The term “Qurban” (قربان) in Arabic refers to the act of sacrificial offering or animal sacrifice, particularly performed during the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha. It stems from the root word “qaraba” (قرب), which means “to draw near” or “to approach.” This root conveys the idea of bringing oneself closer to Allah through acts of worship and devotion, such as offering sacrifices as an expression of gratitude and obedience.
Qurban is an expression of gratitude and a means of seeking nearness to Allah, particularly during the auspicious days of Eid al-Adha.
Qurban serves multiple purposes in Islam. Firstly, it commemorates the supreme act of devotion by Prophet Ibrahim PBUH, who willingly obeyed Allah’s command to sacrifice his son, Ismail who also showed readiness to obey Allah. This act of obedience of Prophet Ibrahim and Ismail is mentioned in Surah As-Saffaat verse 102:
Which means: Then when the boy reached the age to work with him, Abraham said, “O my dear son! I have seen in a dream that I ˹must˺ sacrifice you. So tell me what you think.” He replied, “O my dear father! Do as you are commanded. Allah willing, you will find me steadfast.”
Secondly, it symbolizes the readiness of believers to sacrifice their wealth and possessions in obedience to Allah’s commands. This act of sacrifice for the sake of Allah will be rewarded by Allah more than what was sacrificed. Allah mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah verse 261 that:
Which means: The example of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is that of a grain that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains. And Allah multiplies ˹the reward even more˺ to whoever He wills. For Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Knowing.
Finally, Qurban exemplifies the concept of sharing and caring for the less fortunate members of society, as the meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed amongst the needy. Truly, in the wealth of the rich, there are parts set aside for the poor and beggars. Allah mentioned in Surah Adh-Dhariyaat verse 19:
Which means: Truly, in the wealth of the rich, there are parts set aside for the poor and beggars.
The act of Qurban is also mentioned in Surah Al-Kauthar verse 2:
Which means: So pray and sacrifice to your Lord ˹alone˺.
The verse above emphasizes the duality of worship and sacrifice. It underscores the importance of performing salah and offering Qurban as acts of devotion to Allah. Qurban, is not merely a ritualistic practice, but a profound expression of faith and obedience to Allah, symbolizing the believer’s willingness to sacrifice for the sake of pleasing their Lord.
Qurban serves as a tangible manifestation of faith, gratitude, and compassion, reflecting the timeless teachings of Islam and the enduring legacy of Prophet Ibrahim PBUH. As Muslims perform Qurban during Eid al-Adha, let us reflect on the overarching theme of devotion and sacrifice highlighted in Surah Al-Kauthar, striving to emulate the profound faith and obedience exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim PBUH and his family.
