What is Eid Qurbani in Islam?

“So turn in prayer towards your Lord and sacrifice.” (108:2)

Eid Al-Adha, which marks the completion of the pilgrimage to Makkah, is just a few weeks away. With Eid fast approaching, it’s time to think about Qurbani.

In the religion of Islam, the sacred tradition of Qurbani is an act steeped in significance but one that also benefits the poor and needy. 

Let’s have a look at why Muslims give Qurban.

What is Qurbani?

One night in a dream, the prophet Ibrahim (a.s.) was instructed to sacrifice his son Ismail to Allah (swt). When Ibrahim told Ismail about the dream, they both agreed to submit to the will of Allah (swt). Ismail then lay to be sacrificed for the sake of Allah (swt).

As prophet Ibrahim (a.s.) was preparing to sacrifice his son, Allah (swt) called down:

“O Ibrahim! You have done my bidding and now you will be rewarded!”

Then suddenly, a large ram appeared as an alternative sacrifice, and instead of killing his son, the prophet slaughtered the sheep for the glory of Allah (swt).

The word Qurbani means sacrifice. As Muslims, we reflect upon the remarkable sacrifice the prophet Ibrahim (a.s) was willing to make for the sake of Allah (swt). 

Every year in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal to reflect this sacrifice. Meat from the sacrificed animal is then given to those in need. 

Giving Qurbani is recommended for every Muslim who is financially able to do so—and it also means that you can share the joy of Eid Al-Adha with those in need around the world. Your Qurbani is a way to honour the commitment of Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.).

In the Holy Quran, Allah (swt) says:

“You will not attain righteousness unless you give of that which you love; and whatever thing you spend, Allah (SWT) surely knows it.” (Al Qur’an 3:92)

Help the needy this Eid by following in the footsteps of the prophets.

When does Qurbani take place?

Every year from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah, Muslims perform Qurbani sacrifices.

When is Qurbani due?

Qurbani is due after Eid prayer on the first day of Eid ul Adha until the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.  

Click here to give your Qurbani this year to those in need

What is the purpose of Qurbani?

Giving your Qurbani can help feed people in some of the world’s poorest countries, where many are facing famine and extreme poverty. For many of these people, it’s the only time of year they get to eat meat.

Who should give Qurbani?

Qurbani is obligatory for those who can undertake Hajj and carries immense rewards when performed by those who are unable to go.

When is Eid al-Adha?

The second Eid of the Islamic calendar, Eid Al-Adha, occurs on the tenth day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah and lasts three to four days, depending on where you are. The exact date each year depends on the sighting of the new moon. As with Eid ul-Fitr, the main focus of Eid festivities is getting together with loved ones, sharing food, praying, and dressing up for the occasion.

How will my Qurbani help those in need?

The Zahra Trust slaughtered more than 3,500 animals last year for distribution, which benefited more than 80,000 people. Our global staff is ready to fulfill your sacrifice and provide assistance to people in need once again this year.

For many families, this is the last opportunity they will have to eat meat this year because of the sacrifices made by The Zahra Trust team, which works to help local agricultural communities by buying meat from healthy cattle.

The objective of The Zahra Trust is to help individuals suffering from war, poverty, and starvation by providing basic philanthropic needs, enabling them to live, and empowering them to become self-sufficient, so that they will no longer require help. Since its inception in 2008, The Zahra Trust has offered international aid to millions of individuals in hundreds of communities throughout the world. We make certain that your donations reach individuals who need them the most.

In this festive season, remember to show your gratitude to Allah for all of His blessings and the opportunity to follow this wonderful Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim. Please remember your less fortunate Muslim brothers and sisters who cannot participate in this wonderful event because of financial constraints.

During a time when many people all over the globe are still suffering from a worldwide pandemic, famine, and poverty all at the same time, a small donation can make a huge difference. 

This Eid, you can help make Eid Al-Adha even more special by helping feed those who need your help the most. 

Give Eid Qurbani today with The Zahra Trust