What is Qurbani? The Complete Guide
Qurban.us Team
Written by Qurban.us
Learn everything about the Islamic practice of Qurbani — its significance, rules, and how it helps families in need.
Qurbani is the Islamic practice of sacrificing a livestock animal during Eid al-Adha. The word comes from the Arabic 'qurb' meaning closeness or nearness — it is an act of drawing nearer to Allah through sacrifice.
The practice commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to Allah. As Ibrahim was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, establishing the tradition of animal sacrifice that continues to this day.
Qurbani is obligatory (wajib) for every sane adult Muslim who possesses wealth above the nisab threshold. It must be performed during the three days of Eid al-Adha — the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
Today, through organizations like qurban.us, Muslims around the world can fulfill this sacred obligation and ensure the meat reaches families in need across 10+ countries.
Who is Qurbani obligatory upon? According to the Hanafi school, Qurbani is wajib for every sane, adult Muslim who possesses wealth equal to or above the nisab threshold (equivalent to 80.18 grams of gold).
Is it permissible to appoint an agent (wakeel)? Yes, you may appoint another person or organization as your agent (wakeel) to perform the Qurbani on your behalf. Donations made through online platforms function exactly this way.
Types of Qurbani: • Wajib (Obligatory): The mandatory annual Qurbani • Nafilah: Voluntary sacrifice to draw closer to Allah • Shifa (Health): Sacrifice performed seeking healing • Nadhr (Vow): A sacrifice promised as a vow • Aqiqah: Sacrifice performed for a newborn
