Giving Qurbani for the first time might feel overwhelming if you're unfamiliar with the practice, but the good news is that it's more straightforward than you might think. Every year, millions of Muslims around the world perform Qurbani, and many of them are doing it for the very first time. Whether you're wondering about the rules, the cost, or simply how to get started, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your first Qurbani experience meaningful and hassle-free.

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah, is the Islamic practice of sacrificing an animal during the Eid al-Adha season to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's ٺ willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. It's a beautiful act of worship that combines devotion with charity. For a fuller explanation of the history and spiritual significance, see our article What Is Qurbani?

Do I have to give Qurbani?

The short answer is: if you're able to afford it, you should seriously consider it. The longer answer involves some nuance that scholars have discussed for centuries.

According to most Islamic schools, Qurbani is either wajib (obligatory) or sunnah mu'akkadah (a strongly emphasized practice), depending on which school of thought you follow. The determining factor is nisab - the minimum amount of wealth that makes you liable for certain Islamic duties like Zakat.

Here's a practical rule of thumb: if you pay Zakat, you should give Qurbani. If you own wealth above the Zakat threshold and you're in a position to sacrifice an animal, it's the right thing to do. If you're uncertain about your own circumstances, consult with a qualified scholar who knows your situation.

For more detailed information about who should give and when, refer to our article on Qurbani rules.

Choosing your animal

Qurbani animals fall into two main categories: smaller animals and larger animals.

Sheep or goats represent one share of Qurbani. One animal equals one person's obligation, and the meat is typically distributed to three groups: family, friends, and those in need.

Cows or camels are much larger and can represent up to seven shares. This is where Qurbani becomes more affordable and flexible for many families. Instead of buying an entire sheep for yourself, you can purchase one share of a cow that's divided among seven people. This approach is not only valid in Islam - it's actually very common and practical, especially for first-time givers looking for a more budget-conscious option.

Sharing a larger animal with family members, friends, or through a charity like Human Appeal means you're fulfilling your obligation while keeping individual costs down. There's no less blessing in sharing; in fact, the practice exemplifies the communal spirit of Eid al-Adha.

What does Qurbani cost?

The cost of Qurbani varies considerably depending on several factors: the type of animal you choose, the country where the sacrifice takes place, and current market prices. A share in a goat might cost significantly less than a share in a cow, which in turn might cost less than a full camel share, depending on the region.

When you give Qurbani through a charity like Human Appeal, you have the flexibility to choose both the animal type and the country where your sacrifice will be performed. This means you control your budget. If you're looking for a more affordable option, choosing a goat or a share in a larger animal in a specific region can help. Human Appeal works in over 15 countries, so you can find an option that fits your circumstances.

Rather than guessing at specific prices, we recommend visiting our Qurbani donation page to see current pricing for different animals and locations. Prices fluctuate with markets and seasons, so checking directly ensures you have the most accurate information.

Giving Qurbani through a charity

One of the most common and valid ways to perform Qurbani is by delegating it to a trusted charity - a practice known as tawkil. Rather than arranging the sacrifice yourself, you trust an organization to carry out the slaughter on your behalf according to Islamic guidelines. This approach is completely permissible and widely practiced.

When you donate to Human Appeal for Qurbani, here's what happens:

• You select the animal type and country where you'd like your sacrifice to take place
• Human Appeal's local teams arrange the slaughter after the Eid al-Adha prayer on the designated days
• The meat is distributed to families in need across our 15+ program countries
• You receive confirmation of your donation and details about where your Qurbani was performed

This approach is especially valuable for first-time givers because it removes logistical complexity while ensuring your Qurbani is handled with care and in accordance with Islamic principles. You're making your intention and completing your obligation; the charity handles the execution.

What should I do on the day?

The spiritual preparation for Qurbani begins before the actual day of slaughter. Here are the key actions:

Make your niyyah (intention). Before Eid al-Adha arrives, clarify in your heart that you're performing Qurbani as an act of worship to Allah. Your intention doesn't need to be spoken aloud - it's a private commitment.

Say Bismillah Allahu Akbar at the time of donation. If you're giving through a charity, you can say these words when you make your donation or at any point during the days of Qurbani. This invokes Allah's name and affirms your submission.

Avoid cutting your hair and nails from the 1st of Dhul Hijjah. If you intend to offer Qurbani, many scholars recommend refraining from cutting your hair or trimming your nails from the first day of Dhul Hijjah until after your sacrifice is complete. For the detailed rules and exceptions, see Qurbani rules.

Beyond these practical steps, Qurbani is ultimately about your connection with Allah. The act reflects Prophet Ibrahim's ٺ example of complete obedience and trust, and when you perform it with sincerity, you're participating in a tradition spanning centuries and continents.

Frequently asked questions

Can I give Qurbani if I'm not sure I meet the nisab threshold?

If you're uncertain, the safest approach is to consult a qualified scholar who can assess your specific financial situation. Alternatively, if giving Qurbani would not cause hardship to you or your family, many scholars encourage you to give anyway - the reward is significant, and the intention matters.

What if I want to give Qurbani but can't afford a full animal?

Sharing a larger animal like a cow or camel is specifically designed for this situation. You can purchase one or more shares without buying an entire animal. This is a valid, affordable, and common way to fulfill your Qurbani obligation.

Is it acceptable to perform Qurbani through a charity if I could do it myself?

Yes, absolutely. Delegating Qurbani to a trusted organization through tawkil is a well-established Islamic practice. You're not required to perform the slaughter yourself; what matters is that your intention is sincere and the sacrifice is carried out correctly according to Islamic guidelines.

When exactly can I give Qurbani?

Qurbani can be performed on Eid al-Adha day and the three days following it (a total of four days). Your donation through a charity can be made anytime during this period. For more specifics about timing, refer to Qurbani rules.

What happens to the meat from my Qurbani?

When you give through Human Appeal, the meat is distributed to families in need in the country where the sacrifice takes place. Your donation directly feeds vulnerable families during Eid, turning your act of worship into tangible support for those struggling with food insecurity.

Sources

1. Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) according to the four schools of Islamic law on Qurbani obligations and conditions
2. Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim - authentic hadith collections on Prophet Ibrahim and the practice of Qurbani
3. Contemporary Islamic scholars' guidance on delegating Qurbani through charitable organizations
4. Human Appeal's field experience delivering Qurbani across 15+ countries

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes. For rulings specific to your circumstances, please consult a qualified scholar.

By Human Appeal

California, USA