The Complete Guide to Qurbani Duas

Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) ultimate act of faith when he prepared to sacrifice his son, Ishmael (AS), in obedience to Allah (SWT). This sacred occasion is a time for reflection, gratitude, and sharing blessings. Reciting Qurbani Duas (supplications) is an essential part of this practice, allowing us to connect directly with Allah (SWT), expressing our intentions, and seeking His blessings during the sacrifice.

The recitation of Qurbani Duas and Takbeers (expressions of God’s greatness) holds immense significance during the Eid al-Adha celebrations. These acts not only accompany the sacrifice but also mark the spiritual importance of the entire four-day period, from the 9th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.

Eid gatherings symbolize unity and community strength. Traditionally, Muslims take different routes to and from the prayer ground, symbolizing a departure from routine and a renewed spiritual commitment. Throughout this journey, the Takbeer is recited:

“الله أكبر، الله أكبر، لا إله إلا الله، الله أكبر، الله أكبر، ولله الحمد.”

Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, La ilaha illallah, Wallahu akbar, Allahu akbar wa lillahil hamd

This joyful chant, meaning “Allah is the Greatest. Allah is the Greatest. There is no deity worthy of worship but Him. Allah is the Greatest. Allah is the Greatest. And to Allah belongs all praise,” is recited throughout Eid al-Adha to show our appreciation for Allah.

The intention behind the sacrifice is crucial. Before slaughtering an animal, Muslims reaffirm their dedication to Allah alone with the intention:

The intention, “نويت أن أاضحي للهِ تَعَالى” (Nawaitu An Udhahhi Lillaahi Ta’ala) emphasizes the sacrifice’s sole purpose for the pleasure of Allah.

When performing the sacrifice, specific Duas are recommended. Begin with:

إِنِّي وَجَهتُ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي فَطَرَ السَّمَوتِ وَالْأَرْضَ حَنِيفًا وَ مَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ إِنَّ صَلاتِي وَنُسُكَى وَ مَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِي لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَلَمِينَ ،لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَ بِذلِكَ أُمِرْتُ وَاَنَا اَوَّلُ الْمُسْلِمِينَ .

“Iní wa jjahhtu wajhiya lil-ladhī fatara as-samawati wal-arda hanifan wa maa ana mina al-mushrikeen. Inna salaati wa nusuki wa mahyaaya wa mamaati lillahi rabbil-‘alameen, laa sharika lahu wa bidhalika umirtu wa ana awwalu al-muslimeen.” سورة الانعام

Then say, اللهُم تَقَبَّلُ ((Allahuma Taqabbal) )if sacrificing for yourself, instead of مِنَ (mina) you can say مِنِّىْ, (minni) otherwise after the مِنَ (mina) you can mention the name of the one for whom the sacrifice is being performed.

Then continue by saying,
كَمَا تَقَبَّلْتَ مِن خَلِيلِكَ إِبْرَاهِيمُ عَلَيْهِ السَّلَامُ وَحَبِيبِكَ مُحَمَّدٍ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم

“Kama taqabbalta min khalilik Ibrahim ‘alayhi as-salam wa habibik Muhammadin sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam.”

Saying ” بسم اللہ أللہ أکبر “ “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest) is essential during sacrifice. It honors Allah and clarifies the reason for the sacrifice. The animal should face the Qiblah (direction of the Kaaba) before a quick and merciful slaughter, following Islamic guidelines.

After completing the sacrifice, express gratitude to Allah and make supplications. You may say ” ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّٰهِ “  (All praise is due to Allah) or any dua expressing appreciation for performing Qurbani.

Example dua:

اللهم تقبل مني واجعل هذا عني وعن ذريتي وعن جميع المسلمين

“Al-lahuma taqabbal minni wa-j’al haadha ‘anni wa-‘an dharriyati wa-‘an jami’il-muslimeen”

(O Allah, accept this sacrifice from me and make it (reward) from me, from my offspring, and from all the Muslims)

Qurbani is a profound act of worship and devotion, filled with spiritual significance. Reciting these Duas with sincerity and devotion enhances the spiritual experience of Eid al-Adha. Additionally, consider donating Qurbani to those less fortunate on behalf of your loved ones to spread the blessings.