5 Myths Around Qurbani – Debunked

Each year when Eid al-Adha comes around, Qurbani – the ritual sacrifice of livestock – takes place. For some, the meaning of this sacrifice might not be apparent. 

For reverts, or even Muslims growing up with limited Islamic education, it might also be a source of confusion. In cases like these, clarity over rulings and the practicalities of how to carry out and organise Qurbani, is not easy to come by.  

Below, readers will find an introductory, Shariah-compliant guide for fulfilling Qurbani. 

Qurbani or Udhiyya is the ritual sacrifice Muslims make around Eid Al-Adha, which falls in Dhul Hijjah, just after Hajj. It is a commemoration of the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was commanded by Allah (swt) to offer his son, Ismail (AS), as a test of his faith. Ibrahim (AS) complied, and with His mercy, Allah (swt) spared Ismail (AS) and replacing him with a ram. 

Today, when Dhul Hijjah comes around, Muslims around the world commemorate this moment through the act of Qurbani. But before engaging, there are a few key rulings and common practices to keep in mind. 

1. Qurbani is not compulsory for all Muslims  

In the Hanafi school, it is wajib (mandatory), and in all other schools, it is Sunnah Muakkadah (strongly encouraged) for adult Muslims of sound mind, and who possess wealth equal to or above the nisab threshold (surplus savings, gold, silver, investments). It is therefore not obligatory for those who do not meet the nisab, nor for children and those who are not of sound mind. There is a scholarly difference regarding travellers, with some schools granting an exemption.  

Every adult Muslim who does have the capacity to pay for the Qurbani, however, must do so for themselves. Notably, it is not the responsibility of the male head of the house to cover the costs of each person in the household. They may, however, choose to pay for children as an additional charitable act, but this is not a requirement. 

2. Money cannot be donated instead  

While charity is virtuous and it is highly recommended to increase charitable acts during Dhul Hijjah as the first ten days of the month are considered the most holy within the Islamic calendar, money cannot replace Qurbani. Sacrifice is a separate act of worship for those who qualify during Eid. Money can, however, be given to a trusted individual or charity to perform Qurbani on one’s behalf.

3. Not all animals can be used for Qurbani  

The animal must meet specific age requirements (sheep or goats: 1+ years; cows: 2+ years; camels: 5+ years) and must be healthy. Animals that are blind, diseased, or missing a significant part of their ears or tail are not suitable. Islamic law emphasises the welfare and dignified treatment of the animal both in its rearing and in its sacrifice. The sacrifice must be swift, done with a sharp knife, and in accordance with humane, ethical, and Islamic guidelines to minimise pain.

4. The slaughter can be done by another person

Many choose to perform the Qurbani themselves, and they are entirely within their right to do so. But others choose to delegate this to another trustworthy person or charity to organise and perform the sacrifice on their behalf. In the UK, for example, this is a more convenient option, and is the most commonly method used today. Further, it can maximise impact as charities often distribute meat in areas facing severe poverty. Fulfilling Qurbani through a charity can also reduce waste, surpluses of meat are often found in wealthier countries during Eid, and international distribution via charities helps to redistribute this surplus where it is most needed. Established charities like Muslim Aid, with more than 40 years of experience, have robust systems in place to ensure Qurbani is carried out correctly in partnership with trusted local organisations. 

5. All meat should not be kept by the household to eat  

The household should not keep hold of all the meat. While it is permissible for the household to keep a third, it is recommended to divide the meat into three parts, with the other two-thirds to be distributed to neighbours, family, and particularly the poor. For poorer communities in the Global South, Qurbani serves as one of the only opportunities to consume meat during the year, and the portions often last long after Eid Al-Adha.  

As described in the Qur'an (22:37), “neither their meat nor blood reaches Allah. Rather, it is your piety that reaches Him.” Thus, Qurbani is not simply about the slaughter itself but about the sacrifice and obedience to Allah that underlie it. 

With the correct knowledge and understanding, Qurbani becomes a meaningful act of worship rooted in sincerity, obedience, and compassion. Beyond the animal sacrifice, it is a reminder of the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and a way of strengthening one’s connection to Allah through concrete action.