Understanding the Ud’hiyyah: The ‘Eid Sacrifice
The Ud’hiyyah, or the ‘Eid sacrifice, is a highly emphasized Sunnah in Islam, deeply rooted in our faith. This practice commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command, a tradition carried forward by Prophet Muhammad (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam). Both men and women are encouraged to perform the Ud’hiyyah, either for themselves or on behalf of their households. The Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) exemplified this by sacrificing two horned rams each year—one for himself and his family and the other for those in his ummah who worship Allah alone but could not afford to sacrifice.
The Requirements and Timing of the Sacrifice
The minimum requirement for Ud’hiyyah is the sacrifice of one goat, sheep, or ram, sufficient for an individual and their family. During the Prophet’s time, a man would sacrifice one sheep for his household, sharing the meat among them and with others. In larger households, it is permissible for up to seven families to share in the sacrifice of a cow or camel. The sacrifice should be performed on the day of Nahr (the first day of ‘Eid) or any of the days of Tashreeq (the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah), but it must take place after the ‘Eid prayer.
Selecting the Right Animal
The animal chosen for sacrifice should be healthy, handsome, and free from defects. The Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) emphasized the importance of selecting the best animal one can afford, symbolizing our dedication to giving our best to Allah. The Sunnah encourages eating from the sacrificed meat, sharing it with relatives and neighbors, and giving a portion to the needy. This act of charity and community spirit is a core part of the ‘Eid celebrations.
The Significance of Local Sacrifice
Performing the sacrifice locally ensures that your household actively participates in this profound act of worship. It allows your family, especially the younger generation, to witness and understand the significance of this tradition. By performing the Ud’hiyyah at home, you maintain the rich heritage of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam), fostering a deeper connection to the ritual. This practice also strengthens the bond within your community, as sharing and distributing meat locally enhances community spirit and support.
The Importance of International Donations
While local sacrifice is crucial, donating Qurbani to international causes is equally important. Many of our brothers and sisters in countries like Palestine, Gaza, Syria, Yemen, and Pakistan face extreme hardship and may not have the means to perform Ud’hiyyah themselves. By donating internationally, you extend the blessings of your sacrifice to those who are most in need. This act of generosity not only helps alleviate their suffering but also ensures that they can partake in the joy and blessings of ‘Eid.
Are you ready to donate your Qurbani now? Humaniti is performing Qurbani in 12 countries on YOUR behalf this Dhul Hijjah 2025.
In 2024, we distributed over 2,247 shares of Qurbani, which benefited thousands of families, Alhamdulillah!
Conclusion
Embrace the Ud’hiyyah with gratitude and sincerity, understanding its profound significance. By performing the sacrifice locally and donating Qurbani to those in need in other parts of the world, you uphold a beautiful Sunnah, strengthen your family’s faith, and contribute to the well-being of both your local community and the global ummah. May Allah accept our sacrifices and shower us with His blessings.