The Ideals and Purpose of Qurbani: Insights from the Quran and Hadith

Introduction

Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah, is an essential ritual observed by Muslims worldwide during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, particularly on the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha. This practice holds great significance in Islamic tradition and is deeply rooted in the ideals and purpose outlined in the Quran and Hadith. In this article, we will explore the essence of Qurbani as guided by these sacred sources, shedding light on its ideals and purpose.

The Essence of Qurbani

Qurbani signifies the act of sacrificing an animal with the intention of seeking nearness to Allah and expressing gratitude for His blessings. It is a symbol of devotion, submission, and selflessness, reflecting the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his unwavering obedience to Allah’s command. The ultimate test of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith was his willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (Ishmael), for the sake of Allah. However, Allah, in His infinite mercy, replaced Ismail with a ram, and Prophet Ibrahim’s act of sacrifice became a timeless example of devotion and surrender.

The Quranic Perspective

The Quran, the central religious text of Islam, emphasizes the significance of Qurbani as an act of righteousness and piety. In Surah Al-Hajj (22:37), Allah says,

لَنۡ یَّنَالَ اللّٰهَ لُحُوۡمُهَا وَ لَا دِمَآؤُهَا وَ لٰکِنۡ یَّنَالُهُ التَّقۡوٰی مِنۡکُمۡ ؕ کَذٰلِکَ سَخَّرَهَا لَکُمۡ لِتُکَبِّرُوا اللّٰهَ عَلٰی مَا هَدٰىکُمۡ ؕ وَ بَشِّرِ الۡمُحۡسِنِیۡنَ ﴿۳۷﴾

” Their meat (Animals of Qurbani) will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus, have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good. ”

This verse highlights that the essence of Qurbani lies not in the physical offerings but in the piety and sincerity of the worshipper. It is a means to attain closeness to Allah by demonstrating one’s devotion, gratitude, and willingness to follow His commands.

Additionally, the Quran encourages believers to distribute the meat of the sacrificial animal among the needy and less fortunate. Surah Al-Hajj (22:28) states,

لِّیَشۡهَدُوۡا مَنَافِعَ لَهُمۡ وَ یَذۡکُرُوا اسۡمَ اللّٰهِ فِیۡۤ اَیَّامٍ مَّعۡلُوۡمٰتٍ عَلٰی مَا رَزَقَهُمۡ مِّنۡۢ بَهِیۡمَۃِ الۡاَنۡعَامِ ۚ فَکُلُوۡا مِنۡهَا وَ اَطۡعِمُوا الۡبَآئِسَ الۡفَقِیۡرَ ﴿۫۲۸﴾

” That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. So, eat of them and feed the miserable and poor.” This verse emphasizes the communal aspect of Qurbani, where the act of sharing and providing for those in need becomes an integral part of the overall purpose.

The Teachings of Hadith

Hadith, the recorded sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), further elucidate the ideals and purpose of Qurbani. The Prophet Muhammad (Phub) said, “There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of Qurbani than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Judgment with its horns, hair, and hooves. The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore, sacrifice with an open and happy heart.”

This Hadith highlights that the act of Qurbani holds immense value in the sight of Allah. It symbolizes the believer’s devotion and obedience to the Almighty, and its rewards are promised both in this world and the hereafter.

The Purpose of Qurbani

Qurbani serves multiple purposes that resonate with the core values of Islam:

1. Devotion and Submission: Qurbani is a testament to a believer’s unwavering faith, willingness to submit to Allah’s commands, and dedication to following the example of Prophet Ibrahim.
2. Gratitude and Remembrance: By sacrificing an animal, Muslims express gratitude for Allah’s blessings and remember the great sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim and his family.
3. Selflessness and Charity: The distribution of Qurbani meat among the less fortunate reflects the Islamic principle of caring for the marginalized, promoting social cohesion, and fulfilling the needs of the community.
4. Spiritual Purification: Qurbani provides an opportunity for self-reflection, self-purification, and seeking forgiveness, as individuals aim to cleanse their hearts and draw closer to Allah.

Conclusion

Qurbani holds a deep significance in the lives of Muslims worldwide, as it encapsulates the ideals and purpose prescribed in the Quran and Hadith. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of devotion, submission, gratitude, and selflessness in the path of spiritual growth. By practicing Qurbani, believers honor the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim, strengthen their relationship with Allah, and contribute to the well-being of their communities. May this sacred act continue to inspire Muslims to embrace the virtues it embodies and promote a more compassionate and righteous society.