Hajj is the last pillar of Islam and mandatory on Muslims who can afford it, once in a lifetime.
It is a religious pilgrimage that takes place annually in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
You might also have about Qurbani, the sacrifice which is also a part of Hajj and the sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim. It is practiced even by the Muslims all round the world on Eid ul Adha. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss the Qurbani rules for pilgrims too.
What is Qurbani?
Qurbani is the act of animal sacrifice Hajj. It holds a profound religious and spiritual significance in Islam. The pilgrims also observe sacrifice and even the non-pilgrims sacrifice animals during the days of Eid ul Adha. Qurbani is a scared ritual that commemorates the obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S), who was willing to sacrifice his son, on Allah’s command.
What is Hajj tamattu?
These are three types of Hajj that are performed:
Hajj Ifrad:
Hajj ifrad is a type of Hajj pilgrimage where a person performs only the rituals of Hajj, without Umrah. This type of pilgrimage is usually performed by those who enter the state of ihram for Hajj only.
Hajj qiran:
Hajj Qiran is a type of Hajj pilgrimage where a person combines both Umrah and Hajj in a single ihram. The pilgrim performs Umrah and Hajj consecutively without exiting the state of ihram. The pilgrims stay in Ihram for almost 5-6 days. This type of Hajj is considered the most virtuous and rewarding.
Hajj tamattu:
Hajj Tamattu is a type of Hajj pilgrimage where a person performs Umrah and Hajj separately, with a break in between to exit the state of ihram. The pilgrim enters ihram for Umrah, performs the rituals, exits ihram, and then re-enters ihram for Hajj on the 8th of Dhu al-Hijjah. This type of Hajj allows pilgrims to experience both Umrah and Hajj, with a chance to rest and prepare for the Hajj rituals. Pilgrims performing Hajj Tamattu are required to offer a sacrifice (Qurban). It’s a popular option for those who want to combine Umrah and Hajj. The Hajj tamattu Qurbani requirements include:
- Eligiblity: Pilgrims that perform Hajj Tamattu are required to offer Qurbani.
- Type of animal: For sacrifice, a sheep, goat, cow and camel are required that meet according to the Islamic criteria of sacrifice.
- Criteria for Islamic sacrifice during Hajj:
Age of animals:
- Sheep/goats: at least 1 year old.
- Cows/oxen: at least 2 years old.
- Camels: at least 5 years old.
The animal should be healthy, free from defects, and fit for consumption.
There should be no visible defects, such as:
- Blindness
- Lameness
- Significant injury or illness
The animal should be slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines (Zabiha).
These criteria ensure the animal is suitable for sacrifice and consumption.
- Place: Mina is the most recommended place for sacrifice and it can also be done in Makkah on 10th of Dhul Hijjah.
- Distribution: The meat from the sacrifice is distributed among the poor and needy.
What happens if someone does not follow the Qurbani animal requirements?
Qurbani is practiced to commemorate the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail. If someone doesn’t follow the Qurbani requirements, the sacrifice might not be considered valid.
What does Prophet Ibrahim sacrifice stor teach us?
Here is a summary of Prophet Ibrahim’s story:
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had a dream where he saw himself sacrificing his son Ismail (AS) Believing it was a command from Allah, he told Ismail (AS), who submitted willingly. As Prophet Ibrahim prepared to sacrifice Ismail, Allah intervened, providing a ram instead. This story showcases Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith, obedience, and trust in Allah, and is celebrated during Eid al-Adha.
When the Prophet Ibrahim was on his way to sacrifice his son, three times the Satan tried to weaver his faith, but the Prophet threw pebbles at him and avoided him. So, that is why the Muslims perform Rami Jamarat.
The story of Prophet Ibrahim teaches us the following:
- Unweavering faith and obedience
- Selflessness and sacrifice
- Patience and perseverance
- Trust in Allah’s wisdom
- Symbolism of sacrifice
Eid ul Adha is celebrated on 10th of Dhul Hijjah the 12th month of the Hijri calendar. The Muslims who can afford it also sacrifice the animals at their places while the pilgrims perform the sacrifice after Rami. If you go with Pakistan Hajj packages with a top class Hajj service provider then they will guide with all the rituals and requirements for any Hajj type.
Qurbani is more than just a ritual, it is a deeply spiritual practice that reflects faith, obedience and compassion. It connects millions of Muslims and is also a great chance to help the needy. The sacrifice should be performed with sincerity and reverence to achieve the award.
