According to Abrahamic faiths, the tradition of animal sacrifice traces back to the dawn of humanity. In Islam, Qurbani stands as a pivotal ritual with profound importance. Let’s delve deeper into its precise meaning and historical roots to grasp its significance.
What does Qurbani symbolize in Islam?
Qurbani, also known as Udiyah in Arabic, is the act of offering a sacrificial animal to God. This ritual holds significant religious importance for financially capable Muslims as a means of drawing closer to the Almighty. According to Islamic law, Qurbani refers to the sacrifice of a specific animal by a specific person on a designated day. It’s not merely about slaughtering an animal and distributing its meat; rather, it’s about seeking closeness to Allah and gaining His blessings, goodness, and pleasure. Muslims fulfill this practice by sacrificing animals such as goats, camels, sheep, and cows.
In the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only).” (Quran, 108:2)
The origins of animal sacrifice
The earliest recorded instance of animal sacrifice in Islam dates back to the story of Abel, the son of Adam and Eve. In an attempt to resolve their differences, Adam instructed his sons to make offerings to Allah. Abel sacrificed a sheep, while his brother Cain offered crops from his land. According to an influential Muslim historian, a divine sign was expected to indicate acceptance of the sacrifice. The fire descended from the heavens and enveloped Abel’s offering, signifying acceptance. Cain’s offering, however, was rejected. Out of jealousy, Cain later murdered his brother, becoming the first human to commit such an act. Despite being given opportunities for remorse, Cain remained unrepentant and was consequently not forgiven by Allah.
The narrative emphasizes that sincerity and intention are paramount in Qurbani within Islam.
The historical background of Qurbani in Islam: The Sacrifice of Ibrahim
The origins of Qurbani in Islam can be traced back to Prophet Ibrahim, who received a divine command to sacrifice what was most precious to him. Recognizing that his son’s life held utmost value, Ibrahim explained to his son the purpose behind taking him away from their home.
“O my father! Carry out what you have been commanded. If Allah wills, you will find me among the patient.” (Qur’an, 37:102)
Both the son and the father were ready to sacrifice Ismail’s life, but Shaytan attempted to dissuade them. Shaytan tried to convince Ibrahim and Ismail that they were on the brink of committing a grave sin, but they affirmed that if it was Allah’s will, they must submit to it. Shaytan appeared individually before Ibrahim, Ismail, and Hajar (Ibrahim’s wife). Each time, he was repelled by them. It is this stoning that remains commemorated during Hajj.
As Ibrahim poised to sacrifice his son and raised the knife, both father and son remembered Allah and reaffirmed their faith in Him. In the critical moment, just as Ibrahim was about to slay his son, Allah substituted Ismail with a white-horned ram. Ibrahim then sacrificed the ram instead of his son. This act, akin to the stoning of the pillars, is commemorated annually by Muslims during Hajj.
The narrative illustrates the reward and grace bestowed upon Ibrahim’s family due to their submission to Allah. It is believed that the ram sent to Ibrahim was the same one sacrificed by Habil, the son of Adam and Eve. Prophet Muhammad himself hung the ram’s horns in the holy Kaaba, symbolizing the significance of sacrifices in Islamic history. This portrayal by Prophet Muhammad underscores the value of our heritage and the importance of honoring it.
Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakra Eid, commemorates the rich tradition of Qurbani in Islam. Falling on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar, this festival allows animal sacrifice from the morning of the 10th until sunset on the 13th day. The essence lies not in the act of sacrifice itself, but in our sincere submission to Allah. Traditionally, Eid al-Adha is celebrated by offering prayers, sacrificing an animal (goat, sheep, camel, or cow), visiting the mosque, exchanging gifts, and enjoying a communal feast.
