Qurbani Meat Distribution Rules
This article has been verified by our scholar Mufti Muhammad Zubair Nadeem (PhD in Islamic Studies and Finance, Takhusus from Jamia Ashrafia)
Udhiyah or Qurbani is a tradition followed by millions of Muslims worldwide. It is the animal sacrifice that is conducted on the day of Eid al-Adha to commemorate the unwavering faith and the Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS). Qurbani is also the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) . While all Islamic schools of thought encourage this great ritual, it is an obligatory act (Wajib) according to the Hanafi school of thought. In this article, we will address how the qurbani meat should be distributed and what quantity should be reserved for distribution among needy people. While there are no stringent Qurbani meat distribution rules, the following guidelines can help you understand the essence of the practice.
Recommended Guidelines for Meat Distribution
Generally, the sacrificial meat is divided into three similar quantities. One portion is reserved for the consumption of the person who performs the Qurbani. Another portion is reserved for their family, friends, and neighbours. While the third portion is distributed among the needy. While this is a common practice many scholars encourage, it isn’t an actual requirement.
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Is it Permissible to Distribute All Qurbani Meat?
It is permissible to distribute all the qurbani meat among the needy. Many Islamic scholars believe that eating from the Qurbani meat is recommended (Mustahabb), but not obligatory. By the same token, it is also permissible to keep a large portion of the qurbani meat for personal consumption. However, the Quran asks us to be considerate and feed the needy and poor.
“And the camels and cattle We have appointed for you as among the symbols of Allah ; for you therein is good. So mention the name of Allah upon them when lined up [for sacrifice]; and when they are [lifeless] on their sides, then eat from them and feed the needy and the beggar. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may be grateful.” (Surat Al-Ĥaj, 22:36)
Hadith that Allows Qurbani Meat Consumption After the Eid
The following Hadith allows Muslims to store the sacrificial meat for later consumption, but also instructs them to give some of it as charity. This Hadith can be used to understand the Qurbani meat distribution rules.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “I used to forbid you to store the meat of the sacrifices for more than three days so that there would be enough for everyone. But now Allah, the mighty and sublime, has bestowed plenty upon us, so eat some, give some in charity and store some, For these days are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allah.” A man said: “O Messenger of Allah, we used to sacrifice the ‘Atirah during the Jahiliyyah in Rajab; what do you command us to do?” He said: “Sacrifice to Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, whatever month it is, do good for the sake of Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, and feed (the poor).” He said: “O Messenger of Allah, we used to sacrifice the Fara’ during the Jahiliyyah; what do you command us to do?” He said: “For every flock of grazing animals, feed the firstborn as you feed the rest of your flock, until it reaches an age where it could be used to carry loads, then sacrifice it, and give its meat in charity to the wayfarer, for that is good.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i, 4230)
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Preparing Meat Portions with Fairness and Consideration
Another question that may arise while preparing the three portions is whether the choicest parts of the meat should be kept for personal consumption or divided equally into three portions quantitatively and qualitatively.
The answer to the question might lie in the following Hadith:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “None of you believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, 2515)
Therefore, one should keep that Hadith in mind while distributing sacrificial meat and divide it into three equal (qualitatively and quantitatively) portions. However, these are guidelines and recommendations and do not qualify as Qurbani meat distribution rules.
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Conclusion:
While the Qurbani meat distribution rules are not very stringent. It is permissible to donate all Qurbani meat among deserving people. However, if you choose to divide sacrificial meat in three portions, ensure that the portions are divided equally quantitatively and qualitatively. One portion should be kept for personal consumption. Another portion should be kept reserved for family, friends, and neighbors. While one portion should be distributed among the poor and the needy. Transparent Hands conducts Qurbani according to the Sharia rules. We also follow the best hygiene practices while conducting Qurbani. We distribute sacrificial meat among the most vulnerable segment of the society. Make your Qurbani donations now.
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