What is the meaning and significance of Qurban (sacrifice)?

Qurban is an Arabic word meaning “to draw near”. In essence, it refers to drawing closer to the Creator by performing good deeds worthy of His mercy. In Islamic law, it specifically means slaughtering an animal at a prescribed time, with the intention of seeking Allah’s pleasure and in accordance with certain rules [1].

Regarding the meaning and significance of Qurban, the Almighty says:

لَنْ تَنَالُوا الْبِرَّ حَتَّىٰ تُنْفِقُوا مِمَّا تُحِبُّونَ

“You will never attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love” [2].

This verse means that a person will not attain the pleasure of their Lord until they give the best of their wealth in charity, sadaqah, or zakat. Thus, when a Muslim offers a sacrifice for the sake of Allah, their sincerity and obedience to their Lord’s command are put to the test. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) underwent such a trial. In general, wealth is given to humanity as a means to shield them from punishment in the Hereafter and to help them attain Allah’s pleasure.

Allah does not need the blood, meat, or skin of the sacrificed animal. As stated in the holy verse, what matters to the Creator is not the physical offering, but the sincerity and intention of the servant. The Almighty says:

لَنْ يَنَالَ اللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَلَٰكِنْ يَنَالُهُ التَّقْوَىٰ مِنْكُمْ

“Neither their meat nor their blood reaches Allah, but what reaches Him is your piety” [3].

Indeed, what matters most to Allah is not the outward form of worship, but its meaning. The sincerity and piety of the servant are of utmost importance.

Qurban is an act of worship performed as gratitude for the countless blessings Allah has bestowed and for reaching another year in safety and well-being. It is also a means of seeking forgiveness for sins committed throughout the year. The meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed among one’s family, relatives, neighbors, and the poor. Through this, social harmony, unity, compassion, kinship, and goodwill are strengthened in the community.

• [1] Radd al-Muhtar, 9/452.

• [2] Surah Al-Imran, 92.

• [3] Surah Al-Hajj, 37.