As the bright lights of Eid al-Adha approach, Muslims around the world prepare for a celebration filled with joy, family, and tradition. Central to this celebration is the practice of Qurbani, or the ritual sacrifice of an animal. However, a common question arises each year: Is Qurbani fard (obligatory) in Sunni Islam? Let’s dive into the fun and informative world of Islamic jurisprudence to find out!
What is Qurbani? Qurbani, derived from the Arabic word “qaraba,” meaning “to come close,” is an act of sacrifice performed by Muslims during Eid al-Adha. This ritual commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma’il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to Allah. As the story goes, Allah, pleased with Ibrahim’s devotion, replaced Isma’il with a ram, sparing his son and blessing the act of sacrifice.
The Importance of Qurbani: Qurbani is not just about the physical act of sacrificing an animal; it is a profound expression of faith and obedience. It symbolizes selflessness, devotion, and gratitude. The meat from the sacrifice is distributed in three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and neighbors, and one-third for those in need, ensuring that the spirit of giving and community is upheld.
Is Qurbani Fard (Obligatory) in Sunni Islam? To determine whether Qurbani is fard, we need to delve into the rich and nuanced field of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence. Sunni Islam, the largest branch of Islam, is divided into four major schools of thought: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali. Each school has its interpretations and rulings based on the Quran, Hadith (prophetic traditions), and scholarly consensus.
Hanafi School: The Hanafi school, founded by Imam Abu Hanifa, holds that Qurbani is wajib (necessary) for every adult Muslim who possesses the nisab (minimum amount of wealth required to be eligible to pay Zakat). This means that if you meet the financial criteria, performing Qurbani is necessary and not merely recommended.
Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali Schools: The other three Sunni schools—Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali—consider Qurbani to be a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu’akkadah). This means that while it is a highly recommended act of worship, it is not obligatory. These schools emphasize the strong prophetic tradition encouraging Muslims to perform Qurbani, but they stop short of deeming it compulsory.
The Prophetic Tradition: A well-known hadith reported by Anas ibn Malik captures the significance of Qurbani: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) sacrificed two rams with his own hands, saying ‘Bismillah’ and ‘Allahu Akbar’ (In the name of Allah, and Allah is the Greatest).” This act of the Prophet is widely regarded as an important sunnah, reinforcing the significance of Qurbani in Islamic practice.
Fun Fact – The Eid Spirit: Did you know that Eid al-Adha is also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”? During this time, Muslims around the world gather in mosques for special prayers, exchange gifts, and share festive meals. It’s a time of joy, unity, and reflection on the profound legacy of faith and sacrifice.
Balancing the Scales: While there is a consensus among Sunni scholars on the importance of Qurbani, the difference lies in its obligatory nature. For Hanafi followers, it’s a wajib act for those who can afford it, ensuring they do not miss out on this blessed ritual. For Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali followers, it remains a highly encouraged sunnah, allowing for some flexibility while still honoring the tradition.
Whether Qurbani is fard or not, the essence of this beautiful practice transcends legal classifications. It embodies a deep spiritual connection, a sense of community, and the timeless values of generosity and compassion. So, as Eid al-Adha draws near, let’s embrace the spirit of Qurbani with open hearts, knowing that whether wajib or sunnah, it’s a cherished tradition that brings us closer to our faith and to each other.
Eid Mubarak!