THE FIRST SACRIFICE
The first sacrifice of an animal in the name of Allah was presented by Haabeel, the son of Adam (a.s.). In Surah Maa'ida, the Qur'an describes the incident of Haabeel and Kaabeel. Both were asked to present a sacrifice. It is narrated that Haabeel's sacrificial offering was a lamb. From the above it is clear that sacrificing animals in the name of Allah, as an act of worship, is nothing new. Rather it is something that dates back to the time of the first man on earth.
THE SUNNAH OF THE PROPHET IBRAHEEM (A.S.)
The sacrifice of animals annually on the occasion of Eidul Adha is linked to the sacrifice of Ibraheem (a.s.). The following hadith explains this link to Ibraheem (a.s.):
Zaid bin Arqam (r.a.) narrates that the companions of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) enquired; "O Prophet of Allah, what are these sacrifices (of animals)." He replied; "It is the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem (a.s.)." The Sahaaba further enquired, "What benefit is there in it for us O Prophet of Allah." Rasulullah (s.a.w.) replied; "You will be rewarded for every hair on it's (the sacrificed animals) body ... and for every fibre of wool."
(Mishkaat Vol. 1 p. 129).
To understand how this Ibaadah is linked to Ibraheem (a.s.) we will have to refer to the books of History. The incident regarding the "Qurbani" of Ibraheem (a.s.) is a very lengthy one. We will merely discuss the main aspects of the astounding spirit of sacrifice displayed on this occasion.
Allah Ta'ala had granted Ibraheem (a.s.) a son at a very old age. When this beloved son, Ismaeel (a.s.), was a young boy, Ibraheem (a.s.) saw in a dream that he was slaughtering his son. This dream was experienced on three consecutive nights. The dreams of the Prophets being true and a source of revelation, Ibraheem (a.s.) realized that this was a command of Allah Ta'ala. Hence, he immediately undertook to fulfill this command. In order to prepare his son to submit to the order of Allah, Ibraheem (a.s.) consulted with his son Ismaeel (a.s.) regarding the said command. Ismail (a.s.) unhesitatingly submitted to the order of Allah Ta'ala and assured his father that he would patiently undergo this sacrifice.
Ibraheem (a.s.), together with his son, proceeded to the place of sacrifice. On three occasions Shaytaan attempted to divert them but these exemplary servants of Allah foisted his treacherous plans. Eventually Ibraheem (a.s.) placed his son down and began to pass the knife over his throat. However, as much as he tried, the knife would not penetrate. Finally, a voice was heard from above saying: "O Ibraheem you have surely fulfilled the dream" (Surah 37 Aayah 108). Jibraeel (a.s.), the angel appeared with a sheep from Jannah and Ibraheem (a.s.) was ordered to sacrifice it in place of his beloved son.
(Maariful Qur'an Vol. 7 pp. 457-46 1).
In commemoration of this astonishing and mind boggling spirit of sacrifice, Allah Ta'ala ordered the Ummah of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) to sacrifice an animal on the occasion of Eidul Adha, hence Rasulullah (s.a.w.) described it as "the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem" (Ibn Majah, Mishkaat vol. 1 p. 129).
THE COMMAND OF QURBAANI
The command of Qurbani is found both in the Quran and Ahaadith. In Surah Al-Kawthar. Allah Ta'ala says: "And perform Salaah for your Sustainer and sacrifice" (Surah:108 V. 2)
Ibn Katheer (r.a.) writes the following in the tafseer (commentary) of this Aayah: "The words of Allah 'and perform Salaah for your Sustainer and Sacrifice ...' (means) and sacrifice in the name of Allah alone who has no partner. After having discussed the above aayah at length, Ibn Katheer (r.a.) concludes his discussion in the following words: "The correct view is that "Nahr" (in the verse) refers to the slaughtering of Qurbani animals. It is for this reason that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) used to (first) perform his Eid Salaah and then slaughter his animals (thus maintaining the sequence of the injunction in the verse). Rasulullah (s.a.w.) would then say; "He who has performed our Salaah (i.e. in the manner that we perform it) and slaughtered the animals like us (i.e. after the Eid Salaah), he has indeed correctly discharged his Qurbani. However, he who has slaughtered his animals before the salaah, there is no Qurbani for him" (Bukhari and Muslim).
(Ibn Katheer Vol. 4 p. 558).
From the above discussion it becomes apparent to the discerning reader that the aayah refers to the slaughtering of the Qurbani animals. Hence, it is proved beyond the slightest measure of doubt that the order of Qurbani is proven from the Quran itself.
VIRTUES OF THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF ZHUL HIJJAH
"By the Dawn! And the ten nights! And the even and the odd!" (Holy Quran 89:1-3)
Allah Ta'ala has declared the first ten days of the month of Zhul Hijjah to be a period of exceptional benevolence. As a mark of distinction, Allah Ta'ala has manifested the sanctity of these "Ten Nights" in the Holy Quran. The majority of scholars believe that the "Ten Nights" refer to the first ten nights of Zhul Hijjah. It is for this reason that Hajj is performed during these days.
An additional significance of this month is the fact that the day of Arafaat is found in it. The day of Arafaat falls on the ninth of Zhul Hijjah. The hadith mentions the special significance and great excellence relating to the first 10 days of Zhul Hijjah.
Ibn Abbas (r.a.) relates that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, "On no other days are good deeds more liked by Allah than on these days, the first ten days of Zhul Hijjah." (BUKHARI)
It is reported from Abu Huraira (r.a.) that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, "On no days is the worship of Allah Ta'ala more loved than in the first 10 days of Zhul Hijjah. The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of a whole year, and the Ibaadah of each of these nights is equal to the Ibaadah of Laila-tul-Qadr.'
(TIRMIZI & IBN MAJAH)
Abu Qatadah al-Ansari (r.a.) relates that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) was asked about the saum (fast) on the day of Arafaat (9th Zhul Hijjah). He said, "It compensates for the minor sins of the past year and the coming year." (MUSLIM)
NOTE: This fast is Mustahab. There is no sin if it is not observed.
TAKBEER OF TASHREEK
Allaahu Akbar, Allaahu Akbar. Laa ilaaha illallaahu wallaahu Akbar. Allaahu Akbar walillaahil hamd
Translation: "Allah is most great. Allah is most great. There is no Deity besides Allah and Allah is most Great. Allah is most Great and Verily all praises are for Allah."
It is waajib to recite this Takbeer audibly once after every Fard salah from the morning of the ninth of Zhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) till the Asr salah of the thirteenth of Dhul Hijjah. The ruling is that the one that performs salah with Jamaa'ah/ congregation, and the one that performs it alone are the same as far as this law is concerned i.e. it is necessary to recite the Takbeer. It is waajib on both male and female. Females should not say the Takbeeraat loudly but softly. (Shami). It is Mustahab (desirable) for those who read their salah individually (men or women) and Musafirs (travellers) to recite the Takbeeraat softly.
VIRTUES OF SACRIFICE / qurbani
It is related by Aayesha (r.a.) that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, 'There is nothing dearer to Allah Ta'ala during the days of sacrifice than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the day of Qiyamah with its horns, hair and hooves (to be weighed in reward). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah Ta'ala before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore sacrifice with an open and happy heart." (Tirmizhi, Ibn Majah)
Zaid ibn Arqam (r.a.) related that the companions of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) asked, "O Rasulullah, what is sacrifice?" He replied, "it is the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem". They asked again, "What benefit do we get from it?" he answered, "A reward for every hair of the sacrificed animal." And what reward is there for animals with wool?" they asked. "A reward," he said, 'for every fibre of the wool." (Ibn Majah, Musnad Ahmad, Mishkaat)
ON WHOM IS SACRIFICE COMPULSORY/ WAAJIB ?
Sacrifice during the days of Eid-ul-Adha is waajib (compulsory) on all Muslims (male and female) who own wealth to the value of the Zakaat Nisaab (prescribed amount) on these days of sacrifice (10th, 11th and 12th Zhul Hijjah). The Nisaab value is the price of 19,68 troy ounces of gold or 612,3 grams of silver. Whoever possesses this amount of wealth during this period should make the sacrifice. (Please refer to the home page for the exact dollar amount under the NISAAB table)
THE DAYS OF SACRIFICE
The days of sacrifice are the 10th, 11th and 12th Zhul Hijjah. The actual time commences from after the Eid salah and lasts just until before sunset on the 12th Dhul Hijjah. Although it is permissible to make sacrifice during the night, it is not advisable. The best day for the sacrifice is on the day of Eid. Sacrifice made before the Eid salah is not valid.
THE SACRIFICIAL ANIMAL
The following types of animals can be offered for sacrifice: Camels, oxen, buffaloes, goats and sheep. Besides these animals, no other animals can be offered for sacrifice.
A camel has to be at least five years old. Camels less than five years are not valid for sacrifice. Oxen and buffaloes must not be less than two years. Goats should be at least one year old. Goats less than one year are not valid for sacrificing. Sheep too should be at least one year. However, if a sheep less than a year is of such a size that it resembles a sheep of one year then its sacrifice will be valid. This applies only to sheep.
A camel, ox, cow and buffalo have seven shares in each. In other words, seven persons may sacrifice a single one of these animals. One person may also sacrifice the whole animal for his own sacrifice. A goat or a sheep has only one share. Hence, a goat or a sheep can be sacrificed on behalf of only one person.
ANIMALS WITH DEFECTS
For the validity of the sacrifice it is essential that the animals are free of defect. The sacrifice will not be valid if a defective animal is sacrificed. The following faults are some examples that will be regarded as defects for the purpose of sacrifice: Blindness in both or one eye, A third or more of an ear cut off, A third or more of the tail cut off, An extremely emaciated and weak animal.
RULES OBSERVED AT THE TIME OF SLAUGHTER
The animal to be slaughtered should first be fed and watered; it should not be slaughtered when it is hungry and thirsty.
It should not be dragged along to the place of slaughter.
It should be laid on the ground with ease as it is abominable to use undue force.
It should be laid on the ground on its left side facing the Qiblah, so that it may die easily.
The knife should be sharp; it should never be slaughtered with a blunt knife.
If the knife is to be sharpened, it should not be sharpened in front of the animal.
An animal should not be slaughtered in the presence of another.
As soon as the animal has been placed on the ground, one should hurry to slaughter it, undue delay must be avoided.
The animal should not be slaughtered with such force that the head is severed or the knife reaches the spinal cord.
(Hidaya and Shami)
The above mentioned injunctions are not peculiar to sacrificial animals only; they are meant for any animal that is to be slaughtered.
IMPORTANT REGULATIONS
* It is better to slaughter one's own sacrifice with one's own hands. However, if one does not know how to slaughter, then it is permissible to let someone else slaughter it. It is better to be present when the animal is being slaughtered. This applies to women also, who should be in veil while the sacrifice is being made on her behalf.
* Sacrifice is only waajib (necessary) on one's self and not on behalf of any other member of the family. If there is a minor in the family who is rich, even then it is not necessary to sacrifice on his behalf either from his own wealth or from the minor's wealth. If sacrifice is made on behalf of the minor, then the money should not be taken from the minor's wealth. Such a sacrifice will be regarded as optional (nafl).
* Seven people are allowed to share a cow, camel or buffalo for sacrifice on condition that no person's share should be less than 1/7 of the cow, and that everyone's intention must either be for sacrifice or for Aqeeqa. If any one of the shareholder's share is less than 1/7, then no one's sacrifice will be correct, (even those who have been given a full share).
* If an animal is selected for sacrifice, its milk, wool, hair, etc. have to be given as charity to the poor; or if these are sold, it is compulsory that the money obtained be given to the poor.
* If sacrifice is waajib on a person and the days of Nahr (sacrifice) pass by and he has failed to sacrifice the animal, then he should give charity to the value of a sheep or a goat. If he had already bought an animal then the same animal should be given away as charity.
* The meat of the animal shared by partners should be distributed by weight and not by estimation
* Preferably the sacrificial meat should be divided into three parts. One part should be kept for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. One who has a large family may keep all the meat.It is Haraam to sell the sarificial meat.
* The sacrificial meal can also be given to people of other faiths on condition that it is not given as a payment for labour.
* When slaughtering it is not necessary to read the niyyat (intention) and dua aloud. If one has made niyyat in one's heart, then uttering only Bismillah-Allahu-Akbar before slaughtering is correct. However if one knows the dua, then it is better to read it.
A person may eat the meat of every sacrificed animal that is slaughtered, be it a waajib or nafl. It is not permissible for one to eat from a sacrificial animal that is slaughtered as a vow (NAZR), nor a Kaffaarah for a Jinaayat (error/mistake) committed during Hajj, nor is one's children allowed to partake of it. Only the poor and destitute have the right to it.
1. A goat purchased for sacrifice MUST be at least a year old and above, otherwise the sacrifice will not be valid.
2. A cow MUST be 2 years old and above.
3. If a sheep is less than a year old, but it is such a size that it resembles a sheep of one year, then its sacrifice will be valid.
The first sacrifice of an animal in the name of Allah was presented by Haabeel, the son of Adam (a.s.). In Surah Maa'ida, the Qur'an describes the incident of Haabeel and Kaabeel. Both were asked to present a sacrifice. It is narrated that Haabeel's sacrificial offering was a lamb. From the above it is clear that sacrificing animals in the name of Allah, as an act of worship, is nothing new. Rather it is something that dates back to the time of the first man on earth.
THE SUNNAH OF THE PROPHET IBRAHEEM (A.S.)
The sacrifice of animals annually on the occasion of Eidul Adha is linked to the sacrifice of Ibraheem (a.s.). The following hadith explains this link to Ibraheem (a.s.):
Zaid bin Arqam (r.a.) narrates that the companions of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) enquired; "O Prophet of Allah, what are these sacrifices (of animals)." He replied; "It is the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem (a.s.)." The Sahaaba further enquired, "What benefit is there in it for us O Prophet of Allah." Rasulullah (s.a.w.) replied; "You will be rewarded for every hair on it's (the sacrificed animals) body ... and for every fibre of wool."
(Mishkaat Vol. 1 p. 129).
To understand how this Ibaadah is linked to Ibraheem (a.s.) we will have to refer to the books of History. The incident regarding the "Qurbani" of Ibraheem (a.s.) is a very lengthy one. We will merely discuss the main aspects of the astounding spirit of sacrifice displayed on this occasion.
Allah Ta'ala had granted Ibraheem (a.s.) a son at a very old age. When this beloved son, Ismaeel (a.s.), was a young boy, Ibraheem (a.s.) saw in a dream that he was slaughtering his son. This dream was experienced on three consecutive nights. The dreams of the Prophets being true and a source of revelation, Ibraheem (a.s.) realized that this was a command of Allah Ta'ala. Hence, he immediately undertook to fulfill this command. In order to prepare his son to submit to the order of Allah, Ibraheem (a.s.) consulted with his son Ismaeel (a.s.) regarding the said command. Ismail (a.s.) unhesitatingly submitted to the order of Allah Ta'ala and assured his father that he would patiently undergo this sacrifice.
Ibraheem (a.s.), together with his son, proceeded to the place of sacrifice. On three occasions Shaytaan attempted to divert them but these exemplary servants of Allah foisted his treacherous plans. Eventually Ibraheem (a.s.) placed his son down and began to pass the knife over his throat. However, as much as he tried, the knife would not penetrate. Finally, a voice was heard from above saying: "O Ibraheem you have surely fulfilled the dream" (Surah 37 Aayah 108). Jibraeel (a.s.), the angel appeared with a sheep from Jannah and Ibraheem (a.s.) was ordered to sacrifice it in place of his beloved son.
(Maariful Qur'an Vol. 7 pp. 457-46 1).
In commemoration of this astonishing and mind boggling spirit of sacrifice, Allah Ta'ala ordered the Ummah of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) to sacrifice an animal on the occasion of Eidul Adha, hence Rasulullah (s.a.w.) described it as "the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem" (Ibn Majah, Mishkaat vol. 1 p. 129).
THE COMMAND OF QURBAANI
The command of Qurbani is found both in the Quran and Ahaadith. In Surah Al-Kawthar. Allah Ta'ala says: "And perform Salaah for your Sustainer and sacrifice" (Surah:108 V. 2)
Ibn Katheer (r.a.) writes the following in the tafseer (commentary) of this Aayah: "The words of Allah 'and perform Salaah for your Sustainer and Sacrifice ...' (means) and sacrifice in the name of Allah alone who has no partner. After having discussed the above aayah at length, Ibn Katheer (r.a.) concludes his discussion in the following words: "The correct view is that "Nahr" (in the verse) refers to the slaughtering of Qurbani animals. It is for this reason that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) used to (first) perform his Eid Salaah and then slaughter his animals (thus maintaining the sequence of the injunction in the verse). Rasulullah (s.a.w.) would then say; "He who has performed our Salaah (i.e. in the manner that we perform it) and slaughtered the animals like us (i.e. after the Eid Salaah), he has indeed correctly discharged his Qurbani. However, he who has slaughtered his animals before the salaah, there is no Qurbani for him" (Bukhari and Muslim).
(Ibn Katheer Vol. 4 p. 558).
From the above discussion it becomes apparent to the discerning reader that the aayah refers to the slaughtering of the Qurbani animals. Hence, it is proved beyond the slightest measure of doubt that the order of Qurbani is proven from the Quran itself.
VIRTUES OF THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF ZHUL HIJJAH
"By the Dawn! And the ten nights! And the even and the odd!" (Holy Quran 89:1-3)
Allah Ta'ala has declared the first ten days of the month of Zhul Hijjah to be a period of exceptional benevolence. As a mark of distinction, Allah Ta'ala has manifested the sanctity of these "Ten Nights" in the Holy Quran. The majority of scholars believe that the "Ten Nights" refer to the first ten nights of Zhul Hijjah. It is for this reason that Hajj is performed during these days.
An additional significance of this month is the fact that the day of Arafaat is found in it. The day of Arafaat falls on the ninth of Zhul Hijjah. The hadith mentions the special significance and great excellence relating to the first 10 days of Zhul Hijjah.
Ibn Abbas (r.a.) relates that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, "On no other days are good deeds more liked by Allah than on these days, the first ten days of Zhul Hijjah." (BUKHARI)
It is reported from Abu Huraira (r.a.) that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, "On no days is the worship of Allah Ta'ala more loved than in the first 10 days of Zhul Hijjah. The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of a whole year, and the Ibaadah of each of these nights is equal to the Ibaadah of Laila-tul-Qadr.'
(TIRMIZI & IBN MAJAH)
Abu Qatadah al-Ansari (r.a.) relates that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) was asked about the saum (fast) on the day of Arafaat (9th Zhul Hijjah). He said, "It compensates for the minor sins of the past year and the coming year." (MUSLIM)
NOTE: This fast is Mustahab. There is no sin if it is not observed.
TAKBEER OF TASHREEK
Allaahu Akbar, Allaahu Akbar. Laa ilaaha illallaahu wallaahu Akbar. Allaahu Akbar walillaahil hamd
Translation: "Allah is most great. Allah is most great. There is no Deity besides Allah and Allah is most Great. Allah is most Great and Verily all praises are for Allah."
It is waajib to recite this Takbeer audibly once after every Fard salah from the morning of the ninth of Zhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) till the Asr salah of the thirteenth of Dhul Hijjah. The ruling is that the one that performs salah with Jamaa'ah/ congregation, and the one that performs it alone are the same as far as this law is concerned i.e. it is necessary to recite the Takbeer. It is waajib on both male and female. Females should not say the Takbeeraat loudly but softly. (Shami). It is Mustahab (desirable) for those who read their salah individually (men or women) and Musafirs (travellers) to recite the Takbeeraat softly.
VIRTUES OF SACRIFICE / qurbani
It is related by Aayesha (r.a.) that Rasulullah (s.a.w.) said, 'There is nothing dearer to Allah Ta'ala during the days of sacrifice than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the day of Qiyamah with its horns, hair and hooves (to be weighed in reward). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah Ta'ala before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore sacrifice with an open and happy heart." (Tirmizhi, Ibn Majah)
Zaid ibn Arqam (r.a.) related that the companions of Rasulullah (s.a.w.) asked, "O Rasulullah, what is sacrifice?" He replied, "it is the Sunnah of your father Ibraheem". They asked again, "What benefit do we get from it?" he answered, "A reward for every hair of the sacrificed animal." And what reward is there for animals with wool?" they asked. "A reward," he said, 'for every fibre of the wool." (Ibn Majah, Musnad Ahmad, Mishkaat)
ON WHOM IS SACRIFICE COMPULSORY/ WAAJIB ?
Sacrifice during the days of Eid-ul-Adha is waajib (compulsory) on all Muslims (male and female) who own wealth to the value of the Zakaat Nisaab (prescribed amount) on these days of sacrifice (10th, 11th and 12th Zhul Hijjah). The Nisaab value is the price of 19,68 troy ounces of gold or 612,3 grams of silver. Whoever possesses this amount of wealth during this period should make the sacrifice. (Please refer to the home page for the exact dollar amount under the NISAAB table)
THE DAYS OF SACRIFICE
The days of sacrifice are the 10th, 11th and 12th Zhul Hijjah. The actual time commences from after the Eid salah and lasts just until before sunset on the 12th Dhul Hijjah. Although it is permissible to make sacrifice during the night, it is not advisable. The best day for the sacrifice is on the day of Eid. Sacrifice made before the Eid salah is not valid.
THE SACRIFICIAL ANIMAL
The following types of animals can be offered for sacrifice: Camels, oxen, buffaloes, goats and sheep. Besides these animals, no other animals can be offered for sacrifice.
A camel has to be at least five years old. Camels less than five years are not valid for sacrifice. Oxen and buffaloes must not be less than two years. Goats should be at least one year old. Goats less than one year are not valid for sacrificing. Sheep too should be at least one year. However, if a sheep less than a year is of such a size that it resembles a sheep of one year then its sacrifice will be valid. This applies only to sheep.
A camel, ox, cow and buffalo have seven shares in each. In other words, seven persons may sacrifice a single one of these animals. One person may also sacrifice the whole animal for his own sacrifice. A goat or a sheep has only one share. Hence, a goat or a sheep can be sacrificed on behalf of only one person.
ANIMALS WITH DEFECTS
For the validity of the sacrifice it is essential that the animals are free of defect. The sacrifice will not be valid if a defective animal is sacrificed. The following faults are some examples that will be regarded as defects for the purpose of sacrifice: Blindness in both or one eye, A third or more of an ear cut off, A third or more of the tail cut off, An extremely emaciated and weak animal.
RULES OBSERVED AT THE TIME OF SLAUGHTER
The animal to be slaughtered should first be fed and watered; it should not be slaughtered when it is hungry and thirsty.
It should not be dragged along to the place of slaughter.
It should be laid on the ground with ease as it is abominable to use undue force.
It should be laid on the ground on its left side facing the Qiblah, so that it may die easily.
The knife should be sharp; it should never be slaughtered with a blunt knife.
If the knife is to be sharpened, it should not be sharpened in front of the animal.
An animal should not be slaughtered in the presence of another.
As soon as the animal has been placed on the ground, one should hurry to slaughter it, undue delay must be avoided.
The animal should not be slaughtered with such force that the head is severed or the knife reaches the spinal cord.
(Hidaya and Shami)
The above mentioned injunctions are not peculiar to sacrificial animals only; they are meant for any animal that is to be slaughtered.
IMPORTANT REGULATIONS
* It is better to slaughter one's own sacrifice with one's own hands. However, if one does not know how to slaughter, then it is permissible to let someone else slaughter it. It is better to be present when the animal is being slaughtered. This applies to women also, who should be in veil while the sacrifice is being made on her behalf.
* Sacrifice is only waajib (necessary) on one's self and not on behalf of any other member of the family. If there is a minor in the family who is rich, even then it is not necessary to sacrifice on his behalf either from his own wealth or from the minor's wealth. If sacrifice is made on behalf of the minor, then the money should not be taken from the minor's wealth. Such a sacrifice will be regarded as optional (nafl).
* Seven people are allowed to share a cow, camel or buffalo for sacrifice on condition that no person's share should be less than 1/7 of the cow, and that everyone's intention must either be for sacrifice or for Aqeeqa. If any one of the shareholder's share is less than 1/7, then no one's sacrifice will be correct, (even those who have been given a full share).
* If an animal is selected for sacrifice, its milk, wool, hair, etc. have to be given as charity to the poor; or if these are sold, it is compulsory that the money obtained be given to the poor.
* If sacrifice is waajib on a person and the days of Nahr (sacrifice) pass by and he has failed to sacrifice the animal, then he should give charity to the value of a sheep or a goat. If he had already bought an animal then the same animal should be given away as charity.
* The meat of the animal shared by partners should be distributed by weight and not by estimation
* Preferably the sacrificial meat should be divided into three parts. One part should be kept for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. One who has a large family may keep all the meat.It is Haraam to sell the sarificial meat.
* The sacrificial meal can also be given to people of other faiths on condition that it is not given as a payment for labour.
* When slaughtering it is not necessary to read the niyyat (intention) and dua aloud. If one has made niyyat in one's heart, then uttering only Bismillah-Allahu-Akbar before slaughtering is correct. However if one knows the dua, then it is better to read it.
A person may eat the meat of every sacrificed animal that is slaughtered, be it a waajib or nafl. It is not permissible for one to eat from a sacrificial animal that is slaughtered as a vow (NAZR), nor a Kaffaarah for a Jinaayat (error/mistake) committed during Hajj, nor is one's children allowed to partake of it. Only the poor and destitute have the right to it.
1. A goat purchased for sacrifice MUST be at least a year old and above, otherwise the sacrifice will not be valid.
2. A cow MUST be 2 years old and above.
3. If a sheep is less than a year old, but it is such a size that it resembles a sheep of one year, then its sacrifice will be valid.
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