Qurbani also known as Udhiyah or Sacrifice is Wajib (necessary), and Sunnah Mu’akkadah (confirmed Sunnah) according to the Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali schools — which means it’s strongly recommended and should not be neglected without a valid reason.
Who Must Perform Udhiyah (Sacrifice/Qurbani)?
Qurbani becomes obligatory (wajib) upon a Muslim who meets the following conditions:
- Muslim – The person must be a follower of Islam.
- Adult – Has reached the age of maturity (puberty).
- Sane – In sound mental state.
- Resident – Not a traveler (according to Hanafi opinion).
- Financially Able – Owns wealth equivalent to or above the Nisab threshold (the minimum amount of wealth requiring Zakat) on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah without being in debt.
Note: The Nisab threshold is approximately the value of 87.48 grams of gold or 612.36 grams of silver.
When Is Qurbani NOT Obligatory?
Qurbani is not required from those who:
- Are not Muslim
- Are children (have not reached puberty)
- Are insane
- Do not possess wealth equal to or above Nisab
- Are in debt and paying the Qurbani would burden them financially
- Are traveling (in the Hanafi view)
Quick Summary
| Condition | Obligatory (Yes/No) | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Muslim | Yes | Non-Muslims are not held accountable. |
| Adult (reached puberty) | Yes | Children are exempt. |
| Sane | Yes | Mentally ill individuals are not accountable. |
| Financially able (owns Nisab) | Yes | Must not be in hardship or deep debt. |
| Traveler (according to Hanafi view) | No | Resident status is required for obligation. |
| Male or Female | Yes | Gender does not affect obligation if other conditions are met. |
| Guardian of child | No | Guardian is not obliged to give Qurbani on behalf of a minor. |
- Each adult Muslim who meets the conditions must offer one Qurbani.
- A single Qurbani (e.g., one sheep or one share in a cow) suffices for one person only.
- If someone has dependents (spouse, children, etc.), they are not obliged to do Qurbani on their behalf unless those individuals meet the criteria themselves.
Qurbani is an act of devotion that reflects gratitude to Allah and follows the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). While not everyone is required to perform it, those who are able should not neglect it. It is a chance to draw nearer to Allah, support the needy, and revive one of the great symbols of Islamic heritage.
May Allah accept our Qurbani and grant us the ability to fulfill this sacred act sincerely and properly. Ameen.
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