Qurbani means sacrifice. Every year during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal – a goat, sheep, cow or camel – to reflect the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail, for the sake of Allah (SWT). After the animal has been sacrificed, its meat is then distributed to those most in need. Giving Qurbani is obligatory for every Muslim who is financially able to do so.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was once asked by his Companions: “O Prophet of Allah! What is this qurbani?” He replied, “It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim (A.S).” (Hadith – Ibn Majah)

Allah (subḥānahu wa-taʿālā) says in the Qur’an: “It is neither their flesh nor their blood that reaches Allah; it is your piety that reaches Him.” (Qur’an 22:37) Qurbani has been performed from the time of Ibrahim (A.S) and commemorates also Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, who was replaced by an animal at the time of sacrifice.