Essence of Sacrifice: Learn How Qurbani Brings Muslims Together

April 21, 2025

Every year during Eid al-Adha, millions of Muslims around the world gather to revive the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) by coming together to perform Qurbani on Eid Al-Adha. This occasion reflects compassion and devotion to Allah’s will while strengthening the bonds within communities by ensuring that the blessings of Eid are shared with the less fortunate. This blog will explore how Qurbani brings Muslims together across the globe.

Understanding the Islamic Tradition of Sacrifice during Eid al-Adha

The Islamic tradition of sacrifice during Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s (SWT) command. Eid ul-Adha, the festive celebration that follows Qurbani, marks the conclusion of Hazrat Ibrahim’s (A.S) test of faith. As a response to this sacrifice, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) witnessed the divine intervention of Allah, who replaced his son with a ram for the sacrifice. This noble act highlights the significance of the values like gratitude, charity, and unity and about how Qurbani brings Muslims together within a community.

Muslims gathering for Eid prayers

The Spiritual Meaning Behind Qurbani Sacrifice in Islam

The Qurbani sacrifice in Islam signifies the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) symbolising submission to Allah (SWT). The spiritual meaning behind Qurbani is to renew the connection with Allah (SWT) and do something valuable for the sake of righteousness, just as Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) did.

“If you love Allah, then follow me, and Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Qur’an 3:31)

This reference truly translates the Qurbani meaning and its essence. By participating in sacrifice, you demonstrate your love for Allah and His Messenger, and in return, you receive abundant forgiveness and mercy.

How Qurbani Strengthens Muslims Bonds Together?

Eid Al-Adha and Qurbani is that occasion that conveys a sense of community by bringing all the Muslims together. From offering Eid prayers to greeting each other and then offering the obligatory Qurbani on Eid – this is one aspect of how Qurbani brings Muslims together. In addition to this, it always highlights the significance of how we should share the blessings with those who cannot afford to perform Qurbani. By giving Qurbani meat and helping those in need, the Eid of sacrifice strengthens Muslims bonds together on this auspicious time of the year in Dhul Hijjah.

Global distribution of Qurbani meat

The Global Impact of Qurbani: From Local to International Unity

Qurbani or sacrifice on Eid Al-Adha is a ritual that serves as a bridge connecting Muslims worldwide. Muslims from all over the world celebrate this time by coming together to share the blessings with those in need and express their gratitude towards Allah Almighty. For the Muslims living overseas, it is sometimes difficult to decide how they should perform Qurbani. However, different charity organisations like Al-Wahab Foundation are there to make their Qurbani reach the most deserving as per Shariah guidelines. Furthermore, the synchronised act of worshipping leaves a global impact of Qurbani while strengthening a compassionate bond in the Muslim world.

Practical Guide to Performing Qurbani

Qurbani or sacrifice of at least one animal is obligated to perform every year by every sane Muslim with a minimum Nisab value (of savings).
Here is a practical guide to performing Qurbani as per the Shariah guidelines:

  • ● Choose a halal and healthy animal like sheep, cow, buffalo, camel etc and verify its age.
  • ● Make niyyah or intention for performing the Qurbani.
  • ● Sharpen the knife before Qurbani so that it ensures minimal pain to the sacrificial animal.
  • ● Lay the animal gently on the left side facing the Qiblah.
  • ● Say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” before slaughtering the animal.
  • ● Let the blood drain completely and ensure that the animal is completely dead before skinning off and cutting.
  • ● Divide into three equal parts: 1/3 for yourself and family, 1/3 for relatives and friends, and 1/3 for the poor and needy.
  • ● Distribute the meat as per the division while making sure it reaches the most deserving as this is how Qurbani brings Muslims together.

AWF Qurbani meat distribution system: Sharing with the Needy

Every year, Al-Wahab Foundation distributes Qurbani meat through its Qurbani appeal to help those in need. The team ensures to follow Shariah guidelines in performing Qurbani on behalf of the donors who contribute to offer this obligation. The Qurbani process is carried out in Pakistan where Qurbani meat distribution is then done among the underprivileged. Through AWF’s Qurbani donation last year, the team provided sacrificial meat to 31,832 beneficiaries giving them hope and nourishment. The aim is to reach out to many more this year and make them a part of Eid Al-Adha celebration.

Qurbani meat distribution to the needy

Modern Ways How Muslims Celebrate Qurbani Together

In today’s world, the modern ways how Qurbani brings Muslims together to celebrate this blessed occasion include both traditional and contemporary practices. Traditionally, Muslims go to the market to purchase and then feed the animals before Eid day. They make arrangements for slaughtering at their homes. However, modern ways include booking the Qurbani online through any trustworthy charity organisation, donating the amount for purchasing the animal and the charity performs the Qurbani on your behalf. The meat is then distributed among the most deserving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Qurbani and why is it important?

Every year during Dhul Hijjah, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal called Qurbani which means sacrifice. This sacrifice is performed to honour the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) as per the willingness of Allah (SWT).

How does Qurbani strengthen Muslim communities?

Qurbani strengthens Muslim communities by sharing the spirit of unity, gratitude, and empathy by practicing the obligatory Qurbani or sacrifice. It promotes a message of harmony and coming together to help those in need.

Is Qurbani compulsory for Muslims?

For those looking for “Is Qurbani compulsory for Muslims”, the answer is yes. For all sane, adult Muslims who are not travelers and possess wealth equal to or more than the current Nisab threshold should perform Qurbani on Eid Al-Adha.

Who is Qurbani compulsory on?

For the people looking for “who is Qurbani compulsory on”, every sane adult Muslim possessing wealth equal to or more than current Nisab threshold should mandatorily perform Qurbani.

What are the key requirements for a valid Qurbani?

The key requirements for a valid Qurbani include purchasing a healthy animal of the appropriate age that is free of defects and is slaughtered following the Shariah guidelines within the prescribed time. The sacrifice must be performed with a sharp knife, by making niyyah and reciting “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”.

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