When will Qurbani Start?

The Qurbani sacrifice is typically performed from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah, immediately after the Eid prayer. Eligible Muslims, those who have reached puberty and possess the financial means beyond their basic needs are encouraged to offer this sacrifice.

The animals used for Qurbani must meet specific criteria:

Sheep and goats: at least 1 year old

Cattle: at least 2 years old

Camels: at least 5 years old

They must also be free of defects and healthy, ensuring that only the best is offered to Allah (SWT).

Can Qurbani be done for deceased?

The beauty of Qurbani is that it can be performed on behalf of oneself as well on behalf of others, including deceased loved ones, family members who are unable to perform it themselves or those who are physically incapable. The intention behind performing Qurbani on behalf of someone else is to share the blessings and rewards of the Sunnah with them.

Why Qurbani is given

The meat from the Qurbani sacrifice is divided into three parts: one part for the individual or family making the sacrifice, one part for relatives and friends and one part for those in need. This distribution emphasises the importance of sharing and caring for others, especially the less fortunate. It is a way of spreading happiness and unity within the community.

The essence of Qurbani lies in the intention and sincerity behind the sacrifice. It is a symbol of devotion, gratitude and piety towards Allah (SWT). The Quran mentions in Surah Al-Haj Verse 37 the significance of the sacrifices made during Eid-ul-Adha:

 "It’s not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah (SWT), it is your piety that reaches Him."

In a world where millions suffer from hunger and displacement, this sacred practice becomes a source of relief and dignity for the vulnerable. When performed sincerely and distributed justly, Qurbani becomes an act of mercy that transcends boundaries, uniting the Muslim Ummah in a shared act of charity and compassion.

What is Qurbani in Islam?

Qurbani, also referred to as Udhiyah in Arabic, is one of the most spiritually significant rituals in Islam. Performed during the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic Lunar calendar, Qurbani commemorates a momentous event in Islamic History. The willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Ismaeel (AS) as an act of obedience to Allah (SWT)’s command. This act of sacrifice demonstrates faith, obedience and gratitude to Allah (SWT).

How Qurbani Started

Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded in a dream by Allah (SWT) to sacrifice his son Ismaeel (AS). As difficult as it was, Prophet Ibrahim did not hesitate to fulfill the command of Allah (SWT). Both father and son demonstrated remarkable submission and trust in Allah (SWT)’s wisdom.

Just as Ibrahim (AS) was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah (SWT) intervened and replaced Ismaeel (AS) with a ram. This moment signifies that Allah (SWT) values intention and obedience over the act itself.

That was truly a revealing test. And We ransomed his son with great sacrifice.

Surah As Saffat: Verse 106-107

Fulfilling your Qurbani serves as a spiritual purification. A means of getting closer to Allah (SWT) by parting with something of value, and a way to express gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His countless blessings. It instils a sense of compassion and empathy for those in need and teaches us valuable lessons in self-discipline and selflessness.

Maximize the Last Ten Days of Ramadan - A time of Salvation and Protection from Hellfire

As the sacred month of Ramadan nears its end, we enter the most blessed and spiritually significant period, the last ten nights. A time of Salvation and Protection from Hellfire - an opportunity to seek Allah (SWT)’s mercy, forgiveness and gain immense rewards.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) intensified his worship during these nights, setting an example for us to follow. This is our chance to maximize our ibadah (worship), increase in dua and give generously in the way of Allah (SWT).

The last ten nights hold unparalleled rewards. To make the most of these days:

✅ Renew your intentions

✅ Increase in night prayers and dua

✅ Seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT)

The Night of Power: A Lifetime of Rewards

Among these nights lies Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, a night greater than a thousand months. A single good deed on this night is equivalent to worshiping for over 83 years.

The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months Surah Al-Qadr Verse 3

Practical Ways to Multiply Your Rewards

Ramadan is the month of generosity and the last ten days offer an unmatched opportunity to give in charity.

1. Give Sadaqah every night

Ensure you don’t miss the reward of Laylatul Qadr by giving a charity every night in the last ten days.

2. Support those in need

Give support by feeding a fasting person.

3. Increase in good deeds and kindness

Every act of giving and kindness brings barakah.

This blessed month has been a journey of faith, patience and transformation where our hearts softened, our prayers deepened and our generosity flourished.

These last ten nights are our final chance to seek Allah (SWT)’s mercy and to multiply our good deeds. Every dua whispered in the stillness of the night, every tear shed in sincere repentance and every act of charity extended to those in need will never be forgotten by Allah (SWT).

May Allah (SWT) grant us the immense rewards and blessings of these final days, Ameen.

Entering the days of Maghfirah (Forgiveness), A Time for Deep Reflection and Repentance

As we journey through the sacred month of Ramadan, we now enter its second phase - the blessed ten days of Maghfirah (Forgiveness). Having experienced Allah (SWT) boundless mercy in the first ten days, our hearts turn toward seeking His forgiveness and drawing closer to Him.

During the second ten days of Ramadan we have the opportunity to reassess our actions, seek sincere forgiveness and strive for spiritual renewal.

Practical Ways to Seek Forgiveness

1. Give in Charity

Charity (Zakah and Sadaqah) is not just an act of generosity, it is a means of spiritual purification and drawing closer to Allah (SWT).

2. Cleanse the Heart

Free yourself from spiritual ailments such as envy, pride and hatred. Forgive others, mend broken relationships and cultivate a heart full of love and compassion.

3. Sincere Repentance

Reflect deeply on past shortcomings, make a firm commitment to avoid them, and seek Allah’s (SWT) guidance to remain steadfast in goodness.

4. Increase in Istighfar

Aishah (RA) reported: Prior to his demise, the Messenger of Allah (SWT) used to supplicate frequently: Subhan Allahi wa bihamdihi; Astaghfirullaha wa atubu ilaihi (Allah (SWT) is free from imperfection and I begin with praising Him. I beg forgiveness from Allah (SWT) and I turn to Him in repentance." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

As we journey through these blessed days, let us turn to Allah (SWT) with sincerity, seeking His boundless mercy and forgiveness. May He accept our fasting, acts of worship and grant us complete forgiveness. Ameen.