Today marks one of the most significant celebrations in Islam, it’s Eid al-Adha day. Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, the day commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. But God intervened and provided a ram in his place.
To honour this act of faith, Muslims around the world observe the day by sacrificing a ram or other livestock such as cattle, or camels.
Beyond the festive atmosphere and the sharing of meat, it’s important to remember that this sacred ritual comes with specific guidelines to ensure it is carried out correctly and respectfully.
So, here are the key dos and don’ts to keep in mind during the Eid al-Adha sacrifice.
DOS:
- Choose a healthy and eligible animal
Ensure that the ram or any livestock selected for sacrifice is healthy, without any defects, and has reached the appropriate age.
According to hadith, the ram should be at least one year old. However, a lamb that is six months old may be accepted if it is healthy and well-fed.
Avoid animals with broken horns, missing teeth, or any visible signs of illness.
- Use a sharp knife
The knife used for the sacrifice should be very sharp to allow for a quick and humane cut. It must also be clean to avoid contamination and maintain hygiene.
Before the slaughter, make sure your intention is clear, the act should be for the sake of Allah alone. The animal must be slaughtered while reciting “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
- Share the meat generously
According to Islamic teachings, the meat from the sacrifice should be divided into three parts. One third for your household, one third to be shared with friends and relatives as gifts, and one third to be given to those in need.
Giving to the less privileged is not just encouraged, it is a key part of the spirit of Eid al-Adha.
DON’TS:
- Don’t mistreat the animal before or during slaughter
The animal chosen for sacrifice should be treated with compassion and not subjected to any form of abuse or stress before or during slaughter.
Dragging, hitting, using the animal for fights, or causing unnecessary fear goes against the spirit of Eid al-Adha.
It is also important to avoid slaughtering an animal in the presence of another. The process should be done calmly, with mercy and care, in line with Islamic teachings.
- Don’t delay the sacrifice unnecessarily
The sacrifice should be done at the ideal time should is right after the Eid prayer on Eld day and within the next two days.
In the book of Sahih Bukhari, it was narrated that Prophet Muhammad said “Whoever slaughtered the sacrifice before the prayer, he just slaughtered it for himself, and whoever slaughtered it after the prayer, he slaughtered it at the right time and followed the tradition of the Muslims.”
So, ensure to follow the correct timeframe.
- Don’t sell any part of the animal for profit
Once an animal has been dedicated for sacrifice, its meat, skin, or any part should not be sold for profit, except in exchange for one that is better.
According to Islamic rulings, the sacrifice is an act of worship and must be done with sincerity, not for financial gain.
It is also not allowed to give any part of the animal to the butcher as payment. Everything should be shared or used in line with the intention of worship and generosity that Eid al-Adha represents.
Remember, it’s not just a celebration, it is an act of worship that should be carried out with intention, sincerity, and respect.
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