Qurbani Meaning
Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah, is a significant religious practice observed by Muslims worldwide.
It refers to the act of sacrificing an animal during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, specifically on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, which commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Financially capable Muslims are encouraged to perform Qurbani as a symbol of devotion, gratitude, and charity.
The sacrifice is typically carried out by slaughtering livestock such as sheep, goat, cow, or camel.
The meat from the Qurbani animal is then distributed among family, friends, and the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can partake in the joyous celebration and experience the spirit of generosity and unity that defines this important Islamic tradition.
The word Qurbani itself translates as ‘nearness,’ and through it Muslims are able to draw closer to their Lord.
Qurbani of Ibrahim (AS)
The story of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice of his son, Ismail, holds immense significance and serves as a testament to unwavering faith and submission to God’s will.
In this profound tale, Ibrahim, upon receiving a divine command, prepared himself to offer his beloved son as a sacrifice.
With a heart full of devotion and trust, he embarked on this extraordinary test of faith. However, just as Ibrahim was about to fulfill the command, Allah intervened and replaced Ismail with a ram, symbolizing the acceptance of Ibrahim’s unwavering commitment and demonstrating that submission to God’s commands brings forth blessings and mercy.
This story serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of surrendering one’s desires to please the Divine and the profound rewards that come from unyielding trust in God’s wisdom.
Why Give Qurbani?
Qurbani is a means for Muslims to emulate the profound level of devotion to God demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim on Mount Arafat. He prepared to sacrifice his cherished son at that moment, willingly surrendering something irreplaceable.
Through this act of sacrifice, Muslims seek to purify their hearts, strengthen their connection with God, and reaffirm their commitment to the principles of selflessness and compassion.
Qurbani also serves as a reminder of the blessings and mercy bestowed upon Prophet Ibrahim when his act of obedience was accepted and a ram was provided as a substitute for Ismail.
Furthermore, Qurbani is a means of expressing gratitude for the abundance and blessings in one’s life. By giving a portion of their wealth to those in need, Muslims demonstrate solidarity with the less fortunate and emphasize the importance of sharing and caring for others. It fosters a sense of social responsibility, compassion, and unity within the community.
Qurbani 2023
Qurbani is carried out during the three days of Eid al-Adha.
These are the 10th, 11th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
This year, Eid al-Adha is expected to fall on Wednesday, 28th of June, subject to moonsighting.
Qurbani Meat
During Qurbani, livestock like sheep, goats, cows, or camels are commonly slaughtered as a sacrificial offering.
The meat obtained from these animals is known as Qurbani meat.
Traditionally, the animal is divided into three equal parts: one for the person who made the sacrifice, another for their friends and family, and the final portion for the less fortunate.
However, in Canada, Muslims generally donate towards the slaughter of an entire animal which is then distributed to the poor in another country.
Qurbani With HCI
At HCI, we’re bursting with excitement to share our Qurbani projects for 2023. The impact of your generous donations last year reverberated across poverty-stricken pockets of the world. Last year, you helped deliver meat to 91,698 people across three continents.
Together, let’s continue making waves of positive change this year too.
We wholeheartedly encourage you to contribute with a spirit of abundance so that the incredible influence of Qurbani can radiate throughout the globe this Eid ul-Adha, Inshallah.
Let’s make it a celebration of compassion and empowerment like never before!
