After Esha

Main Topic

An Eid al-Adha discourse addressing the spiritual essence of Qurbani (sacrifice), reflecting on the trial of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and Prophet Ismail (A.S.), and warning against modern pitfalls during Eid celebrations.

Key Lessons

• Reflection on the Ummah: Muslims must maintain empathy and make du'a for oppressed believers worldwide while fulfilling civic trusts and agreements locally.
• Wisdom from Qurbani Animals: Just as animals aggressively fight over food unaware of their imminent end, humans frequently fight over dunya despite the certainty of death (mowt).
• Essence of Sacrifice: Qurbani is an act of devotion judged by piety and sincerity rather than physical display or monetary value.

Quranic/Hadith References

• Surah As-Saffat (37:106): "Inna hadha la-huwal balā'ul mubeen" (Indeed, this was a clear trial) regarding Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.).
• Surah At-Tin (95:4): "Laqad khalaqnal insāna fee ahsani taqweem" (We have certainly created man in the best stature).
• Surah Al-Ahzab (33:33): "Wa la tabarrajna tabarrujal jāhiliyyatil 'oolā" (And do not display yourselves as was the display of the former times of ignorance).

Practical Advice

• Embrace the 2 T's of Qurbani: Perform the sacrifice with Taqwa (Allah-consciousness) and Tawadu' (humility).
• Abstain from the 3 T's:
  • Takabbur (Pride): Avoid boasting about the size, price, or speed of slaughtering animals.
  • Tasawir (Photography/Videography): Refrain from filming or photographing the sacrifice, respecting the solemnity of taking a life for Allah's sake.
  • Tabarruj (Immodesty): Avoid free mixing and immodest dress at farms or slaughterhouses. If women wish to witness the Qurbani, perform it at home.
• Maintain correct intention and method for Eid Salah with six additional wajib takbeers.