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What is Qurbani? Meaning, Story & Importance in Islam
Thu, 02nd Apr 2026
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What is Qurbani? Meaning, Story & Importance in Islam

Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal during Eid al-Adha as an act of worship and obedience to Allah. It is performed by eligible Muslims each year during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.

 

Qurbani takes place after the Eid prayer and continues over three days, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah. It is an important part of Eid al-Adha and is observed by Muslims around the world.

 

This act of sacrifice commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. Allah replaced his son with a ram, and this moment is remembered through Qurbani every year.

 

Qurbani is not only about the act of sacrifice, but also about intention, faith and submission to Allah. It reminds Muslims of the importance of trust, patience and gratitude.

 

The meat from Qurbani is shared between family, friends and those in need. For many vulnerable communities, this may be the only time they receive fresh meat throughout the year.

 

By performing Qurbani, Muslims fulfil a key religious duty while also supporting those facing hardship. It is a powerful act that combines worship, charity and compassion during the days of Eid al-Adha.

 

What is Qurbani in Islam?

Qurbani in Islam is the act of sacrificing an animal during Eid al-Adha as a form of worship and obedience to Allah. It is performed every year during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, after the Eid prayer.

 

This act follows the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who showed complete submission to Allah. Qurbani is a reminder of faith, sacrifice and devotion, it holds great spiritual significance for Muslims around the world.

 

Qurbani is performed by adult Muslims who are financially able to do so. This means those who meet a certain level of wealth, known as Nisab, are required or strongly encouraged to give Qurbani depending on scholarly opinion.

 

Each eligible individual should offer one Qurbani, which can be a small animal such as sheep or goat, or a share in a larger animal such as a cow. The sacrifice must be carried out during the specified days of Eid al-Adha and follow Islamic guidelines.

 

The meat is then distributed, with a portion given to those in need. This ensures that even the most vulnerable can take part in the blessings of Eid.

 

Qurbani in Islam is not only a religious obligation but also a way to support communities and promote compassion, generosity and social responsibility.

 

What Does Qurbani Mean?

The word Qurbani comes from the Arabic word “Qurban”, which means to come closer or to seek nearness. In Islam, Qurbani represents an act of devotion that brings a person closer to Allah through sacrifice and obedience.

 

This meaning goes beyond the physical act of sacrificing an animal. It reflects sincerity, faith and the willingness to submit to Allah’s commands. Qurbani is a reminder that true devotion is shown through actions, intention and trust in Allah.

 

Another term often used is “Udhiya”, which refers to the specific sacrifice carried out during Eid al-Adha. While the terms Qurbani and Udhiya are used interchangeably, they both describe the same act of sacrifice performed during the days of Dhul Hijjah.

 

At its core, Qurbani symbolises closeness to Allah, compassion for others and the importance of sharing blessings. It combines worship with charity, as the meat is distributed to those in need.

 

Through Qurbani, Muslims are reminded that true sacrifice is not just about giving, but about strengthening their relationship with Allah.

 

The Story Behind Qurbani (Prophet Ibrahim AS)

The story behind Qurbani comes from one of the most powerful and emotional tests of faith in Islamic history, experienced by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

 

One night, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) saw a dream in which he was sacrificing his beloved son, Ismail (AS). As a Prophet, he knew that this was not an ordinary dream, but a command from Allah. This was a test of complete obedience, trust and submission.

 

Despite the deep emotional difficulty, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) did not ignore the command. Instead, he approached his son and shared the vision with him. In a moment that reflects incredible faith, Ismail (AS) responded with patience and trust, telling his father to do as he had been commanded.

 

Together, they prepared to fulfil this act. A father ready to sacrifice his son, and a son willing to be sacrificed — both showing complete submission to the will of Allah. This moment highlights the strength of their belief and their unwavering devotion.

 

As Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah intervened. In His mercy, He replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram, sparing his life and rewarding both father and son for their sincerity and obedience.

 

This event is mentioned in the Qur’an in Surah As-Saffat (37:102–107), where Allah honours their faith and accepts their devotion.

 

Qurbani today is a reflection of this story. It is not just about sacrificing an animal, but about remembering the values of obedience, patience and trust in Allah.

 

The story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) reminds Muslims that true faith requires sacrifice. It teaches believers to put Allah above all else, even in the most difficult situations.

 

Each year during Eid al-Adha, Muslims carry out Qurbani to honour this moment. It serves as a reminder of faith, gratitude and the importance of submission to Allah’s will.

Why Do Muslims Give Qurbani?

Muslims give Qurbani as an act of worship and obedience to Allah. It is performed during Eid al-Adha to remember the devotion and sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to give up what was most precious to him for the sake of Allah.

 

Qurbani is not just about sacrificing an animal, but about showing sincerity, faith and submission. It is a way for Muslims to demonstrate their willingness to follow Allah’s commands and to strengthen their connection with Him.

 

Qurbani applies to Muslims who are financially able to do so. This means those who meet a certain level of wealth, known as Nisab, are required or strongly encouraged to give Qurbani depending on scholarly opinion.

 

Beyond its spiritual significance, Qurbani also has a strong social impact. The meat is shared with family, friends and those in need, ensuring that vulnerable communities can also take part in the joy of Eid.

 

For many families around the world, Qurbani provides essential nutrition that they may not have access to throughout the year. It helps support those facing poverty and hardship while spreading compassion and unity.

 

By giving Qurbani, Muslims fulfil an important religious duty while also helping others, making it an act that combines both worship and charity.

 

? Learn more about Qurbani rules

 

Is Qurbani Obligatory in Islam?

Scholars differ on whether Qurbani is obligatory or strongly recommended, depending on the school of thought.

 

According to the Hanafi school, Qurbani is considered obligatory (wajib) for Muslims who are financially able. This means that those who meet the required level of wealth are expected to perform Qurbani each year.

 

Other schools of thought, including Shafi’i, Maliki and Hanbali, consider Qurbani to be strongly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah). While not compulsory, it is highly encouraged and should not be neglected by those who are able to perform it.

 

Despite these differences, all scholars agree that Qurbani is an important act of worship with great spiritual value. It is a practice that reflects obedience, gratitude and devotion to Allah.

 

For those who are financially able, performing Qurbani is strongly encouraged as it follows the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and the teachings of Islam.

 

In all cases, it is best to follow guidance from trusted scholars or local religious authorities when deciding.

 

Who Needs to Give Qurbani?

Qurbani is required for every adult Muslim who meets certain financial conditions. It applies to individuals who are mentally sound, have reached maturity and possess enough wealth beyond their basic needs.

 

The key factor in determining who should give Qurbani is financial ability. Muslims who meet a minimum level of wealth, known as Nisab, are expected to perform Qurbani each year according to some scholars, while others strongly recommend it.

 

Qurbani is not limited to one per household. Each eligible individual within a family must give their own Qurbani if they meet the criteria. This means both men and women who are financially able are included.

 

Basic necessities such as food, clothing and housing are not counted when assessing eligibility. Only surplus wealth is considered.

 

Those who are unable to afford Qurbani are not required to perform it. However, for those who can, it is an important act of worship that should not be missed.

 

Understanding who should give Qurbani helps ensure that this obligation is fulfilled correctly and fairly.

 

What Are the Basic Rules of Qurbani?

Qurbani must be performed according to specific Islamic guidelines to ensure it is valid. These rules cover the timing of the sacrifice, the condition of the animal and how the meat is distributed.

 

Following these basic rules helps ensure your Qurbani is accepted and fulfils its purpose correctly.

 

  • Time of sacrifice - Qurbani must be performed after the Eid al-Adha prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. It can be carried out over three days, until sunset on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Any sacrifice done before the Eid prayer is not considered valid.
  • Animal requirements - Only certain animals are eligible, including sheep, goats, cows and camels. The animal must be healthy, free from defects and meet the minimum age requirement. It should be treated humanely and sacrificed according to Islamic principles.
  • Distribution - The meat from Qurbani should be shared among family, friends and those in need. A common approach is to divide it into three parts, ensuring that a portion reaches the poor and vulnerable. When doing Qurbani to Muslim Charity, we ensure the entire meat is distributed to poor and needy families.

 

? Learn more about Qurbani rules

When is Qurbani Performed?

Qurbani is performed during specific days in the Islamic calendar, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah, which is the final month of the Islamic year.

 

The sacrifice must take place after the Eid al-Adha prayer. Any Qurbani carried out before the prayer is not valid. Once the prayer is completed, Qurbani can be performed over the next two days, ending at sunset on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah.

 

These dates are based on the lunar calendar, so the exact days change each year. While the Islamic dates remain the same globally, the Gregorian calendar dates may vary slightly depending on moon sighting.

 

In some countries, people follow Saudi Arabia’s announcement, while others rely on local moon sighting. This can result in a difference of one day in when Qurbani begins.

 

? Learn more about When is Qurbani 2026

 

Which Animals Are Allowed for Qurbani?

Only specific animals are allowed for Qurbani in Islam, including small animals such as goats and sheep and large animals such as cows, buffaloes and camels.

 

Each animal must meet certain basic conditions. It should be healthy, free from visible defects and meet the minimum age requirement. For example, a goat or sheep should be at least one year old, while a cow should be at least two years old.

 

A single small animal (such as goat or sheep) counts as one Qurbani for one person. A large animal (such as a cow) can be shared by up to seven people, making it a more affordable option.

 

The animal must be treated with care and sacrificed according to Islamic guidelines during the days of Eid al-Adha.

 

Ensuring these conditions are met helps make your Qurbani valid and acceptable.

 

How is Qurbani Meat Distributed?

The meat from Qurbani is distributed in a way that reflects both generosity and care for others. A common approach is the one-third rule, where the meat is divided into three parts.

 

One third is kept for the individual or family that is sacrificing it, one third is shared with relatives/friends and one third is given to those in need. This ensures that the benefits of Qurbani are shared widely within the community.

 

A key purpose of Qurbani is its charity impact. It allows vulnerable families to receive fresh meat, which they may not be able to afford throughout the year. For many, this is a rare and valuable source of nutrition.

 

Qurbani plays an important role in helping poor communities, especially in regions affected by poverty, conflict or food insecurity. It brings relief during Eid and allows families to celebrate with dignity.

 

Through proper distribution, Qurbani becomes more than a sacrifice. It becomes a means of supporting others, spreading kindness and ensuring that no one is left behind during Eid.

 

Qurbani in the UK

Qurbani in the UK is subject to strict legal regulations to ensure animal welfare and food safety standards are maintained. Animals must be slaughtered in licensed abattoirs and the process must follow both UK law and Islamic guidelines. This means individuals cannot perform Qurbani privately at home.

 

Because of these restrictions, many Muslims in the UK choose to give their Qurbani through trusted charities. This provides a convenient and reliable way to fulfil the obligation without the challenges of arranging slaughter locally.

 

Donating through charities also ensures that the Qurbani is carried out correctly and within the required days of Eid. Organisations handle everything from sourcing animals to distribution, giving donors peace of mind.

 

Another key reason people donate is the opportunity for global distribution. Instead of keeping the meat locally, many choose to send their Qurbani to countries where it is needed most.

 

In many parts of the world, families struggle to afford basic food, and meat is rarely available. By donating overseas, your Qurbani can provide essential nutrition to vulnerable communities, including orphans, widows and those living in poverty.

 

Qurbani in the UK has therefore become not only a religious act, but also a way to make a wider impact by supporting those in need across the world.

 

Can You Give Qurbani Online?

Yes, you can give Qurbani online through trusted charities, making the process simple and accessible. The donation model allows you to select your Qurbani option, choose a country/region and complete your payment securely online.

 

Once your donation is made, the charity handles the entire process on your behalf. This includes sourcing suitable animals, carrying out the sacrifice during the days of Eid al-Adha and distributing the meat to those in need.

 

Giving Qurbani online offers great convenience, especially for those who may not have access to local facilities or prefer a hassle-free option. It removes the need to arrange slaughter, transport or distribution yourself.

 

The trust factor is also important. Reputable charities ensure that your Qurbani is performed according to Islamic guidelines and reaches vulnerable communities. This gives you peace of mind that your obligation is fulfilled correctly.

 

? Donate your Qurbani online today

Qurbani vs Udhiya – Is There a Difference?

Qurbani and Udhiya are two terms used to describe the same act of sacrifice performed during Eid al-Adha. The difference is mainly in terminology, not in meaning.

The word Qurbani is commonly used in South Asian communities, while Udhiya is the Arabic term used in Islamic texts. Both refer to the act of sacrificing an animal during the days of Dhul Hijjah as an act of worship.

There is no difference in the rules, purpose or method. Whether it is called Qurbani or Udhiya, the act remains the same and follows the same Islamic guidelines.

Both terms represent an act of devotion, obedience and charity. The sacrifice is carried out to remember the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and to share blessings with those in need.

In simple terms, Qurbani and Udhiya are just different names for the same practice. The meaning, significance and reward remain the same regardless of which term is used.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Qurbani

Qurbani is an important act of worship, but common mistakes can affect whether it is valid or properly fulfilled. Understanding these mistakes helps ensure your Qurbani is carried out correctly.

One of the most common issues is missing the correct time. Qurbani must be performed after the Eid al-Adha prayer and within the three designated days, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Any sacrifice done before the Eid prayer or after this period is not valid.

Another mistake is choosing the wrong animal. The animal must meet specific requirements, including age, health and condition. Animals that are too young, weak or have visible defects do not qualify for Qurbani. It is important to ensure the animal meets all Islamic guidelines.

A further mistake is not meeting the Nisab requirement. Qurbani is only required for those who are financially able. If someone does not meet the minimum wealth threshold, they are not obligated to perform Qurbani. On the other hand, those who do meet Nisab should not neglect this responsibility.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your Qurbani is valid, meaningful and carried out in accordance with Islamic principles.

 

Benefits and Importance of Qurbani

Qurbani holds deep spiritual and social significance in Islam. It is not only an act of sacrifice but also a way to strengthen faith and connection with Allah.

One of the key benefits of Qurbani is the spiritual reward. It reflects obedience, sincerity and willingness to follow Allah’s commands. The act reminds Muslims that true devotion comes from intention and faith, not just actions. As mentioned in the Qur’an, “It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:37).

Qurbani also has a strong social impact. It brings people together during Eid al-Adha and encourages sharing and generosity. Families, friends and communities benefit from the distribution of meat, creating a sense of unity and compassion.

Another important aspect is helping communities in need. Qurbani provides fresh, nutritious meat to vulnerable families who may not have access to it throughout the year. This supports better health and allows them to take part in the joy of Eid.

Through Qurbani, Muslims fulfil a religious duty while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

 

Give Your Qurbani Today

Qurbani is more than a sacrifice — it is an opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life.

For many families around the world, Eid al-Adha passes without the means to afford basic food. Your Qurbani can change that. It can provide fresh, nutritious meat to those who need it most and bring joy to homes facing hardship.

By giving your Qurbani, you are not only fulfilling an important act of worship, but also helping vulnerable communities experience the true spirit of Eid. It is a chance to turn your sacrifice into hope, relief and dignity for others.

As Eid approaches, demand increases and availability becomes limited. Acting early ensures your Qurbani is carried out on time and reaches those in need during the blessed days.

Don’t wait until the last moment. Secure your Qurbani today and give with confidence.

? Donate your Qurbani now

FAQs

Qurbani means sacrificing an animal during Eid al-Adha as an act of worship. It is done to follow the command of Allah and remember the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It also involves sharing meat with those in need.

Qurbani is important because it reflects obedience, faith and gratitude to Allah. It reminds Muslims of the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and encourages generosity. It is both a spiritual act and a way to support others.

The purpose of Qurbani is to show devotion to Allah and to strengthen one’s faith. It is also meant to help others by distributing meat to those in need. This makes it both an act of worship and charity.

Qurbani symbolises sacrifice, obedience and trust in Allah. It represents the willingness to give up something valuable for the sake of faith. It also reflects compassion by sharing with others.

Qurbani is based on the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. Before the sacrifice took place, Allah replaced his son with a ram. This story is remembered each year during Eid al-Adha.

The practice of Qurbani began with Prophet Ibrahim (AS). His act of obedience became a lasting example for Muslims. It continues today as a way to honour his faith and follow his example.

Qurbani is performed after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. It can be carried out over three days, ending on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah. The exact dates may vary depending on moon sighting.

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