/Goat: At least 1 year old

Cows/Buffaloes: At least 2 years old

Camels: At least 5 years old

The animal must be healthy, free from defects, and not:

Blind, severely sick, or lame

Missing most of its teeth, ears, or tail

4. Distribution of Meat

It is Sunnah to divide the meat into three parts:

1/3 for the family

1/3 for relatives and friends

1/3 for the poor and needy

However, one may keep all the meat or give more to the needy if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Selling the meat or skin – It should be given as charity or used personally.

Sacrificing on behalf of others without their permission – One can only sacrifice for someone else if they have been authorized.

Delaying the sacrifice unnecessarily – It should be done within the prescribed days.

Conclusion

Udhiya is a profound act of worship that symbolizes submission to Allah (SWT) and compassion for others. By fulfilling this Sunnah, Muslims revive the spirit of sacrifice, strengthen community bonds, and earn immense rewards.

May Allah (SWT) accept the sacrifices of the Ummah and grant us the sincerity to perform this act solely for His pleasure. Ameen