Qurbani (Sacrifice): Its Importance, Virtues, Philosophy, and Etiquette (Part 4)
The Eleventh Etiquette: Saying Bismillah and Takbir
Anyone who does not say “Bismillah” and “Takbir” when slaughtering an animal has acted contrary to the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet of Islam. When he slaughtered two rams with his own hands, he said “Bismillah” and “Takbir.” Therefore, whoever slaughters an animal and does not mention the name of Allah intentionally renders it impermissible to eat. Allah the Almighty says: “وَلَا تَأْكُلُوا مِمَّا لَمْ يُذْكَرِ اسْمُ اللَّهِ عَلَيْهِ وَإِنَّهُ لَفِسْقٌ وَإِنَّ الشَّيَطِينَ لَيُوحُونَ إِلَى أَوْلِيَا بِهِمْ لِيُجَادِلُوكُمْ وَإِنْ أَطَعْتُمُوهُمْ إِنَّكُمْ لمُشْرِكُونَ” Translation: “Do not eat that over which the name of Allah has not been mentioned, for that is disobedience. The devils inspire their friends to argue with you. And if you obey them, you will be polytheists.”
The Twelfth Etiquette: Shedding Blood
The animal’s blood must be shed by cutting its throat, esophagus, and jugular veins. The method of slaughter is secondary; what is important, according to the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), is shedding the animal’s blood: “ما انهر الدم وذكرت اسم الله عليه فكل، ما خلا السن والظفر” Translation: “Eat of any animal whose blood has been shed, and the name of Allah has been mentioned over it, provided that it was not slaughtered with a tooth or a nail.”
Cutting the previously mentioned parts is the best way to shed the animal’s blood; however, blood should not be shed through bones.
The Thirteenth Etiquette: Not Beheading an Animal in Front of Another Animal
A Muslim should not behead a sheep, camel, or other animals in the presence of another animal that is waiting for its turn. This increases the animal’s fear and pain, especially if it witnesses the death of its fellow creature.
The Fourteenth Etiquette: Beheading a Camel While Standing and Other Animals While Lying Down
This practice is also derived from the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). He used to slaughter a camel while standing, tying its left leg. One day, Ibn Umar (MABH) saw a man slaughtering his camel while kneeling. He urged, “Leave him standing and tie him up. This is the Sunnah of your Prophet.”
Does Sacrifice Cause Economic Stagnation?
Today, contrary to the purpose for which Allah made sacrifice obligatory, the notion is propagated that sacrifice is useless. Some claim that millions of dirhams are wasted through bloodshed and that the number of animals is reduced, which harms the economy. Critics suggest that instead of sacrificing and distributing meat, money should be given to the poor for their own needs. Such sentiments, though once held by a specific group, have become widespread. Daily, many question why money cannot replace sacrifice given the existence of poverty in society.
The Soul of the Sacrifice
No form of worship can replace another; if a person aids the poor instead of performing the prescribed prayers, his prayer obligation remains unfulfilled. Every act of worship has specific order, obligations, and duties. The statements that sacrifice is irrational or harmful to the economy negate its philosophy and essence. True happiness and prosperity come through obeying Allah’s commands. The corruption we see in society stems from humanity’s neglect of divine commands in favor of their own reasoning.
Understanding the nature of sacrifice is vital. Optional worship can be performed at any time, but sacrifice is only valid for three days. This teaches us that worship must align with divine command. Religion means adhering to the commands of Allah; without His command, there can be no valid practice.
Economic Considerations
When a person fixates solely on materialism, it becomes challenging to grasp the profound wisdom of Allah’s system. Critics view worship as empty rituals and see sacrifice as a major economic burden. However, morality and the improvement of society are far more significant than fulfilling one’s gluttonous desires. True solutions are found in fostering security and peace, morals, and honest behavior.
Each act of obedience strengthens faith, and sacrifice plays a critical role in reinforcing that motivation.
The essence of sacrifice is not merely about consuming meat but executing Allah’s command, reviving the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), and fostering the spirit of self-sacrifice.
The Holy Quran states: “لَن يَنَالَ اللهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَ لكِن يَنَالُهُ التَّقوى مِنكُم” Translation: “The flesh and blood of your sacrifices do not reach Allah; rather, it is your piety that reaches Him.”
Ultimately, the objective of sacrifice lies in building obedience to Allah and enhancing one’s character in His presence. The notion that a surplus of animals might cause economic issues reveals a lack of awareness of the Creator’s perfect system: when demand increases, supply also increases.
Historically, during early Islam, Muslims sacrificed abundantly, yet there was no shortage of meat or animals. Even today, in regions where sacrifices are common, meat remains available and is often affordable. On the contrary, in places where sacrifices are banned, scarcity can occur.
Ultimately, it’s important for Muslims to perceive sacrifice not just as a customs ritual but as a vital tradition that nurtures their faith and character. Just as prayer fosters humility and zakat purifies wealth, sacrifices cultivate faith and moral fortitude.
