Qurbani/Udhiya FAQs - Everything You Need to Know!

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani/Udhiya is when Muslims sacrifice an animal for the sake of Allah.

It commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (as), who was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (as).

Just as he was about to carry out the command, Allah replaced Ismail (as) with a ram accepting the sacrifice and declaring that Ibrahim (as) had passed the test.

The story of Qurbani/Udhiya is a reminder of their devotion, obedience, and unwavering faith.

Their legacy lives on through every Qurbani for Eid as a symbol of love, obedience, and trust in Allah.

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When is Qurbani performed?

Qurbani must be offered after the Eid al-Adha prayer and before the last of the Days of Tashreeq (the 13th day of Dhul Hijjah) before Maghrib. This is the 4th day of Eid.

Is Qurbani required for everyone?

Qurbani is an act of devotion that holds immense spiritual significance. For those who can afford it, Qurbani is highly recommended, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). It is an opportunity to draw closer to Allah, to reflect on His mercy, and to engage in an act of selflessness that benefits those in need.

The majority view is that Qurbani/Udhiya for Eid is a Sunnah mu’akkadah (emphasized sunnah). Imam Al-Shafi'i, Imam Malik, and Imam Ahmad hold this view. The view of Imam Abu Hanifah is that it is a fardh (obligation).

Shaikh Muhammad ibn ‘Uthaymeen said: “Udhiya is Sunnah mu’akkadah for the one who is able to do it, so a person should offer the sacrifice on behalf of himself and the members of his household.”

To do your Qurbani for Eid in Canada, you can donate through National Zakat Foundation Canada and feed Muslim families in Canada who need it the most.

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What is the reward of doing Qurbani?

The reward of Qurbani is immense—not because of the animal itself, but because of the sincerity behind your sacrifice.

As Allah says in the Qur’an:

“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your righteousness that reaches Him. Thus, have We made them subject to you that you may glorify Allah for His guidance to you. And give good tidings to the doers of good.”

(Qur'an, Surah Al-Hajj)

The Prophet (SAW) said: "It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim (AS). For every hair of the sacrificial animal, you receive a reward from Allah. (At-Tirmidhi)

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Which animals can be sacrificed?

The best animals for Qurbani are those who are physically strong and have more meat. These animals can be sheep, cows, buffaloes, goats, lambs, rams and camels. The minimum age for these animals is six months for a lamb, one year for a goat, two years for a cow and five years for a camel. The animal should be free of any defects, physical deformities, and sickness.

The Prophet (saw), said:

"A crippled animal whose limp is obvious is not to be slaughtered as sacrifice, nor an animal with a bad eye whose blindness is obvious, nor a sick animal whose sickness is obvious, nor an emaciated animal that has no marrow (in its bones)."

‍ (Tirmidhi)

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How is Qurbani done?

Qurbani for Eid is done with care, intention, and the remembrance of Allah. It follows the method taught and practiced by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

To begin, the person performing the sacrifice should say “Allahu Akbar” before slaughtering the animal. This is a vital part of the Sunnah, as it affirms that the act is done solely for the sake of Allah.

The animal should be handled gently and respectfully. The Prophet ﷺ placed his foot on the side of the animal to stabilize it, ensuring a swift and humane process.

Aisha (RA) said: "The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) slaughtered two horned male sheep which were mostly white. He slaughtered them with his hand and mentioned Allah's Name, and he said 'Allahu Akbar', and put his foot on their side."

(Tirmidhi)

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Can I cut my hair and nails before Qurbani?

If you have intended to offer Qurbani, then it is recommended that you refrain from trimming your hair & nails from the beginning of the month of Dhul Hijjah until after your qurbani is completed.

The Prophet (saw) said: "When you see the new moon of Dhul-Hijjah and one of you intends to offer a sacrifice, he should refrain from cutting his hair and nails until he has offered his sacrifice." (Sahih Muslim)

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What if I’m tight on money? Is Qurbani still required?

If you're finding it difficult to afford Qurbani for Eid this year, you're not alone—and Islam is a religion of ease and compassion.

According to the majority of scholars, Qurbani is considered a sunnah mu’akkadah (an emphasized Sunnah), not an obligation. This means that while it's highly encouraged and carries great reward, it’s not sinful to miss it if you're struggling financially.

However, for those who are financially stable and able to afford it, choosing to offer Qurbani is an opportunity to follow the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and earn immense reward. Skipping it without a valid reason means missing out on the blessings and spiritual benefits of this noble act.

I missed my Qurbani for previous year(s). Do I have to make it up? And how?

There is no obligation for making up missed qurbani from the previous year(s).

How can I perform my Qurbani in Canada through National Zakat Foundation?

Donate through National Zakat Foundation online to fulfill your Qurbani/Udhiya. National Zakat Foundation will then distribute your Qurbani meat to the most vulnerable members of our community through local community partners and direct deliveries to families in need.

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Why should I do my Qurbani locally?

With the rising cost of living and current economic uncertainty, thousands of Canadians continue to live in poverty and are struggling to make ends meet, despite the availability of government support and benefits. Many of our most vulnerable community members struggle to afford food, especially with the rising cost of halal meat. By giving your Udhiya/Qurbani locally, you can help ensure that our brothers and sisters in need can enjoy a warm meal and take part in the joys of Eid.

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How will NZF ensure the Qurbani is fulfilled correctly?

NZF is working with local reputable professional slaughterhouses and butcher shops to ensure the process from acquiring the animal to the packaging of the meat is at the highest level. NZF Canada will ensure that the animals selected for Qurbani and the method of slaughter will adhere to the strict requirements of an acceptable Islamic Qurbani.

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When will my Qurbani with NZF be completed so I can cut my hair and nails?

NZF will notify you by email upon fulfilment of your Qurbani. After this time, you may proceed with trimming your hair & nails.  NZF plans to fulfill all Qurbani between the 10th and the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.

Final Thoughts: A Sacrifice That Transforms

Through Qurbani, we honour the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and reflect on the meaning of sacrifice in our own lives. It’s a time to purify our hearts, share with those in need, and renew our connection with our Creator.

If you're able to give this year and you're looking for a simple, trusted way to fulfill your Qurbani, NZF Canada is here to help making sure your Qurbani reaches those who need it most, right here in your community.

Let your Qurbani be more than just a ritual. Let it be a revival of faith, compassion, and purpose.

Fulfill your Qurbani