Understanding Qurbani: The Importance of Kindness and Proper Practices in Animal Sacrifice
QURBANI: THE SUNNAH WAY
While the Muslim community has always upheld the obligation of Qurbani with profound eagerness, it has been unfortunately observed that at times the slaughter and treatment of Qurbani animals is harsh and inconsiderate. Ignorance and negligence regarding the proper method of slaughter can diminish and even void the reward and virtue of this noble obligation. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “A prostitute had once been forgiven. She passed by a dog panting near a well. Thirst had nearly killed him, so she took off her sock, tied it to her veil, and drew up some water. ALLĀH forgave her for that.” {Al-Bukhārī #3321, Muslim #2245}
The Messenger of ALLĀH (ﷺ) also said: "A woman was punished due to a cat she had imprisoned until it died, so she entered the Hellfire. She did not give it food or water while it was imprisoned, nor did she set it free to eat vermin of the earth." {Al-Bukhārī #3482, Muslim #2242}The following are some of the acts that must be rectified:
1⃣. Leaving animals hungry and thirsty before slaughter.
2⃣. Sharpening of blades in clear view of the animals.
3⃣. Slaughtering in full view of other animals.
4⃣. Skinning while movement exists in the animal.
5⃣. Carelessly dragging the animal on its back.
6⃣. Stunning of cattle.
7⃣. Slaughtering with a blunt knife.
8⃣. Slaughtering by persons, especially children, who do not know how to slaughter correctly.
Abu Yala Shaddad-Ibn-Aus (may ALLĀH be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of ALLĀH (ﷺ) said:
"Verily, ALLĀH has enjoined Ihsan (excellence) with regard to everything. So, when you kill, kill in a good way; when you slaughter, slaughter in a good way; so everyone of you should sharpen his knife, and let the slaughtered animal die comfortably." {Muslim #1955}May ALLĀH accept our sacrifices.