Eid al-Adha Sacrifice: Rulings? Conditions? When to Slaughter? How to Choose?
Dalia Khirfan
One of the most important religious rituals during Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of animals, a worship that involves slaughtering designated animals as an offering to Allah. In this article, we will explore the meaning of sacrificial offerings, the rewards of sacrificing animals, the timing of sacrifices, criteria for choosing sacrificial animals, conditions for the one offering the sacrifice, and the impact of animal sacrifices on the individual and society. Additionally, we will discuss the religious rulings regarding animal sacrifices during Eid al-Adha.
What is Sacrificial Offering?
A sacrificial offering, refers to the slaughtering of camels, cattle, or sheep by Muslims on the Day of Sacrifice, which is the blessed day of Eid al-Adha and the following three days known as the Days of Tashreeq. Muslims may not perform the sacrifice themselves but can delegate a specialized person to do so in an Islamic way called “Halal”.
Ruling on Animal Sacrifices:
Sacrificial offerings are a recommended act (Sunnah). Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to perform this act every year by sacrificing two sheep in good health conditions, with one being offered on behalf of himself and his family, and the other being offered on behalf of those who believe in Islam and Prophet Muhammad.
This practice was his annual tradition, sacrificing two sheep, and from the sheep category. It is a confirmed Sunnah when there is the ability to do so. A person may offer a sacrifice on behalf of themselves, their family, their spouse, and parents. It is not obligatory but is recommended when the means are available. If a person sacrifices more, it is permissible, and if someone is unable, there is no obligation. It is a confirmed Sunnah with the capacity to do so, and it carries great rewards in both this life and the hereafter.
Drawing near to Allah and sacrificing for His sake are considered among the greatest acts of worship. The act of sacrificing animals, in particular, is one of these noble acts. In the Quran, Allah says, "Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you" (Surah Al-Hajj: 37). This implies that the importance lies not in the meat reaching Allah but in the purity of hearts and sincere intentions to draw closer to Allah.
When is the Sacrifice Performed?
The days designated for sacrificial offerings are four days: Eid al-Adha and the three days that follow, known as the Three Days of Tashreeq (Eid days). The specific time for sacrifice begins immediately after the Eid al-Adha prayer and ends with the sunset of the third day of Tashreeq. It is not valid to slaughter any animal intended for sacrifice after this period.
Criteria for Choosing Sacrificial Animals:
Regarding the criteria for selecting sacrificial animals, it is crucial that the animals offered as sacrifices are healthy and free from apparent defects, such as disabilities or severe illnesses. It is preferable for sacrificial animals to belong to well-known and reputable species like cows, sheep, and goats. Additionally, sacrificial animals are advised to be in the best physical and mental condition to ensure quality and excellence in worship.
· The following conditions must be met for the sacrifice to be valid:
1. Legal Ownership: The one offering the sacrifice must own it legally, and ownership through theft, forbidden wealth, or an invalid contract is not permissible.
2. Intention (Niyyah): The intention distinguishes the sacrificial offering for the sake of closeness to Allah from slaughtering animals for other purposes.
3. Free from Defects: The sacrificial animal must be free from defects and diseases. It should not be blind, lame, emaciated, unable to walk, or missing teeth.
4. Age of the Animal: The minimum age for sacrificial animals is one year if they are sheep, with an exception for sheep aged between 6 - 12 months that are strong, fat, and healthy enough to appear as if they are one year old.
Conditions for the One Offering the Sacrifice:
The agreed-upon conditions for the one offering the sacrifice are as follows:
- Islam: Non-Muslims are not obligated to offer sacrifices.
- Sanity: Muslims who are not sane are not obligated to offer sacrifices.
- Freedom: Muslim slaves who are sane are not obligated to offer sacrifices.
- Financial Capability: Scholars differ on defining the criteria for financial capability. The Maliki School believes it is the price of the sacrifice, provided the Muslim does not need it. The Hanbali School holds that the capable person is one who can obtain the price of the sacrifice, even if borrowed, as long as they are aware of their ability to repay the debt.
It is worth noting that there are various debated conditions for the one offering the sacrifice.
• Puberty (Bulugh): The Shafi'i School considers puberty a condition for the one offering the sacrifice, while the Maliki School does not consider it a condition.
• Not Being in a State of Hajj (Pilgrimage): The Maliki School stipulates that the one offering the sacrifice should not be in a state of Hajj to ease the burden on the pilgrim. However, other schools of thought do not require this condition.
Is Delegating Someone or a Specialized Entity Permissible for Slaughtering the Sacrifice?
Delegating the act of slaughter is permissible for a Muslim according to all schools of thought except the Maliki School, which prohibits non-Muslims from performing the sacrifice. It is forbidden to compensate the one performing the slaughter by giving them a portion of the sacrifice's meat or skin. Still, it is permissible to offer a portion of the sacrifice as a gift after paying the agreed-upon fee for their service.
In cases where one cannot perform the sacrifice themselves, or due to busyness or lack of expertise, delegation for sacrificing is a common practice. This delegation includes buying the sacrificial animal, slaughtering it, and distributing its meat.
Many Muslims also opt to delegate a reliable entity for sacrifices, especially if they reside in a non-Muslim country.
Impact of Sacrificing on the Individual and Society:
Regarding the impact of sacrificial offerings on the individual and society, it is significant and multi-faceted. On an individual level, the act of sacrificing enhances religious awareness and connection with Allah, reminding Muslims of Prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice and his test of dedication and obedience to Allah.
This practice also strengthens familial and social bonds, as individuals participate in preparing and distributing sacrifices to relatives, neighbors, and those in need, fostering a spirit of mutual support and cooperation in the community.
On a societal level, the process of sacrificing contributes to improving living conditions for the poor and needy. Distributing meat and other products from sacrifices is considered a social obligation and is generally well received by the community. While Muslims express their closeness to Allah, the poor and needy benefit from these essential food items, contributing to meeting their basic needs.
In summary, the blessed Eid al-Adha and the sacrificial process provide an opportunity for Muslims to connect with Allah and sacrifice for His sake. This worship enhances individual religious and spiritual values and promotes social interaction and solidarity within the community.
It also provides an opportunity for the poor and needy to meet their nutritional needs. It is essential to emphasize the importance of respecting religious norms and guidelines related to sacrificing animals, ensuring that it is done in a good manner and in accordance with Islamic law. The distribution of sacrifices should be done with good intentions, balancing the rights of families with the rights of the poor and needy while maintaining justice and fairness in distribution.