The story of Qurbani
Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) had a dream that Allah (SWT) had instructed him to sacrifice his only son, Ismail (peace be upon him).
Difficult as it was, Ibrahim submitted to the will of Allah (SWT), recognising this as a test of his faith in this phase of his prophethood. He asked Ismail to travel with him to Mount Arafat to perform the sacrifice.
Ibrahim told his son Ismail about his dream and Ismail – who later became a prophet himself, and had an equally unwavering faith in Allah (SWT) – submitted himself.
Just as Ibrahim was about to perform the sacrifice, Allah (SWT) intervened saying, “O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision and now you will be rewarded!”
Allah (SWT) sent a ram to Ibrahim to be sacrificed instead of Ismail.
The significance of Qurbani
Performing Qurbani for the sake of Allah is a means for Muslims to reach the level of submission shown by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him).
Prophet Ibrahim’s story reflects his high level of faith (Imān), his certainty (Yaqeen), and his reliance upon Allah in knowing what is best for him (Tawakkul). He was prepared to give up that which was most precious to him from among his worldly blessings in order to seek the pleasure of Allah.
Giving Qurbani is a means for us to reflect on our relationship with Allah and the importance of putting Him before anyone or anything in our lives. We are also reminded to give up that which may harm our faith, and to increase our good deeds for His sake.
Among the significant messages of Prophet Ibrahim’s story, is the duty we have to those who are struggling, and the sanctity of Allah’s creation and the world around us.
Why do Muslims give Qurbani?
Donating Qurbani is highly recommended according to the majority of scholars, and is obligatory in the Hanafi Madhab for every Muslim who is financially able.
Qurbani is also a means of instilling important values in one’s life – including devotion and submission to Allah, as well as enhancing our empathy for those less fortunate.
Donate your Qurbani today and brighten Eid for a family in need.