Is the Animal Sacrifice Obligatory for Men and Women? Complete Islamic Rules

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The Complete Islamic Guide to Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice)

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Rules · Eligibility · Method · Meat Distribution · Women's FAQs

Is Qurbani Obligatory for Men and Women — Complete Islamic Rules

For many households, the days before Eid ul-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty — excitement about the upcoming celebration, and uncertainty about whether the sacrifice is truly required this year, who exactly must offer it, and how the meat should later be shared. This guide was written to settle that uncertainty in one place. Every ruling, every practical detail, and every clarification here is drawn from classical Islamic legal scholarship, and nothing has been left out or shortened — from the basic conditions of obligation right down to the twenty-two parts of the animal that a lawfully slaughtered animal still contains but which scholars instruct should not be eaten.

Why Is Sending Blessings Upon the Prophet ﷺ So Important?

The Master of Madinah, the Comfort of Hearts, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "O people! On the Day of Judgement, those who will be closest to me and will be admitted to Paradise most quickly are those who sent the most blessings upon me while in this world."

— Al-Firdaws bi-Ma'thur al-Khitab, Vol. 1, p. 277, Hadith 817

The Story of the Dappled Horse and the Reward of Qurbani

Sayyiduna (our respected master) Ahmad ibn al-Haqq (may Allah shower him with mercy) narrates: My companion had a habit of performing Qurbani of a cow every year at Eid. After his passing, I saw him in a dream riding a dappled white horse surrounded by many other horses. I asked: "O my brother! What did Allah do with you?" He replied: "Allah forgave me." I asked: "Why?" He answered: "One day I gave a poor man one dirham (silver coin) in charity, and Allah granted me forgiveness due to the sincerity of that act."

He then said: "These are all my Qurbanis which I offered at Eid, and I am riding upon the first of them." I asked: "Where are you going?" He said: "To Paradise."

The Prophet ﷺ said: "For every hair of the Qurbani animal, the one who performs it will receive one good deed."

— Tirmidhi, Vol. 3, p. 162, Hadith 1498

The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever has the means but does not perform Qurbani — let them not come near our place of prayer."

— Ibn Majah, Vol. 3, p. 529, Hadith 3123

The Prophet ﷺ said to Sayyidah (our respected lady) Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her): "O Fatimah! Stand by your Qurbani animal, for the very first drop of its blood that falls on the ground will cause all your past sins to be forgiven."

— Al-Sunan al-Kubra li-l-Bayhaqi, Vol. 9, p. 476, Hadith 19161

Is Qurbani Obligatory? Will It Still Be Obligatory if One Must Borrow?

According to the Islamic scholarly tradition, Qurbani is obligatory upon every Muslim who is:

• An adult (one who has reached the age of maturity)
• Mentally sound
• A resident (not a traveller)
• In possession of wealth equal to the prescribed minimum threshold, beyond their essential needs and outstanding debts

Important ruling: If someone is wealthy enough to perform Qurbani but lacks cash at that moment, they must still perform it — by selling something, borrowing money, or arranging funds. A person who neglects Qurbani without a valid excuse falls into grave sin. The scholars of Islamic jurisprudence write: "If someone is obligated to perform Qurbani but has no money and no way to borrow, they should sell something to make it possible."

What Makes Qurbani the Most Beloved Deed on Eid ul-Adha?

The Owner of all worlds, the Master and Sustainer, has declared that no good deed a person does during Eid ul-Adha is more beloved to Allah than the blood of Qurbani. The animal's blood reaches Allah before it even falls to the ground. So perform Qurbani with a joyful heart.

"There is no deed more beloved to Allah on the days of Eid ul-Adha than shedding the blood of the sacrificial animal. It will come on the Day of Judgement with its horns, hooves, and hair. And the blood reaches Allah before it even falls to the ground. So perform Qurbani with a willing and joyful heart."

— Tirmidhi, Vol. 3, p. 162, Hadith 1498 | Al-Sunan al-Kubra li-l-Bayhaqi, Vol. 9, Mira'at Vol. 2, p. 370

Will the Qurbani Animal Carry Its Owner Across the Bridge on the Day of Judgement?

The Master of Madinah, the Owner of the universe, has declared: A person who performs Qurbani — for every hair of the animal, one good deed is written in their account. Furthermore, on the Day of Judgement, the Qurbani animal will be presented as a mount for its owner. It will come with its horns, hooves, and hair fully intact. The animal itself will carry its owner across the Bridge on the Day of Judgement. This is the immense spiritual reward of Qurbani.

The Prophet ﷺ said: "Perform Qurbani with a joyful heart — for every hair of the animal, one good deed is written. Its blood reaches Allah before it falls to the ground. The animal will come on the Day of Judgement with its horns and hooves, and it will be a mount for its owner across the Bridge."

— Mira'at al-Manajih, Vol. 2, p. 370 | Tirmidhi, Vol. 3, p. 162

The great scholar Hazrat Shaykh Abdul Haqq Muhaddith Dehlawi (may Allah have mercy on him) states: "Qurbani is a mount for its owner. Through it, a person will easily cross the Bridge, and every limb of the animal (every joint of the Qurbani animal) will serve as a shield for its owner from the fire of Hell."

Important reminder: Some people, due to financial constraints, avoid Qurbani and consider its expense a burden. The scholars have warned: "A person who neglects Qurbani when it is obligatory upon them — this is among the signs of loss." So perform Qurbani with full joy, for it carries immense reward both in this world and the Hereafter.

What Is the Ruling on Qurbani for a Person Who Cannot Afford It?

The well-known scholar Mufti (Islamic legal scholar) Ahmad Yar Khan (may Allah have mercy on him) states: "A person who cannot afford Qurbani — rather, someone who cannot even afford to attend the Eid gathering — should try, if possible, to at least arrange Qurbani at some point after Eid ul-Adha."

Scholarly ruling: If a genuinely poor person cannot perform Qurbani during the days of Eid (10th, 11th, 12th of the month of Pilgrimage), then after these days have passed, if they are ever able to, they may still perform it as a voluntary act of worship and will receive the reward of Qurbani, by the will of Allah.

(Mira'at al-Manajih, Vol. 2, p. 370)

The important thing is the intention and sincerity. If a poor person has a genuine desire in their heart to perform Qurbani but cannot afford it, Allah knows their intention and they will not be deprived of reward. As the Prophet ﷺ said: "Actions are judged by intentions."

Must Those Performing Qurbani Refrain From Cutting Hair and Nails?

The well-known scholar Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan (may Allah have mercy on him), explains a prophetic narration stating: When the first ten days of the month of Pilgrimage begin, whoever intends to offer Qurbani must not cut their hair or nails until the slaughter is done. This ruling applies to the person performing the Qurbani, not to the rest of the household. The scholars clarify:

• Not cutting hair and nails is recommended, not obligatory
• It is not a sin to cut them, but it is better to refrain
• If someone has already refrained for 31 days due to a valid excuse, and the animal has not been slaughtered, the action remains recommended — it cannot be used as an excuse to sin
• A person who deliberately refrained, then cut their hair after 45 days without a reason, commits an unnecessary act — but the recommended status does not permit sin
• Important: Keeping the hair and nails for more than 40 days is itself a sin — regardless of Qurbani. Keeping body hair beyond 40 days is among the greater sins. Therefore if the 40-day limit is approaching and the Qurbani has not yet been performed, one should cut the hair and nails, as keeping them beyond 40 days is a sin — and a recommended act cannot be used to justify committing a sin.
• This ruling applies from the 1st of the month of Pilgrimage until the Qurbani is done. If someone cuts their hair due to a valid excuse during this period, it is not sinful. But deliberately cutting without reason, while intending Qurbani, loses the reward of refraining.

Summary ruling (Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan): Refraining from cutting hair and nails from the 1st of the month of Pilgrimage is recommended. It is better to refrain, but if 40 days have passed (counted from the last time hair/nails were cut), then cutting becomes necessary to avoid sin. The recommended act of refraining does not override the obligation to avoid sin.
(Mula'kkhas az Fatawa Razawiyya, Vol. 20, pp. 353–354)

Learn about other important acts of worship for women during the month of Pilgrimage here.

How Much Wealth Makes Qurbani Obligatory?

Every adult Muslim man or woman who is a resident and owns the prescribed minimum wealth threshold is obligated to perform Qurbani. The threshold is defined as:

The prescribed minimum threshold means: Having silver, gold, cash, or goods beyond one's essential life needs and beyond any debts owed to Allah or to people — with a value equal to or exceeding the minimum threshold. If such wealth is available even for a single moment during the days of Qurbani (dawn of the 10th to sunset of the 12th of the month of Pilgrimage), Qurbani becomes obligatory.

What Is Considered "Essential Needs"?

Essential needs refers to those things without which life becomes genuinely difficult — such as one's home, clothing, books related to one's work or religion, household items, riding animals or vehicles, and tools of trade. These are excluded from the wealth calculation. Items such as expensive jewelry, extra vehicles, or rental properties that generate income beyond living expenses are generally counted toward the minimum threshold.

When Exactly Does Qurbani Become Obligatory?

According to Imam (leading Islamic scholar) Muhammad Ali al-Azmi (may Allah have mercy on him), one must not rush to perform Qurbani in the first days if the conditions were not met at that time. If a person lacked wealth at the beginning (dawn of the 10th of the month of Pilgrimage) but acquired it before the final time (before sunset of the 12th), Qurbani is obligatory upon them. Conversely, if the conditions were met at the beginning but then lost before the animal was slaughtered, Qurbani is no longer obligatory.

12 Important Reminders About the Obligation of Qurbani

1. Some families offer only one goat for the entire household, though several members each reach the minimum wealth threshold independently. In this case, each person's Qurbani is a separate obligation — one goat from one share cannot suffice for multiple individuals who are each obligated.
2. A cow or camel can accommodate up to seven shares. Seven people can jointly participate in the Qurbani of one cow or camel.
3. A minor (under the age of maturity) is not obligated, though it is better if their guardian performs one on their behalf. If a guardian does perform one without the minor's permission, it still counts. If the minor reaches maturity and the guardian has not performed one for them, they are responsible from their side.
4. At the time of Qurbani, it is obligatory to have no other alternative. Qurbani cannot be replaced by paying the equivalent in cash or giving the price of the animal in charity — that would not suffice as a substitute.
5. The minimum age of animals: Goat or sheep — one year. Cow — two years. Camel — five years. Younger animals are not permissible, though if a sheep or goat is so large it appears one year old, it may be acceptable. If a male sheep or goat under six months is presented and does not appear as large as a full-year-old, its Qurbani is not valid.
6. The animal must be free from serious defects. A minor defect does not disqualify it, but a major one does — for example, if an animal is visibly lame to a significant degree.
7. Animals that were not valid at the time of purchase but became defective afterward: if the defect arose at the owner's hands, it is still acceptable; if caused by others, it remains valid.
8. During the time of Qurbani, the best of one's cattle is most deserving of sacrifice. It is recommended that those in affluent areas offer something beyond the minimum.
9. An animal that was allocated for Qurbani but then gave birth: the Qurbani is still valid, and the offspring may be used or given away in charity.
10. If the Qurbani animal died before slaughter at the owner's doing, they must replace it; if it died without their involvement, they are not obligated.
11. The animal should be slaughtered in front of the Qurbani giver if possible, as this is from the Prophetic practice and contains great reward.
12. If two people each slaughtered on behalf of the other by prior agreement, and each intended the other's name during slaughter, then neither slaughter is valid — since each person must intend their own name.

Which Animal Defects Make Qurbani Invalid in Islamic Law?

1. An animal that is noticeably blind — one whose blindness is evident. Not one whose eyes are simply weak.
2. An animal that is visibly lame — one that cannot walk on its own to the slaughter place on its feet.
3. An animal that is extremely sick — its sickness is evident to all.
4. An animal so thin that its bones have no marrow remaining.
5. An animal with a missing ear from birth.
6. An animal whose tail, ear, or a third or more of any limb has been cut off.
7. An animal with a crooked, broken, or diseased horn — if only the visible outer part of the horn is affected, the Qurbani remains valid. But if more than a third is broken or the entire horn is gone, the Qurbani is invalid.
8. An animal born without natural horns (i.e., the absence of horns is a birth condition) — its Qurbani is valid, and if it had horns that broke off completely and healed, it is also valid.
9. If at the time of slaughter the animal falls and sustains an injury that causes a defect — the Qurbani is still valid, as the defect occurred at the time of slaughter.
10. It is better to slaughter with one's own hands. If someone else slaughters, it is still valid, but it is preferred that the owner be present.
11. The Qurbani animal's young: if it was born before slaughter, the young one may also be slaughtered and its meat eaten (as it belongs to the deceased mother's offspring).
12. If two people slaughter each other's animal simultaneously, placing their hands on each other's animal — it is obligatory to recite Bismillah (In the name of Allah) on both. If one forgot and assumed the other would recite, both animals are unlawful.

What Is the Correct Method of Performing Qurbani?

Qurbani Rules for Men and Women — Complete Islamic Guide with Method and FAQs

The recommended method, as per the Prophetic tradition, is that the one performing the slaughter:

• Faces the animal and the slaughterer toward the direction of prayer (toward Makkah)
• Lays the animal on its right side
• Places their right foot gently on the animal's neck
• Holds the knife near the neck (right side of the throat)
• Recites: Bismillahi Allahu Akbar
• Slaughters swiftly and firmly
• After slaughter, recites the supplication of acceptance

What Is the Supplication Before Slaughter?

إِنِّي وَجَّهْتُ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي فَطَرَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ حَنِيفًا وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ ۞ إِنَّ صَلَاتِي وَنُسُكِي وَمَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِي لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ ۞ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَبِذَٰلِكَ أُمِرْتُ وَأَنَا مِنَ الْمُسْلِمِينَ

"I have turned my face toward the One who created the heavens and the earth, being purely devoted, and I am not among those who associate partners with Allah. Indeed my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and my dying are all for Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. He has no partner, and this is what I have been commanded, and I am among those who submit to Him. O Allah, this is from You and for You. O Allah, accept this from me, just as You accepted from Your beloved friend Ibrahim and Your beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him."

— Bahare Shariat, Vol. 3, p. 352 | Surah Al-An'am 6:79, 162-163

How Does Islam Command Us to Show Mercy Toward the Sacrificial Animal?

Just as Islam teaches compassion in all acts of worship, it extends that compassion even to animals at the time of slaughter. The Prophet ﷺ commanded excellence in all things, including slaughter:

"Allah has made excellence obligatory in all things. When you slaughter, slaughter well: sharpen your blade and put the animal at ease."

— Sahih Muslim, p. 1080, Hadith 1955

• Lay the animal on the ground gently near the slaughter place before slaughtering it
• Do not drag the animal by one leg in front of other animals
• Do not sharpen the blade in front of the animal
• Do not carry the blade openly in front of the animal
• Do not allow spectators to press closely around the animal in a way that causes distress
• After slaughter, wait until the soul fully departs before skinning
• One who causes unnecessary suffering to an animal during slaughter will be held accountable on the Day of Judgement
• Slaughter with a sharp blade — a dull blade prolongs the animal's pain and is impermissible

A Goat Is an Animal of Paradise

Slaughter the goat with dignity, for it is an animal of Paradise.

— Al-Firdaws bi-Ma'thur al-Khitab, Vol. 1, p. 69, Hadith 201

Do Not Slaughter an Animal While Another Watches

Before slaughtering, lay the animal with its face toward the direction of prayer. Do not slaughter one animal in the direct view of another, as this causes them extreme distress. The Prophet ﷺ commanded that the animal be laid gently on the ground and not caused unnecessary pain. The ruling is clear: it is forbidden to cause suffering to an animal, and the one who causes an animal unnecessary pain will be accountable.

How Many Veins Must Be Cut During Slaughter for the Animal to Be Lawful?

There are two veins on each side of the neck known as the jugular veins. The minimum requirement for the slaughter to be valid is to cut at least three of the four main veins/channels of the throat. The four are: the two jugular veins, the windpipe (trachea), and the food pipe (oesophagus). If at least three are fully severed, the animal is lawful. If only two are cut fully and the remaining two are only partially severed, the animal is also lawful — as long as in each individual cut, at least half of that channel is severed and the remaining half is then also severed before the animal dies.

What Is the Proper Etiquette for Observing the Slaughter?

It is best to remain present at one's own Qurbani and perform the slaughter oneself — this is the Prophetic practice and carries immense reward. However, if someone else is performing the slaughter, one should stand nearby. In Islamic gatherings, it is permissible to have family members present, including women, provided proper Islamic boundaries are observed — no unlawful mixing, no entertainment atmosphere.

• The intention should be pure: this is worship, not a spectacle or entertainment
• Recite blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ and remain in remembrance of Allah while watching
• Do not allow children to clap, laugh loudly, or treat the slaughter as a game
• Do not gather crowds unnecessarily around the animal — this causes it distress
• Do not shout or make loud noise near the animal at the time of slaughter
• If someone is performing the slaughter at another location on your behalf, it is still from the Prophetic practice to be present wherever possible
• Standing near one's Qurbani is spiritually beneficial — one is witness to an act of worship and the scene of blood being shed for Allah's pleasure

Important note: Some people gather around the slaughter place merely for entertainment — laughing, joking, taking photos. This is a sign of heedlessness. The person performing Qurbani should be in a state of remembrance of Allah. Consider: if you were performing Qurbani somewhere and people were laughing and making it entertainment, how would you feel? So maintain dignity and solemnity at the time of Qurbani.

Why Must the Qurbani Animal Not Be Slaughtered While Hungry or Thirsty?

The chief exponent of Islamic Law, Mufti Muhammad Ali Azmi (may Allah have mercy on him) states: Before performing Qurbani, feed the animal and give it water — do not slaughter it while it is hungry or thirsty. Then sharpen the knife in front of one animal, and slaughter another animal in front of it — this is causing unnecessary suffering.

A remarkable and interesting incident narrated by the great scholar Hazrat Na'eem ibn Abu Salama (may Allah have mercy on him): Once, in a famous market, I sharpened the knife for slaughtering a goat. The goat saw the knife and ran away, hiding behind Hazrat Na'eem. Hazrat Na'eem said: "Why did I sharpen the knife in front of it? I have made a firm resolve that I will never slaughter any animal with my own hands."

— Hayat al-Hayawan, Vol. 2, p. 61

• Before Qurbani, feed the animal grass, water, and fodder
• Do not sharpen the knife in front of the animal — this causes it fear and distress
• Do not drag the animal roughly to the slaughter place
• Do not slaughter one animal in the sight of another — this causes extreme distress
• After feeding, lead it gently to the slaughter spot with care
• These acts of kindness toward the animal are themselves acts of worship

Do Not Drag the Animal by Its Leg — It Is Cruelty

Sayyiduna Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) once saw a man who was dragging a goat by its leg to slaughter it. He reprimanded him and said: "Lead it gently toward its death — in a dignified and kind manner."

"Lead the animal gently toward its death."

— Musannaf Abd al-Razzaq, Vol. 4, p. 376, Hadith 8636

• Do not drag the animal by its leg or rope — lead it gently
• Do not pull it roughly or cause it to stumble and fall
• Walk it slowly and with care to the place of slaughter
• Do not frighten it by shouting or sudden movements
• This gentle treatment is part of the Prophetic practice and earns reward

When Mercy on a Fly Caused Forgiveness

A person once saw in a dream that they were given forgiveness. When asked the reason, they replied: "A fly landed on my pen, and I allowed it to drink ink from my pen until it was satisfied. Allah had mercy on me because of the mercy I showed to that fly."

— Lata'if al-Minan wal-Akhlaq li-l-Sha'rani, p. 300

How to Properly Kill a Fly?

Killing a fly is permissible whenever it causes harm or spreads disease. However, there is a proper and improper way:

• The easiest and most humane method is to clap your hands swiftly together — this kills the fly instantly without prolonged suffering
• A fly is very fragile and weak — a single firm strike is enough
• Do not torture the fly by pulling its wings or legs — this is needless cruelty
• Do not burn a fly as a method of killing — this is not permissible
• Children often try to catch flies with their small hands and fail — do not scold them harshly for this, but teach them the proper method gently
• Using a fly swatter or clapping is the recommended method — quick and effective

Note: Islam teaches mercy toward all living creatures. Even in killing animals that are permissible to kill (like harmful insects), we are taught to do so swiftly and without unnecessary cruelty. This is part of the broader Islamic principle of excellence and compassion in all actions.

Can a Share of Qurbani Also Count as a Birth Sacrifice for a Newborn?

The Qurbani of a cow or camel can include one share allocated for the birth sacrifice (the sacrifice at the birth of a child). This is valid according to the scholars.

Detailed ruling: In a cow or camel with seven shares, one or more shares can be allocated for the birth sacrifice while the remaining shares count for Qurbani. This is permissible provided each share has a valid intention behind it. A boy's birth sacrifice requires two shares and a girl's birth sacrifice requires one share. If someone combines the birth sacrifice and Qurbani in one animal, both are valid.

The meat of the birth sacrifice is distributed the same way as Qurbani — one portion for the family, one for relatives, and one for the poor. It is also permissible to cook and invite people to eat.
(Durr al-Mukhtar, Vol. 9, p. 540)

How Should Qurbani Meat Be Distributed According to Islamic Law?

Qurbani meat can be kept by the owner themselves, shared with others, or given to the poor. The best practice is:

Three equal portions: One portion for the family, one portion for relatives and friends, and one portion for the poor and needy. It is permissible to keep all of it for personal consumption, but it is strongly recommended to distribute at least one-third to the poor. (Ala Hazrat, Imam Ahmad Raza Khan, Fatawa Razawiyya, Vol. 20, p. 253)

Is It Necessary to Weigh the Meat When Distributing?

If the Qurbani is a jointly-owned cow, it is necessary to weigh the portions when distributing — not to estimate by eye. Simply putting a portion in a bag and handing it over does not suffice. The shares must be properly weighed. If someone intends to keep their share for themselves, they do not need to weigh it, but if others are involved, weighing is required.

Two Methods for Distributing Among Shares

1. After the Qurbani of a cow: All portions of the cow — from every share — can be distributed by weight, and each shareholder takes their portion. Everything is included: the skin, the head, the feet, the liver, the kidneys, and so on. No portion needs to be set aside separately.
2. The easier method: After the cow is slaughtered, each shareholder's meat is placed in a separate pile based on their share, and they keep whatever is in their pile. There is no need to formally weigh in this case.

What Is the Ruling on Qurbani Performed From a Deceased Person's Will?

If a deceased person left a will to perform Qurbani on their behalf, the Qurbani is done and all its meat — including the portion that would normally go to the family — must be given entirely to the poor and the needy. The family may not eat from it, and it must not be given to wealthy individuals. This is obligatory.

Important: When Qurbani is performed on behalf of a deceased person as per their will, none of the meat may be kept by the family performing it. It is obligatory to distribute all of it to the poor. Keeping any portion for oneself or giving it to wealthy people would be sinful.
(Ma'khuz az Bahare Shariat, Vol. 3, p. 345)

Commonly Asked Questions & Scholarly Answers

Using Pooled Donations to Purchase a Sacrificial Animal

Q: Is it permissible to collect money from a religious or welfare organization and use it to purchase an animal for collective Qurbani?

A: It is not permissible to collect funds without clear authorization from donors. The one collecting must use explicit and transparent wording to get permission. If someone gives with explicit permission stating it may be used for Qurbani, it may be used as their representative. However, using collected funds as a loan and then performing Qurbani does not give the lender any ownership rights — so the Qurbani would not be valid on their behalf.

Feeding the Poor Without Their Knowledge

Q: If someone feeds Qurbani meat to the poor without telling them it is Qurbani — is that permissible?

A: Yes. If the person is genuinely poor and deserving, feeding them is permissible and earns reward. However, the one distributing should give it only to genuine recipients and not deceive anyone about the source.

Is It Permissible to Give the Animal Hide to the Poor?

Q: Is it permissible to give the hide of the Qurbani animal to the poor?

A: Yes, it is not only permissible but highly recommended to give the hide of the Qurbani animal to the poor and needy. This is a great act of charity. The hide can also be kept for personal use (e.g., as a prayer mat or for other household purposes). However, it is not permissible to sell the hide and use the proceeds for personal benefit — if sold, the money must be given to the poor as charity.

Note: Some people unnecessarily fight over the hides of Qurbani animals or prevent the poor from taking them. This is wrong and sinful. The poor have a right to the hide, and causing conflict over it is forbidden. Do not be stubborn or greedy about the animal's hide.

Do Not Unnecessarily Argue Over Hides

Q: Sometimes disputes arise over who gets the Qurbani animal's hide — what is the ruling?

A: Causing arguments, disputes, and enmity among Muslims over the hide of a Qurbani animal is extremely harmful and sinful. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Give glad tidings and do not cause people to flee." Creating division and hatred among Muslims over the hide or meat of Qurbani opens the doors of sin, quarrels, accusations, grudges, and many other evils. Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (may Allah have mercy on him) states that creating strife among Muslims in such matters — where shaytan is an active party — is highly dangerous. Avoid it entirely.

Can Donated Funds From Non-Muslim Religious Schools Be Accepted?

A: If the food comes from a place that is known to be an Islamic religious institution, it is permissible and should not cause offense — provided the intention of the donor is sound and the food itself is lawfully obtained.

Feeding Qurbani Meat to a Sunni School

Q: If a person gives meat to a Sunni school every year — is that the school's property?

A: If it is given to a genuinely Islamic school with sound administration, organizing the meat for its students is permissible and a praiseworthy act. However, do not create division or resentment between Muslims in doing so — this is obligatory to avoid.

Can One Give Qurbani Meat to a Sunni School From Their Own Offering?

A: Yes. If the intention is to benefit the students and support Islamic education — not to promote one organization over another — then it is permissible and praiseworthy.

Selling the Qurbani Hide — And the Ruling on Using the Proceeds for the Mosque

Q: Someone sold their Qurbani animal's hide and with the proceeds bought something for the mosque. What is the ruling?

A: Selling the Qurbani hide for personal benefit or using the proceeds for anything other than giving it to the poor is not permissible. Since the money earned from selling it must be given as charity to the poor, using it to purchase items — even for the mosque — is not correct unless that purchase directly benefits the poor. The hide itself should either be kept for personal use or given directly to the poor. Any money used for religious purposes must come from a lawful and permissible source.

20 Important Reminders for Butchers and Meat Handlers

1. A butcher who regularly manages the selling of meat, slaughtering, and other related tasks should avoid selling or consuming the products of an animal's slaughter as a side business — this goes against professional norms and is harmful to the trade's integrity.
2. Meat should not be sold at hurried, inflated prices — as this undermines trust and habits of overconsumption develop from it. It is necessary to be cautious so that one does not serve food in places where it causes harm.
3. During Eid ul-Adha, bringing a large animal into the crowd, having it led by the neck and then selling its remaining portions and bones to others — some portions end up not being eaten. One should not cause a Muslim to be disrespected in this way. One should ensure sufficient portions of the animal's meat and bones are distributed properly.
4. In general, meat sold in the markets is resold and ends up being placed back in the bag — because the Qurbani owner sees it as already given. But this is a poor method because it ultimately results in the value of the animal being lost due to overweighing.
5. In countries like Pakistan and India where meat is routinely sold, it should not be pushed away with the intention of making it cheaper — the price of meat is determined by the value of the animal itself. Just as experienced sellers handle their own animal's transactions carefully, others should do the same.
6. A domestic cattle owner who had their calf sold for a small amount — in their mind, the rest of the animal's meat is no longer their concern.
7. A butcher who inflates prices on one side, only to bring buyers back to the same place — this is clear deception and must be avoided. There is no justification for it in Islamic law.
8. In some situations, the best part of the animal — such as the loin — is appropriately taken by the butcher as a lawful fee. However, taking it without consent is clear theft and not permissible in Islamic law — even if it goes uncontested due to social norms.
9. Meat that serves both Qurbani purposes and general everyday cooking is taken in both instances — during Qurbani it is appropriate to distribute portions, and the extra meat is taken away in small pieces — in such cases it is appropriate to distribute along with the meat.
10. If an animal grazes in the fields, a rope, bell, or other object around its neck is covered in impurity and blood — it is obligatory to clean these if they are used near pure things. In the absence of a formal slaughter, these objects should not be distributed to Muslims or used for pure purposes.
11. Before carrying the animal to the slaughter place, if pure water is to be used for cleaning — the vessel containing it should not also have the blood of impure hands placed in it. If the vessel becomes contaminated, all the water in it becomes impure. The butcher's solution is straightforward: keep a glass of fresh clean water and carry it carefully to the animal. Do not put the impure-handed water into the clean container — so that the clean water remains pure throughout the animal's slaughter.
12. After slaughter, the blood drips everywhere — the butcher holds the knife with blood-soaked hands and the vessel nearby is also not clean — the inner meat becomes soaked in accumulated blood. It is necessary to wash it to clean it — even though the internal meat contains blood and is clean. But the outer portions become impure due to external blood mixing in. Washing is necessary so that any portion that was not yet clean becomes clean. This is the ruling.
13. It is obligatory for butchers to display the meat of Qurbani in stalls proportionate to the animal's standard — since some butchers in a hurry make large pieces very quickly, and then rush back to the waiting place to get another animal's portion. In doing so, they cause distress to those who arrive and those who are still in line. This causes the butcher immense hardship — those who cause hardship to others will be held accountable by Allah.
14. Some butchers, out of greed for the animal, take too many and rotate one spot to another — cutting each one in sequence and returning to the waiting queue. Those waiting find the butcher has disappeared somewhere else — and become angry when they return. The butcher's task requires maximum courteous engagement with clients and must be carried out with full accountability.
15. It is obligatory for butchers to correctly identify the forbidden parts of the animal so that those who consume the meat do not unknowingly eat unlawful items. (The list of forbidden parts is discussed below.)
16. Meat sellers who sell flesh for the purposes of Qurbani, contrary to the Islamic law, cut 100 animals incorrectly in order to earn money — with only one animal destined for proper slaughter. Both animals in their hands will be lost — because according to the Prophetic practice, cutting too many animals quickly becomes a very large sin over time.
17. Some butchers sell meat pieces including the large ones after skinning the animal, adding water into the large veins using a pipe — the weight of the meat increases by this method. The butcher who does this sins greatly, as the buyer is being cheated. Some poultry sellers also inflate the weight of their chicken by soaking it for a long time before weighing.
18. A butcher who correctly performs the slaughter in a timely manner is an important person — we must be patient with them and not rush or insult them, nor make them do wrong. The butcher's task requires full cooperation and no opportunity for complaint should be given.
19. The meat that contains blood at the spot where slaughter was done — the owner must note this and inform the butcher so it can be cleaned and made pure.
20. The animal that is being brought for slaughter — it should be made clear by a recognizable sign that this is where the obligation lies, i.e., that slaughter is obligatory and must be done here. This is recognizable through a clear sign such as a visible label (known as a "clear sign") or through proof as understood. A woman or wife or children on the animal's side knowing and approving it — and those who are aware and approving — is sufficient. (Fatawa Ahlus-Sunnah, unpublished)

Which 22 Parts of the Animal Must Not Be Eaten?

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (may Allah have mercy on him) writes in Faizan-e-Sunnat that the following parts of a lawfully slaughtered animal are either forbidden or strongly disliked to consume:

#	Part of the Animal	Ruling
1	Blood (flowing blood at the time of slaughter)	Forbidden
2	Gall bladder	Forbidden
3	Male reproductive organ	Forbidden
4, 5	Signs and glands (lymph nodes)	Forbidden
6	Nasal glands	Forbidden
7	Ear nerves (Kidney area)	Forbidden
8	Bile duct (internal glands)	Forbidden
9	The two veins behind the two sides of the neck (glands in the throat area)	Forbidden
10	Jugular veins (the veins that run from the throat)	Forbidden (the blood inside them)
11	Blood remaining in the body after slaughter	Forbidden
12	Blood of the meat that seeps out after slaughter	Forbidden (must be washed away)
13	Heart blood	Disliked to consume directly
14	Bile (yellow water/fluid in the stomach)	Forbidden
15	Nose — its inner mucus is very frequent in the sheep	Remove before cooking
16	The eating place (food channel/stomach)	Remove carefully
17	Intestines (stomach lining)	Disliked to eat directly
18	Intestines (inner tract)	Disliked
19, 20	The reproductive fluid (that has become blood)	Forbidden
21	That reproductive fluid (which made the whole animal fully develop and then died)	Forbidden
22	Any reproductive fluid that came out during slaughter	Forbidden

Reference: Fatawa Razawiyya, Vol. 20, pp. 240–241

What Is the Ruling on Flowing Blood in a Slaughtered Animal?

The blood that flows out at the time of slaughter is impure and forbidden to consume. The blood found in the veins of birds such as chickens, turkeys, and the large and small veins in the necks of larger animals contains blood at specific points — particularly in the legs, neck area, thigh area, and large bones. After slaughter, these veins become dark (like dark blood vessels) and are visible as dark streaks in the meat of legs and thighs. It is better to remove them. If they are eaten, it is not a sin.

What Is the Spinal Cord and Why Must It Be Removed Before Cooking?

This white cord runs from the beginning of the neck down through the full length of the backbone. An expert butcher knows this and extracts it carefully by making two cuts. However, due to carelessness, a small portion often remains in rice dishes or other cooked food. It is necessary to remove it before cooking, as it contains the forbidden spinal cord. The poultry and the necks of other birds also contain this cord — since it is very difficult to remove before eating, it is better to take it out before cooking.

Tendons — Are They Permissible to Eat?

Tendons serve to strengthen the neck — the two long yellow tendons on both sides of the neck extend all the way to the shoulders. These are permissible to eat, but they are very tough and difficult to chew. When cooking, the bones that contain them should be cleaned, as the goat and poultry neck tendons contain them too. Whatever is cooking should be checked and the tendons removed at the appropriate time.

What Are Internal Glands and Why Must They Be Removed Before Cooking?

Glands appear on the throat, in some joints, and in some chest areas — they are sometimes pinkish or reddish in color, sometimes rounded. They appear in the throat glands and are also found in the stomach area. These are forbidden to eat — they must be removed before cooking. If they are visible in the cooked meat, remove them then as well.

Are Kidneys Permissible to Eat According to Islamic Law?

The kidneys (also called by various regional names) are the two kidney organs found inside the stomach cavity of cattle, goats, sheep, and other animals. They are small, oval-shaped, whitish organs. When the animal is opened, they are clearly visible. Their ruling:

• Eating kidneys is strongly disliked and close to forbidden according to the scholars
• Unfortunately, many Muslims consume them without knowing this ruling
• They should be identified and removed before cooking
• The butcher must be aware of this ruling and point them out to the owner
• The reason for their prohibition is that they are organs associated with impurity in the animal's body
• In some regions they are called by a local name — this itself indicates their disliked nature

Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (may Allah have mercy on him) states: The kidneys are among those parts of a lawfully slaughtered animal that are strongly disliked to eat. Unfortunately, many people eat them without awareness. A Muslim who knows this ruling must avoid them and inform others.
(Fatawa Razawiyya, Vol. 20, pp. 240–241)

What Is the Islamic Ruling on Eating the Stomach Lining and Intestinal Tract?

The stomach lining and intestinal tract refers to the inner stomach bag and the connected digestive organs of the animal. The detailed ruling:

• The stomach lining itself is strongly disliked to eat — it contains inner filth and impurity of the animal
• It begins white-colored from the beginning of the neck and runs through the full digestive tract to the end
• If one wishes to eat it, it must be thoroughly cleaned — washed multiple times until completely pure
• An expert butcher removes it carefully by making cuts, but careless butchers often leave portions inside the meat
• Due to carelessness, portions often end up in rice dishes or other cooked food — this is harmful and sinful
• It is better and safer to remove it entirely before cooking rather than trying to clean it partially
• The stomach lining (inner bag) of the animal similarly must be emptied and washed thoroughly before any use

Practical advice: When purchasing meat, especially from a butcher during Eid, ask them to identify and remove the stomach lining, intestinal tract, and kidneys. Many butchers, due to haste, do not do this properly. A responsible Muslim should know these parts and ensure they are removed from the meat before cooking.

An Important Legal Note on the 22 Forbidden Parts

All the above parts are either forbidden (absolutely forbidden) or strongly disliked to consume. Today, due to carelessness and a lack of religious knowledge, many of these parts are routinely cooked and sold. A butcher's job requires awareness of these rulings. A responsible Muslim who knows these rulings must actively attempt to identify these parts in the meat they purchase and either remove them or inform others before consumption.

What Are the Correct Intentions for Qurbani Gatherings?

Two narrations of the Prophet ﷺ teach us:

1. "A Muslim's actions are judged by their intentions, and every person gets what they intended." — The best intention always leads to the greatest reward.
2. "A good intention is better than the deed itself." — A person who intends more good deeds earns more reward, even if they cannot perform every single one.

Important intentions for those participating in Qurbani:

1. I am performing this Qurbani solely for the pleasure of Allah.
2. I intend to follow the example of Ibrahim (peace be upon him).
3. I will keep the Prophetic practice alive in my life at all times.
4. Through Qurbani, I will encourage people to pray in congregation.
5. I will wear clean and pure clothing and observe Islamic boundaries.
6. I will also encourage my family members to perform Qurbani.
7. I will serve those who are performing Qurbani.
8. I will distribute meat among the travellers and the poor of the area.
9. While distributing meat, I will encourage others to be grateful to Allah.
10. Wherever meat is being distributed, I will recite blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ.

What Is the Prophetic Practice of Eating on the Day of Eid ul-Adha?

The Master of all Messengers, the Mercy to all worlds, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ had a blessed practice on the day of Eid ul-Adha:

The Prophet ﷺ would not eat anything on the day of Eid ul-Adha until he returned from the Eid prayer — then he would eat from his own Qurbani animal (its meat).

— Musnad Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Vol. 9, p. 17, Hadith 23045

In another narration: He ﷺ would eat the liver from his own Qurbani animal first.

— Ma'rifat al-Sunan wal-Athar li-l-Bayhaqi, Vol. 3, p. 35, Hadith 1886 | Al-Binaya Sharh al-Hidaya, Vol. 3, p. 121 — in Bahare Shariat, Vol. 3, p. 784 (summarised)

Two recommended practices on Eid ul-Adha:

• It is recommended on the day of Eid ul-Adha to eat nothing before the Eid prayer — fast until after the prayer
• After returning from the Eid prayer, it is recommended to eat from one's own Qurbani animal — and specifically to eat the liver first
• If one does not perform Qurbani, it is not disliked to eat before the prayer — but it is still better to refrain

A Heartfelt Request

Dear Islamic brothers and sisters! Always perform Qurbani with sincerity and with multiple good intentions — because without a good intention, even a good deed earns no reward, and the more good intentions one makes, the more reward one earns.

1. I am performing this Qurbani for the pleasure of Allah
2. I intend to follow the blessed example of the Prophet ﷺ
3. I will keep the Prophetic practice steadfast in my life
4. Through Qurbani, I will encourage people to attend religious gatherings and congregational prayers
5. I will wear clean, appropriate clothing and maintain Islamic boundaries throughout
6. I will serve those performing Qurbani near me with care and compassion
7. I will distribute meat to the poor and needy in my neighborhood
8. I will perform this act with a sincere heart, seeking only the pleasure of Allah

The Prophet ﷺ said: "The most beloved deed to Allah after the obligatory acts is bringing joy to the heart of a fellow Muslim."

— Al-Mu'jam al-Kabir li-l-Tabarani, Vol. 11, p. 9, Hadith 11079

May Allah accept our Qurbani, forgive our sins, and grant us steadfastness on the path of the Prophetic practice. Ameen.

Gulam-e-Aqa Islamic guidance writer at Pure Islamic Women's Guidance

Frequently Asked Questions: Women & Qurbani

Yes. Every adult Muslim woman who is a resident, mentally sound, and possesses wealth equal to the prescribed minimum threshold — beyond her essential needs and debts — is obligated to offer Qurbani. Being a woman does not exempt her from this duty. The obligation applies equally to men and women on the same conditions.

Yes. A woman may perform Qurbani on behalf of herself and also arrange it on behalf of family members who cannot afford it — provided she has their permission. However, if each member of the household independently meets the minimum wealth threshold, each is individually obligated and one shared animal does not suffice for multiple obligations unless it is a cow or camel with seven shares.

A woman may slaughter the animal herself, provided she knows the correct Islamic method and recites Bismillah at the time of slaughter. However, it is preferable for a knowledgeable man to perform the actual slaughter. The woman's presence at her own Qurbani is recommended and carries spiritual reward.

No. Qurbani is only obligatory on those who possess wealth equal to or exceeding the prescribed minimum threshold beyond their essential needs and debts. A woman who genuinely lacks this threshold bears no obligation and commits no sin by not performing Qurbani. However, if she can afford it in any way — through savings, by arranging funds, or by participating in a joint Qurbani — she is strongly encouraged to do so for its immense spiritual rewards.

According to the scholarly opinion, it is recommended for the person who intends to perform Qurbani to refrain from cutting their hair and nails from the 1st of the month of Pilgrimage until after the slaughter is performed. This applies equally to men and women. It is not a sin to cut them, but refraining earns reward. If a woman cannot control this for medical or practical reasons, she is not sinful.

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For detailed rules on Hajj and Umrah for women, including guardian requirements and Hajj on behalf of others, visit the full guide below:

Special Rules for Hajj & Women — 16 Essential Islamic Guidelines