What is Qurbani? The legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (as)
Every year during Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world honour the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (as) through the act of Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah.
While many recognize it as the ritual sacrifice performed during Eid, its meaning goes far beyond the act itself.
Qurbani reflects obedience to Allah (swt), trust during hardship, and compassion for others.
The tradition began with a profound test given to Prophet Ibrahim (as) and the remarkable response of his son Ismail (as).
Their story remains a lasting example of faith, patience, and complete submission to Allah (swt).
The story of Ibrahim (as) and Ismail (as)
A divine test
After years of patience and prayer, Prophet Ibrahim (as) was blessed with a son.
Soon after, Allah (swt) tested him with a command that would become one of the greatest examples of faith in Islamic history.
Allah (swt) says:
“And when (his son Ismail) reached the age when he could work with him, Ibrahim (as) said, ‘O my son! I have surely repeatedly seen in a dream that I am sacrificing you. So ponder (over it and let me know) what you think.’ He replied, ‘O my father! Do whatever you have been commanded (to do); you shall find me, God willing, of the patient ones.’”
Surah As-Saffat, Ayah 102
Rather than questioning Allah’s (swt) command, Ismail (as) responded with patience and trust.
The exchange between father and son reflects complete sincerity and devotion.
Completed submission
As Prophet Ibrahim (as) prepared to fulfil the command, both he and Ismail (as) showed unwavering submission to Allah (swt).
Allah (swt) says:
“So when they both (totally) submitted and Ibrahim (as) placed Ismail down with one side of the forehead on the ground, (We were pleased with their devotion) and (so) We called out to him saying: O Ibrahim! You have indeed made a dream come true! Surely this is how We reward the good-doers (by putting them at a higher test level so that they would deserve a greater reward).”
Surah As-Saffat, Ayah 103-105
This moment demonstrated that true faith requires trust in Allah (swt), even during life’s most difficult tests.
A great sacrifice
Before Ismail (as) could be sacrificed, Allah (swt) replaced him with a ram as a mercy and reward for Prophet Ibrahim’s (as) obedience.
“Indeed this is a manifest test; and, (so) We ransomed and (replaced him) with a great sacrifice (in the form of a sheep).”
Surah As-Saffat, Ayah 106-107
This event became the foundation of Qurbani, which Muslims continue to observe every year during Eid al-Adha.
What does Qurbani really mean?
The word Qurbani comes from the Arabic word “qurb”, meaning closeness.
Although the act involves the sacrifice of an animal, the deeper meaning centres on sincerity, devotion, and drawing closer to Allah (swt).
Allah (swt) says:
“Never will the (animals’) flesh or their blood reach Allah (swt); however, what reaches Him from you is piety…”
Surah Al-Hajj, Ayah 37
This verse reminds Muslims that Qurbani is not simply about sacrifice itself, but about the intention behind it.
It encourages believers to let go of pride, selfishness, and attachment to worldly comforts while strengthening compassion and gratitude.
How Qurbani is practised today
Today, Muslims practise Qurbani during Eid al-Adha by sacrificing animals such as sheep, goats, cows, or camels according to Islamic teachings.
The meat is then shared among relatives, neighbours, and families experiencing hardship.
The charitable purpose of Qurbani is strongly emphasized in Islamic teachings.
Prophet Muhammad (saww) is reported to have said:
“Allah (swt) has established this Udhiyah so that your poor may eat meat, so feed them.”
Wasail al-Shiah, v.14, s.3, ch.14, h.18989
Lesson from Prophet Ibrahim’s (as) legacy
The story of Prophet Ibrahim (as) continues to teach Muslims valuable lessons about faith and obedience.
His willingness to submit fully to Allah (swt) demonstrates the importance of trust, even when facing uncertainty or hardship.
Qurbani also reminds believers that sacrifice is not limited to wealth or possessions.
It includes sacrificing pride, selfishness, and personal desires for the sake of Allah (swt).
At the same time, the practice encourages generosity and care for others by helping provide food and support to families in need during Eid.
Final reflections
Qurbani remains a powerful reminder of faith, sacrifice, and compassion rooted in the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (as).
Through this act of worship, Muslims reflect on sincerity, gratitude, and the importance of helping others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Muslims perform Qurbani to remember the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (as) when he was tested by Allah (swt). It is also an act of charity that helps provide food to families in need during Eid al-Adha.
Prophet Ibrahim (as) is one of the most respected prophets in Islam. He is remembered for his faith, patience, and complete trust in Allah (swt).
The command involving Prophet Ismail (as) was part of a divine test for Prophet Ibrahim (as). Through their willingness to obey Allah (swt), both father and son demonstrated sincerity and submission.
Animals commonly used for Qurbani include sheep, goats, cows, and camels, provided they meet Islamic requirements related to age and health.
Qurbani is obligatory for pilgrims during Hajj, while many Muslims outside Hajj observe it as a highly recommended act of worship during Eid al-Adha.
The meat is generally divided among family, friends, and people facing hardship so that more families can benefit and share in the blessings of Eid al-Adha.
