Qurbani rules for a family

What are the rules of Qurbani?

Qurbani is a beloved act of worship, and is compulsory for every sane adult Muslim who has wealth in excess of his/her needs, according to the Hanafi madhab (schools of thought). In other madhabs, Qurbani is highly recommended.  However, there are many rules and conditions that must be adhered to for the slaughter of the animal to be counted as a Qurbani. 

Qurbanis must be performed in a timely manner over either three or four days from the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, depending on the madhab. 

Animals for Qurbani must be healthy and free from disease, and must be slaughtered according to certain conditions. There are also rules around how to distribute Qurbani meat. Find out more about Qurbani rules here. 

What are the rules of Qurbani for a family?

According to the Hanafi madhab it is compulsory. However, according to all other schools of thought, it is highly rewarding and recommended. The sacred act of Qurbani should be performed by anyone who meets the criteria for Qurbani (of sane mind, a non-traveller and one who has wealth in excess of his/her needs). According to the Hanafi Madhab, Qurbani becomes compulsory when one reaches a mature age – meaning they have reached the age of puberty. 

This means the Qurbani rules for a family, the parents who are eligible to offer Qurbani should provide a share for their children (who are of mature age), as well as for themselves. 

For those who want to offer a sacrifice, it is recommended according to the majority of the scholars that once the new moon of Dhul Hijjah appears (i.e. on the 1st of Dhul Hijjah), you do not remove anything from your hair, nails or skin until you have offered the sacrifice.

How many Qurbani donations per family must be given

According to the Hanafi school of thought, anyone obligated to donate Qurbani in the household must donate a minimum of one Qurbani each. One Qurbani is equivalent to one sheep or goat, while a large animal such as a cow/buffalo/camel is enough Qurbani for seven people.