We know Qurbani is an act of worship in Islam, and that it is carried out during the time of Eid al-Adha. However, what is Qurbani, and why is it so important? This Qurbani Guide by Emaan Relief hopes to help you understand what Qurbani is, its purpose, and how you can fulfil this important act of worship through Emaan Relief. As we approach Qurbani Eid 2026, it is key to be prepared so that your sacrifice can reach those who need it most.
So, what is Qurbani? In simple terms, Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal for the sake of Allah during Eid al-Adha. The word Qurbani derives from the Arabic root, which means closeness. This relates to the idea that the sacrifice of any animal is ultimately about seeking closeness to Allah. Qurbani is carried out after the morning Eid prayer and can continue to be done over a further three days. The act of Qurbani is more than just about the sacrifice itself; it is about the devotion and obedience to Allah, and the compassion to those in need.
The sincerity and intention of the sacrifice is at the heart of Qurbani. Allah tells in the Quran:
“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.” [Quran 22:37]
To understand exactly what Qurbani is in Islam, we must look at its deeper meaning.
The Ibrahim Qurbani story is what gives us a glimpse into the history of Qurbani and where it all began. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had a dream in which he was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son, Ismael (AS). Despite the hardship behind this task, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) showed his complete faith and trust in Allah and followed what he was told. As Ibrahim (AS) prepared himself to carry out the sacrifice, Allah replaced Ismael (AS) with a ram, rewarding him for his devotion and commitment to the word of Allah.
Allah described this moment in the Quran:
“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice” [Quran 37:107].
The Ibrahim Qurbani story gives us a reminder of the trust we must put in Allah, and the importance of faith above all else.
The importance of Qurbani lies in the benefits that it can bring spiritually and socially. Spiritually, Qurbani strengthens your faith, reminding a believer of sacrifice and submission to Allah. It’s what teaches gratitude and to appreciate all the blessings from Allah.
It has been narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) emphasised the act of Qurbani, saying:
“The son of Adam does not do any action on the Day of Sacrifice more beloved to Allah than shedding blood (of the sacrificial animal)” (Tirmidhi).
Qurbani also helps to feed vulnerable families and communities around the world. Many families get the chance to eat meat during the time of Eid al-Adha due to the donation and distribution of the meat of the sacrificed animal.
By giving a Qurbani donation through Emaan Relief, you are helping to bring joy and dignity to those who face hardship. This makes the importance of Qurbani not just personal, but global.
Qurbani Eid 2026 is expected to fall during the last week of May, depending on the sighting of the moon. Eid al-Adha is a time when Muslims come together to rejoice, coming together in prayer and to celebrate all that they have been blessed with.
It is key to also be prepared when it comes to Qurbani, making sure that your Qurbani donation is given so that the sacrifice is carried out and reaches those in need in time for Eid.
Emaan Relief works in various countries around the world to carry out and distribute the Qurbani meat to families and communities in need.
Donate your Qurbani now and help a vulnerable family join in on the celebrations of Eid.
Understanding the Qurbani cost is a key part of fulfilling your duty. The cost of Qurbani can depend on the country in which the sacrifice is carried out and the type of animal that is sacrificed. In regions where animals are scarce, the cost of the animal is much higher.
Emaan Relief carries the duty to ensure each sacrifice is made to follow the Islamic rules and guidelines, and that the meat is distributed in fairness to the most vulnerable. Your donation goes into supporting families who rely on support during Eid.
When you give your Qurbani donation, you are doing more than fulfilling your duty. You are creating an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. When you choose to give, you are helping spread happiness, nourishment, and dignity.
With Qurbani Eid 2026 approaching, take the time to understand the meaning behind this act. Once you understand what Qurbani is in Islam and the purpose of why the believers take part in it, you can also learn to give with sincerity and purpose.
You can donate your Qurbani through Emaan Relief and help bring joy into someone’s life.
Qurbani in Islam is the sacrifice of an animal in honour of Prophet Ibrahim and his devotion to Allah.
The Qurbani cost depends on the location of the sacrifice and the animal chosen for sacrifice. Emaan Relief offer different options to make it affordable so that the duty of sacrifice can be carried out by the majority.
Yes, you can choose to give a Qurbani donation where the sacrifice will be carried out on your behalf and the meat distributed to those in need.
The Ibrahim Qurbani story is what teaches obedience, faith, and trust in Allah. It’s what reminds Muslims of the importance of sacrifice and devotion, which is at the heart of the practice of Qurbani.
