Qurbani By Moulana Aslam Sheik

Main Topic

The lecture focuses on preparing for the blessed first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, understanding the spirit of sacrifice (Qurbani) exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (Alayhis Salam), and adhering to the proper etiquettes and rulings of slaughtering.

Key Lessons

• The Spirit of Sacrifice: Qurbani is the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (Alayhis Salam), whose life was defined by total devotion and sacrifice for Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.
• Virtues of the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah: These days are the most beloved to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala for performing Ibadah. Fasting during these days carries immense rewards, and night worship is compared in reward to Laylatul Qadr.
• Fast of Arafah: Fasting on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah expiates the sins of the preceding year and the coming year.
• Mustahab Practice for Qurbani: Those intending to offer a sacrifice are encouraged to refrain from cutting their hair and clipping their nails from the 1st of Dhul Hijjah until their animal is slaughtered, emulating pilgrims in Ihram.
• Etiquettes & Rulings of Slaughtering: One must ensure animals meet the age and health requirements, treat animals with compassion using sharp blades, and avoid un-Islamic behavior such as photography, selfies, or free-mixing at slaughter facilities.

Quranic/Hadith References

• Hadith on the origin of sacrifice: When asked about Qurbani, Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) replied that it is the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (Alayhis Salam).
• Quranic reference to Ibrahim (Alayhis Salam) taking four birds, taming them, slaughtering them, and calling them back by Allah's power.
• Hadith on the virtues of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah: Fasting each day is equivalent to a year's fasting, and standing in prayer at night is equivalent to Laylatul Qadr.
• Hadith on the Fast of Arafah: Expells sins of the past year and the coming year.
• Hadith warning: The person who has the financial means to offer Qurbani but fails to do so should not approach the musalla (place of prayer).

Practical Advice

• Complete personal grooming (cutting nails and hair) before the entrance of 1st Dhul Hijjah.
• Increase recitation of Takbeer (Allahu Akbar), Tahleel (La ilaha illallah), Tasbeeh (SubhanAllah), and Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah).
• Verify that animals meet the proper age criteria (goats at least 1 year, cows 2 years) and beware of fraudulent organizations or sellers.