Qurbani During Hajj – A Sacred Act of Devotion and Sacrifice
Qurbani During Hajj – Among the several spiritual benchmarks on the Hajj journey, Qurbani, or the ceremonial sacrifice, has a special and very significant position. It is more than just killing an animal; it’s a potent emblem of loyalty, subservience to Allah, and a recreation of the faith Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) exhibited.
Qurbani is a required ritual for pilgrims doing the Hajj. Offering a sacrifice at Eid al-Adha is a highly advised Sunnah for Muslims anywhere who are not on pilgrimage. But this deed has significantly more spiritual and historical weight during Hajj.
Let’s investigate the meaning, relevance, and Qurbani experience during Hajj.
What is Qurbani?
Qurbani (قرباني) is Arabic for sacrifice. It especially refers to the killing of a sheep, goat, cow, or camel on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah—known as Yawm an-Nahr—during Hajj.
Muslims all across respect the act of devotion and submission shown by Prophet Ibrahim when he was ready to sacrifice his son Ismail (peace be upon them both) upon Allah’s instruction on this day also known as Eid al-Adha.
In His pity, Allah substituted Ismail with a ram and spared his life. Muslims carry Qurbani annually to honor this test of faith.
Qurbani During Hajj: A Fard for Tamattu’ and Qiran Pilgrims
Though there are other forms of the Hajj, Qurbani is required for those doing:
Hajj Tamattu, or Umrah, followed by a pause in between
Hajj Qiran, or Umrah and Hajj carried out jointly without leaving Ihram
Although Qurbani is not necessary for individuals doing Hajj Ifrad—only Hajj without Umrah—many nevertheless do it out of great dedication.
Following the Ramy, or stoning of the demon, at Jamarat, Qurbani is performed; shaving and cutting hair come next, then leaving the state of Ihram. These acts fit the Tahallul, the mechanism enabling pilgrims to start their usual routines once more.
Spiritual Value of Qurbani During Hajj
1. Respect for Allah’s Will
Qurbani is a straight statement of obedience to Allah’s will. The ultimate act of obedience is shown by Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to give his son his life. Offering an animal in sacrifice, pilgrims are so spiritually announcing, “Ya Allah, I surrender to You completely.”
2. Faith Renewal:
Qurbani reminds us of the need to release attachments and personal wishes in line with Allah. It refills the pilgrim’s will and dedication to lead a pious and subservient life.
3. Emulating the Prophet’s Sunnah
Qurbani links us to the lineage of Prophet Ibrahim, Ismail, and Muhammad (peace be upon them). This is an act spanning thousands of years that links generations of believers by a common spiritual practice.
4. Compassion and Charity
Traditionally, the meat from the sacrifice comes in three portions: one for the impoverished, one for relatives or friends, and one for the person (or family) doing the Qurbani. Hajj is a really kind deed since most of the meat is given to the underprivileged in Makkah and all around the globe.
Global Impact: Beyond Borders Sacrifice
At Hajj, millions of animals are sacrificed; the flesh is not thrown away. Modern Saudi Arabian systems like the Adahi Project guarantee correct packaging, hygienic and effective slaughtering techniques, and worldwide distribution. Often reaching underprivileged areas in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, this meat is cheap.
Therefore, when a pilgrim presents Qurbani on the Hajj, the worldwide benefit of their sacrifice feeds families they would never meet. This is a really large-scale charitable deed.
📜 Quranic Proof of Qurbani
The Qur’an and Hadiths help one to understand the value of Qurbani.
“And when he [Ibrahim] arrived with him [Ismail], [the age of] effort he said, “O my son, certainly I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think.” “O, my father, do as you are commanded,” he said. If Allah wills, you will find me, among the steadfast.
Surat As-Saffat (37:102)
Every year on Hajj and Eid al-Adha, this gripping narrative forms the basis of Qurbani and is read and recalled.
For a deeper understanding of the spiritual essence of Qurbani, refer to The Significance of Qurbani by Islamic Relief.
The Journey of a Pilgrim
After days of fervent prayer, picture yourself in Mina standing in long lines for ceremonies, considering your life, faith, and purpose. Then comes the time when your Qurbani is carried out—personal or planned through formal Hajj procedures.
Many find it to be rather emotionally charged.
There are some tears. Some create genuine du’as. Others get a great sense of relief and thanks. At this point, the pilgrim has a strong spiritual connection with Allah since they know that their sacrifice marks their path of faith, struggle, and transformation, therefore transcending the mere physical deed.
Contemporary Qurbani Services In the Hajj
Millions of pilgrims who require sacrificing animals at the same time have logistical difficulties, hence, the Saudi authorities have created coordinated systems:
pilgrims may buy Qurbani tokens or vouchers through the Adahi Project.
These tokens stand for the animal’s expenses; specialists under Shariah-compliant oversight do the sacrifice.
Once the sacrifice is finished, pilgrims get a notice—often via SMS or app—then go to shave their hair and leave Ihram.
While maintaining the dignity of the rite, this technique guarantees hygiene, safety, and equal distribution of meat.
Who Has To Offer Qurbani During Hajj?
Essential for people making Hajj Tamattu’s and Hajj Qiran
Not required for Hajj Ifrad, although advised
According to Islamic law, pilgrims have to make sure the animal satisfies age and size criteria, is healthy, and is free of flaws.
Per the Qur’an (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:196), those unable to afford or access a Qurbani fast for ten days—three during Hajj and seven upon returning home.
Final Thoughts
Qurbani on Hajj is far more than a religious duty. This is a holy time when the traveler, by virtue of humility, generosity, and discipline, spiritually reawakens with Allah. This is one deed that combines compassion, worship, and history into one action.
Qurbani is a potent reminder of what it means to submit to Allah, whether your Hajj this year is saving for the future, you are simply reflecting at home, or both. It challenges every believer to look inside their heart, separate from their own pride, and enter the tradition of real dedication.
May Allah accept the Qurbani of all pilgrims and believers around the world, and may He give us all the opportunity to stand at Mina one day, hearts full, souls humbled, and faith rebuilt.
At Haramain Umrah Travels, we assist pilgrims with essential Hajj & Umrah Services, helping ensure their journey is spiritually fulfilling and logistically seamless.
